AGSC 5510 - Ecosystem Science and Management (3)

This course reviews the fundamental principles of ecology necessary to develop sustainable ecosystems and manage natural resources. The course will begin with a basic understanding of ecological principles and will transition to discuss ecosystem degradation and management challenges as they relate to ecosystem function. One of the central themes of this course will be identification of ecosystem services and how anthropogenic changes impact the delivery of these services. Emphasis will be placed on ecosystem services and processes that have significance on ecosystem function and restoration at multiple spatial (e.g., local, landscape, regional, global) scales. The course will also focus globally on major ecosystems and will discuss impacts that anthropogenic activities have on the ecological function in these systems.