Course Description
Field studies of current ecological and technological approaches used to measure ecological processes and human disturbances in coastal Georgia ecosystems. Course modules illustrate techniques for coastal field ecology, including habitat and wildlife sampling techniques; habitat monitoring for applied coastal management and restoration; use of technology and GIS tools for coastal planning; cross-sector communication; and professional networking.
Athena Title
Applied Field Ecology
Non-Traditional Format
In this off-campus field program, students will have 2 hours of lecture/discussion each day and 4-5 hours/day of learning content through guided tours, hands-on field studies, and guest lectures.
Prerequisite
ECOL 3300 or ECOL 3500-3500L or ECOL 3505H-3505L or FANR 3200 or GEOG 2011-2011L or permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered summer semester every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
• Conduct ecosystem and community sampling along with the analytical methods used in field ecology and geography to monitor habitat dynamics, with emphasis on coastal Georgia wildlife and landscapes • Learn the basic ecology of the primary coastal terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems of Georgia • Understand the relevance and application of applied management techniques in both functional and anthropogenically disturbed landscapes • Conduct surveys using drones and other technology for GIS mapping analysis techniques used in the fields of ecology and geography and for application to coastal issues • Receive exposure to a diversity of professionals and career paths in ecology, geography, and engineering • Participate in interactive discussions for exposure to scenario-consequence analysis, debates, and other real-world decision making • Learn communication skills for both public and professional sectors • Practice professional development tactics for networking, interviewing, and strategic electronic and in-person professional communications
Topical Outline
• Current issues in coastal ecology and societal perspectives of natural resource conservation and management • Techniques used for monitoring patterns in populations and communities over space and time • Processes and features of coastal habitats in Georgia, including both aquatic and terrestrial ecotypes • Ecological and experimental designs at various spatial scales • Climate change, with emphasis on sea level rise and shoreline management • Application of management practices in coastal aquatic and terrestrial habitats • Infrastructure design and engineering in urbanized and developing areas • Societal components and stakeholders of decision making and scenario-consequence analysis • Communication and networking with peers and other professionals • Building a professional profile electronically and professional environments