NRSM 271GN - Conservation Ecology

Credit(s): 3

A holistic study of natural resource issues with emphasis on global forested ecosystems and human impacts. Topics include: global climate change, deforestation, indigenous cultures, soil erosion, water quality, urban interface, grazing, noxious weeds, wildfire management, game management, threatened and endangered species; including grizzly bears, lynx, wolves, bird and fish species. Non-natural resource majors are encouraged to take this course. (Spring Semester)

Course Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

Identify, articulate, and reflect upon personal beliefs and values as they relate to moral and ethical issues in natural resource conservation.
Explain how management of natural resources on one continent can affect the global environment.
Understand the ecosystem concept and how it relates to natural resources.
Discuss issues of natural resource sustainability and conservation.
Explain the relationship between humans and their use of the environment.
Identify threats to global and local natural resource sustainability.
Apply scientific concepts and methods of inquiry.
Demonstrate awareness of self as a member of a multicultural global community.