Conservation Biology

Catalog description

Six hours of lecture/discussion/lab per week. This course introduces the principles of conservation biology with an emphasis on ecological processes operating at population, community and ecosystem levels of organization. Threats to biological diversity, ranging from species introductions to habitat destruction will be discussed along with conservation solutions ranging from the design of protected areas through conservation legislation. Laboratory sessions will provide in-depth study into simulations of populations, how to gather data on plant and animal species, and investigation of ecological processes affecting conservation strategies. Offered fall of odd numbered years. Prerequisites: grade of C or higher in 251 or grade of C or higher in 161 and ENVS 101. MATH 130 or 230 recommended.