ERTH 490: Independent Study Seminar in Restoration Ecology
Dr. Karen Arabas
Department of Environmental and Earth Sciences
Collins 215, 503-370-6666, karabas@willamette.edu
Office Hours: M 10-11, W 12:30-2p, or by appointment
Dr. Karen Arabas
Department of Environmental and Earth Sciences
Collins 215, 503-370-6666, karabas@willamette.edu
Office Hours: M 10-11, W 12:30-2p, or by appointment
-- W.K. Stevens, in Miracle Under the Oaks
In this independent study of 6-7 students we will examine the theory and practice of the cutting edge environmental practice, restoration ecology. Drawing on current research, we will gather information about the history of restoration ecology, techniques for mending damaged ecosystems, as well as the ethical and political issues invovled. Using this background as a base the class will apply its collective knowledge and skills toward designing a restoration plan at a local site. Through its National Heritage Park Program Marion County, Oregon has identified areas to be restored to their pre-European settlement status. From among these sites we will choose our case study.
As a group we will characterize the pre-settlement and current site conditions. In addition, each student will focus on an aspect of the restoration plan that holds special interest to him/her. Some examples of these might include:
* researching the land-use history of the site;
* describing the geologic/hydrologic characteristics of the site;
* developing a plan for dealing with non-native species at the site; and
* developing a monitoring system for plant/animal populations at the site.
This is a unique opportunity for students to apply their background in ecology, biogeography, biology, environmental science, and/or political science to a local restoration program, while also providing a valuable service to Marion County. Students may find the course also presents an opportunity to explore and develop senior thesis topics, Carson Grant proposals, and SCRP projects.
Prerequisites: Some basic background in environmental science and biology, an interest in conducting field research, the ability to work both independently and in a small group, and (most importantly) energy and enthusiasm for the topic!
Class meeting time: to be determined by participants.
The course will satisfy an upper level natural science requirement for the Environmental Science major.
Stevens, W.K. 1995. Miracle Under The Oaks: The Revival of Nature In America. New York, Pocket Books.
Berger, J.J. (Ed) 1990. Environmental Restoration: Science and Strategies for Restoring The Earth. Washington, D.C. Island Press.
Journal articles from: BioScience, Restoration Ecology, Conservation Biology, Ecological Restoration
Restoration Ecology Web Server at the University of California at Irvine
Center for Restoration Ecology at the University of Wisconsin
Restoration Ecology Program at North Carolina State University
Reading from Restoration Ecology, The New Frontier
Reading from Restoration Ecology: A Synthetic Approach to Ecological Research
Society for Ecological Restoration
Any student eligible for and desiring academic accommodation due to a disability should provide documentation to Disability and Learning Services located in the Bishop Wellness Center within the first two weeks of the semester.