Restoration of Aquatic Ecosystems

Course Code:
ENV 542
Course Group(s):
Degree Applicable, MSNRC: Aquatic Resources Management
Course Description:

Restoration of aquatic ecosystems depend in large measure on the functional capacity of aquatic terrestrial transition zones (ATTZs) and upland land cover in the watershed.  Students will learn how ATTZs along lakes, wetlands, and streams support a high diversity of plants and animals, serve as a refuge or corridor for migratory species, attenuates the flow of soil and water downslope, promotes recharge of groundwater and summer base stream flows, and maintains organic matter production and retention (sequestration).  Students will also learn how conversion of natural upland land cover to human uses tends to convert a watershed from an infiltration, groundwater system to a runoff, surface water system along with the stress it places on ATTZs and water bodies.  This course focuses on the skills needed to a) define benchmark restoration conditions, b) identify the degree to which ecosystem structure and function of ATTZs have been lost, c) identify the effects of altered land cover on watershed process, and d) develop short- and long-term management plans. Prerequisite: ENV 441 or ENV 541.

Credit:
3
Prerequisites:

ENV 441 or ENV 541

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