Field Methods for Environmental Scientists
Biology 241, Geology 241

Time: T/TH 1:30 - 4:30

 

GEOL/BIOL 241 is an interdisciplinary course for students interested in environmental science (e.g. environmental studies, biology, geology or chemistry majors or minors). The course will introduce students to the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for research in environmental science. We will familiarize students with experimental design and statistics and train students in a variety of field and lab techniques including map and compass work, the Global Positioning System (GPS), basic surveying techniques, and water, soil, vegetation and faunal sampling. By the end of the semester, students will have a working knowledge of ArcGIS software and will have experience creating and managing GIS projects.

Further, students will increase their familiarity with local natural habitats and will gain a big-picture understanding of environmental science as an interdisciplinary endeavor. Students interested in developing highly marketable GIS and field skills in the context of environmental research should consider taking this course.

GEOL/BIOL 241 will be team-taught by faculty from several departments and programs including Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physiscs and the Library. Dr. William Rivers will shepard the course during the fall 2005 semester. Enrollment is limited to 10 students and is by permission of the instructor. Introductory coursework in your major field is highly recommended.

The subject matter of this course and the fact that it is being offered as a group effort by a number of different faculty may demand occasional class meetings outside of the regularly scheduled class time. Some flexibility in scheduling will be expected of all students who enroll in the course.

Examples of past student projects:

Bryan Tolcser - Possible Wilderness Areas in Forest Service Land in the Conterminous US

Kira Krumhansl - Estimates of Peak Season Methane Emissions From Palustrian Wetlands in St. Lawrence County, NY

Liam Kean - Investigations in Agricultural Land-Use Along Waterways in St.Lawrence Co., NY

(Note: these are powerpoint posters and the text may not be readable. For more information on these projects contact Bill Olsen)