ECO3011 Winter Ecology

The Winter Ecology course is an in-depth investigation into the physical and biological processes of high elevation/high latitude ecosystems during the winter months. Wintertime offers unique insights into the natural history of organisms and the function of ecosystems that are often not appreciated in warm weather visits to the field. The remarkable arrays of physiological, morphological, and behavioral adaptations that organisms have evolved so that they can live in such harsh environmental conditions are simply more visible in the winter season. Students will investigate the ecology and dynamics of aquatic, woodland, bog, forest, and alpine landscapes through fieldwork, readings and in-class discussions. Students will also study how winter processes play a role in both the growing season of the resident plant life and in shaping the general landscape. Additionally, students will gain understanding for the role that the physical and biological processes of winter play in shaping conservation and management decisions and policy of our natural resources. The primary assessments for this course will include a group project report and presentation on a topic related to winter ecology, exams, written reviews on scientific journal articles covering various topics related to winter ecology, and laboratory activities. Course readings will include textbook and journal readings. In keeping with the nature of the field course, students must come prepared to be outdoors. All students must be physically and mentally prepared to hike and/or snowshoe regardless of weather conditions. Students must have completed three courses at the 2000 level, with grades of C or higher, as prerequisites for this course. Credits: 3.000

WRT 1012 Lecture Min Credits: 3.00 And BIO 1511 Lecture Min Credits: 4.00 Or BIO 1521 Lecture Min Credits: 4.00 Or BIO 1522 Lecture Min Credits: 4.00 Or CHE 1511 Lecture Min Credits: 4.00 Or CHE 1521 Lecture Min Credits: 4.00 Or CHE 1522 Lecture Min Credits: 4.00 Or GEO 1511 Lecture Min Credits: 4.00 Or NSC 1511 Lecture Min Credits: 4. $35.00