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Environmental Science
About the Course
Ideal for students who may be interested in a career in environmental conservation, this course will provide a feeling for the type of work that environmental scientists conduct. The ecology of suburban environments is often overlooked as more work is done in 鈥減ristine鈥� areas. However, despite their higher levels of human influence, the suburbs support a diverse array of plants and animals. This provides a unique stage for study as there are extensive interactions between humans and nature in the suburbs.
To study this dynamic relationship this course will be divided into three sections: plants, animals, and habitats; environmental threats; and habitat management. Each section will include lectures, readings, and extensive field activities.
Objectives
- Identify plants, animals, and ecosystems found throughout the lower Hudson Valley through the use of keys and identification Apps.
- Analyze and understand threats to the suburban environment through field trips.
- Measure the impacts of threats such as invasive species, water pollution, and habitat degradation.
- Gain firsthand experience with the tools and techniques used by environmental scientists to study and protect this unique landscape
Course Enhancements
- Field surveys for rare species.
- Management of invasive plants.
- Habitat restoration projects.
Sample Calendar
Week 1
- Ecology of suburban areas
- Analysis of extensive interactions between humans and nature in the suburbs
- Field study exploration of local environment
Week 2
- Study of environmental threats; and habitat management
- Measure impact of invasive species and water pollution
- Visit to local conservation organization to help address specific environmental threats