This class is designed to train future natural resource professionals in developing and implementing programs to inventory, monitor and assess plant and animal components of the environment and to effectively interpret and communicate the results of these efforts.

Objectives:

1. Gain skills in problem formulation, generating study objectives, and developing hypotheses related to inventory and monitoring (I & M)
2. Understand key issues in study design
3. Understand general concepts and methods in data collection
4. Gain field experience using basic tools of ecological/resource management data collection
5. Further refine quantitative and communication (verbal and written) skills

We will focus on existing global, regional, and local monitoring programs designed to assess the condition and trend of ecosystems at different scales. We will look at spatial components and how new technologies like remote sensing and GIS can be and are used for landscape monitoring. We will also address risk assessment and evaluate existing programs.

At the end of this class we expect that students will be adept at problem solving techniques as well as understand the concepts pertinent to monitoring and assessment of natural resources. As a consequence of these expectations, students will develop analytical, writing, and communication skills that are vital to natural resource management.

Instructors:

Teaching Assistants:

Chris McGinty
chris@gis.usu.edu

Alexander Hernandez
alex@gis.usu.edu