Description
An overview of the science of conservation covering 1) the nature of conservation biology and the definition, origin, and global patterns of biodiversity, 2) the threats to biodiversity including habitat destruction and fragmentation, invasive species, overexploitation, and climate change, 3) how these threats affect the genetic and demographic processes of small populations, and 4) the methods used to stop the loss of biodiversity. In lab, the relationship of GPS (Global Positioning System) and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to the field of conservation biology and land management, will be discussed through readings in the primary literature and experienced through class projects. Projects include mapping and data basing the Cedar Crest College Arboretum and assessing habitat use. Students may take only the lecture portion of the course (3 credits) or the lecture and laboratory portion of the course (4 credits). Students majoring in Environmental Conservation must take both lec