Current Course Descriptions

Fundamentals of Ecology (RENR 205)-This course is designed to survey the principles and concepts of ecology for non-majors to meet science core requirements. The course focuses on the relevance of ecology in contemporary society by illustrating ecological concepts with numerous examples. Specific topics include an introduction to ecology, climate and soils, biomes, nutrient cycling, energy flow, productivity and biodiversity.  The overarching philosophy of the course is to produce ecologically literate citizens that can make informed decisions regarding environmental issues confronting the State, Nation and globe.

Physiological Plant Ecology (RLEM 621)-Synthesis and interpretation of physiological mechanisms influencing ecological patterns and processes, including plant acclimation and adaptation in contrasting habitats, abiotic controls on species productivity and distribution, relevant conceptual and experimental approaches, and integration among ecological scales. Course presentation is designed to engage students in a lecture - discussion format. Students are challenged to evaluate the current literature and utilize this information in hypothecial research problems, course examinations.

Rangeland Communities and Ecosystems (RLEM 316)-My portion of this team-taught course is designed to introduce and demonstrate the relevance of physiological plant ecology to rangeland ecosystems and natural resource management. Whole plant photosynthesis, photosynthetic pathways, plant water relations and patterns of species distribution are emphasized. The intent is to instill students with a sufficient conceptual understanding to apply this information in various ecosystems and applications. Course presentation is based on an interactive format.

Academic Outreach

Academic Outreach represents an important opportunity to transfer contemporary research information to individuals and organizations that directly influence land management decisions. Demand for the integration and application of technical information has increased in response to the growing amount of research information that has targeted more complex natural resource issues. An ecological course is currently being offered to personnel of the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) to address this demand.

NRCS RANGELAND ECOLOGY COURSE II ECOLOGICAL SITE DESCRIPTIONS: DEVELOPMENT AND INTERPRETATION

COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course addresses the development and interpretation of Ecological Site Descriptions (ESDs). ESDs represent the primary procedure for evaluation and management of rangeland ecosystems. Applications, limitations, and recent developments within state-and-transition models, ecological thresholds, and resilience-based indicators will be emphasized. Procedures and approaches for the development of effective and complete ESDs will also be discussed. This course is designed for participants with prior educational background and field experience in rangeland ecology and management. Participants that have responsibilities for designing, revising and interpreting ecological site descriptions are especially encouraged to take this course.  

The course is designed as a blend of instructor presentations, participant presentations, and group discussion addressing the development, application, and interpretation of ESD’s. Participants are encouraged to bring recently completed ESDs or those currently under construction, also with supporting information and photos, for course discussion and critique. This will promote understanding of effective ESD construction and produce tangible products that are directly relevant to the professional responsibilities of the participants.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Participants will be provided with the opportunity to:
1) gain additional understanding of the development and interpretation of ecological site descriptions, including state-and-transition models and ecological thresholds,
2) apply concepts to ESDs recently completed or drafted by participants,
3) incorporate resilience-based indicators into ESD’s, and

4) explore approaches for development of effective and consistent ESDs.