ERM 450 - Wetland Conservation

Instructor:

Dr. Robert D. Shannon (rds13@psu.edu)
204 ASI Bldg.
Phone: 865-7153

Time and location (Fall 2005):

Tuesday & Thurs. 11:15 - 12:30 PM
210 Thomas Bldg.

Prerequisites (or concurrent):

ERM 300 or WFS 309

Course Overview:

Wetlands are unique ecosystems, differing in many ways from both terrestrial and aquatic environments. They provide values and functions to society that are being increasingly recognized, although these functions and values still remain difficult to quantify. The study of wetlands is interdisciplinary, requiring background knowledge in science, management and policy disciplines. This course explores the variety of wetland types and functions, and emphasizes the diverse hydrological, biological, chemical, and physical interactions that occur within wetlands. As wetlands are becoming recognized as valuable assets in the landscape, issues surrounding wetland management and regulation have taken on increased importance; we will cover these topics as well. Constructed wetlands are recognized as a cost-effective means of treating domestic, agricultural, mining and urban wastes. This course will also address constructed wetlands in the context of their effectiveness, design characteristics, management and regulation.

Text:

Mitsch, W.J. and J.G. Gosselink. 2000. Wetlands, 3^rd ed. J. Wiley & Sons, Inc., N.Y. 920 pp.

Readings:

The broad-ranging scope of wetland studies encompasses many disciplines. Thus from time to time we will make use of other readings and references, including web sites, journal articles, special reports, and others. These will be available on the class website or in class handouts.