Courses
All courses carry 3 credits unless otherwise specified.
Building and Construction Technology
BCT 511 Clean Energy Corps (2nd sem)
Students in the UMass Clean Energy Corps will work in teams with energy engineers and other staff of the UMass Clean Energy Extension to provide energy analysis and high-level energy audits to Massachusetts cities and towns. We will collect and analyze municipal energy data, conduct walk through and instrumented energy audits on site for some facilities, and provide guidance to help municipalities cut their energy consumption by at least 20%. Students will learn a variety of data analysis and building diagnostic techniques as well as gain experience working with municipal clients.
BCT 520 Energy and Buildings (2nd sem)
An introduction to building energy use focusing on the minimization of energy costs and dependence on non-renewable fossil fuel sources through the implementation both time honored passive design strategies and effective building envelope construction practices. The course also introduces students to the fundamentals of building system loads and building annual energy consumption calculations providing the necessary metricized evaluation of a building’s energy and associated climate impacts in relation to other buildings of similar types and program in similar climates. This is a seminar course that will rely on a combination of lecture, reading materials, and a field trip exploring the methods and materials necessary to reduce a building’s environmental impact. Pre-requisite: Undergraduate students who have taken BCT 211, BCT 311, or similar are eligible to enroll. Open to all graduate students. Prerequisites: for undergraduates only, BCT 211.
BCT 521 Environmental Control Systems (2nd sem)
with lab. This course is intended for those who wish to learn about building energy and environmental systems from a both a traditional and a sustainable design perspective. Students will be introduced to the basics of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. Through a combination of lecture, reading materials, guest lectures, and field trips they will analyze the heating and cooling loads of commercial buildings and learn how to introduce these systems into existing buildings and design these systems for high performance building.Students will learn to use a state-of-the-art building energy modeling tool, eQUEST (available for free from Department of Energy) to calculate and optimize whole building energy loads. The goal is to explore key design decisions such as building orientation and form along with system choices to calculate heating and cooling loads through modeling and simulation. The lab component for this class introduces students to technical and non-technical aspects of whole building energy simulation during building design, retrofitting and maintenance. Pre-requisites: Graduate Students BCT 520; Undergraduate Students. BCT 211, BCT 311 or instructor permission. You must have access to a laptop for the lab. Credit, 4.
BCT 540 Design of Wood Structures (1st sem)
Provides students with a fundamental understanding of design principles for design of individual wood components including beams, columns, trusses, wood/steel connections, and sheathing.
BCT 550 Construction Scheduling and Project Control (both sem)
Introduces concepts of project management for design and construction including: initiation, planning, implemenatation, monitoring, control, closeout, documentation, scope, budget and scheduling, teamwork and communication, contracts and negotiation and risk management. Prerequisites: BCT 204, BCT 313, and BCT 353.
BCT 596 Independent Study (both sem)
Credit, 1-6.
BCT 597V Safety in Construction (2nd sem)
With construction being one of the most dangerous occupations, workplace safety is crucial for every successful building project. This course teaches basic safety concepts through guest lectures and the self-guided study of OSHA principles. Students acquire the 10-hour OSHA safety training (and card) as part of this course (at a small, additional cost), which is the basic requirement for any work on construction sites.
Natural Resources Conservation
NRC 526 Silviculture (1st sem, even yrs)
Silvicultural practices used to manage forests for timber production, wildlife habitat improvement, and watershed protection. Special focus on southern New England but techniques apply to forests throughout the world. Lab involves developing silvicultural plans for project areas. Prerequisite: NRC 212 or equivalent. Credit, 4.
NRC 528 Forest and Wetland Hydrology (1st sem, odd yrs)
Hydrologic structure and function of forest, wetland, and agricultural ecosystems. Changes in water flow and quality associated with land and resource use. Management approaches to prevent or reverse adverse environmental impacts. Mr. Barten
NRC 534 Forest Measurements (1st sem, odd yrs)
With lab. Quantification and assessment of resource variables, sampling theory and design of forest inventories and other resource survey techniques, field exercises in resource inventory, statistical analysis of field data. Prerequisite: introductory statistics. Credit, 4. Mr. Catanzaro
NRC 540 Forest Resources Management (2nd sem, even yrs)
Use of forests to meet multiple objectives. Summary of forest history, policies, programs, and review of traditional and contemporary forest management principles and practices. Examples, site visits and reports, interaction with practitioners and landowners, term project and presentation. Prerequisites: NRC 261, 526 or equivalents; NRC 521 and 597 desirable. Credit, 4. Mr. Barten
NRC 541 Urban Forest Management (1st sem, even yrs)
Use of community and urban forests to meet multiple objectives. Summary of forest history, policies, and programs. Review of traditional and contemporary forest management principles and practices. Case examples, site visits, and reports. Iteractions with practitioners and landowners. Emphasis on community and urban forestry issues. Mr. Bloniarz
NRC 547 Global Change Ecology (1st sem, odd yrs)
As a species, humans have a remarkable footprint on global ecosystems. We change land cover, alter water and nutrient cycling, introduce non-native species, harvest natural resources, and change the global climate. This class will explore the impacts of these changes on a variety of ecosystems, as well as consider how natural resource management can improve ecological resistance and resilience to change. Ms. Bradley
NRC 564 Wildlife Habitat Management (1st sem)
Wildlife-habitat relationships illustrated through basic field zoology and natural history, evolutionary biology, and ecological theory. Explores the dynamics and management of various habitats in North America and elsewhere. Topics include wildlife ecology, habitat classification, resource utilization, impacts on humans, and management techniques. Prerequisite: NRC 261 or equivalent. Credit, 4. Ms. Warren
NRC 565 Wildlife Population Dynamics and Management (1st sem)
Basic techniques and concepts of the management and population dynamics of wildlife populations; emphasis on estimating animal population parameters, development of population growth models, and principles of population management. Includes field and laboratory techniques for estimating population parameters for wildlife. Prerequisite: NRC 261 or RES-ECON 211 or Introductory Statistics. Credit, 4. Mr. Jackson
NRC 566 Restoration Ecology (2nd sem)
Restoration ecology is the returning of damaged ecosystems or particular properties of a desired state of ecological health. For purposes of this course, this field can be divided into four topics: 1) remediation of damaged sites where no return to original conditions is possible (e.g. strip-mined sites), 2) restoration of missing natural processes (fire, flood cycles, etc.), 3) return of missing native species or protection of declining native species, and 4) elimination or management of damaging invasive species. Skills for preparation of goals and implementation plans for individual sites will be developed. At the landscape level, knowledge of wildlife restoration, as well as use of tools for management of damaging invasive species (including especially the role of biological control) will be explored. Ms. Stinson
NRC 568 Wetland Soils (2nd sem)
A detailed examination of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils occurring in wetland environments. Applications of this information critical to wetland restoration efforts seeking to replicate the biochemical environment of natural wetland substrates. Additional emphasis on the identification of hydric soil characteristics necessary for wetland delineation. Catalogue Prerequisites: ENVIRSCI 364 or 564H or permission of instructor. Credit, 2. Ms. Henson
NRC 570 Ecology of Fish (1st sem, odd yrs)
With lab. Advanced course that examines the interactions of fish with their environment. Topics include: biological systems, physiology, growth dynamics, feeding adaptations, reproductive biology, mating systems, predator-prey systems, life history strategies, population dynamics and community structure. Students taking the course are expected to be skilled in reading scientific journal articles, have an understanding of basic fish conservation, and be comfortable with student directed learning and public speaking/seminar-style classes. Prerequisite:NRC 260, two semesters biology, and one semester ecology (or equivalent) em>Credit, 4. Mr. Danylchuk
NRC 571 Fisheries Science and Management (1st sem, even yrs)
Introduction to the principles of fish stock assessment, with emphasis on harvest modeling and forecasting techniques. Implications of overfishing and habitat degradation. Prerequisite: NRC 470. Credit, 4. Mr. Jordaan
NRC 572 Insects and Diseases of Forests and Shade Trees (2nd sem, odd yrs)
Ecology, biology and control of insects which attack shade trees, forests and forest products. A brief introduction to insects; attention to the more important forest and shade tree insects.
NRC 575 Case Studies in Conservation (2nd sem)
Outside speakers from a wide variety of private and public conservation organizations present case studies in conservation and land protection. Seminar presentations supplemented by class discussion and student development of a case.
NRC 576 Water Resources Management and Policy (1st sem, even yrs)
Topics in water resources including institutions, law, economics, politics, infrastructure, planning, analysis, and sustainability. Case studies, lectures, and exercises on various topics from around the world. Mr. Randhir
NRC 577 Ecosystem Modeling and Simulation (1st sem, odd yrs)
Systems modeling and analysis used to understand the complexities of natural systems. System representations, modeling, experimentation, optimization, and policy modeling. Computer modeling using Stella and GIS. Mr. Randhir
NRC 578 Watershed Science and Management (2nd sem)
Concepts in watershed systems, with integration of biotic, abiotic, and socio-economic components for conservation and management. Transdisciplinary introduction to watershed-based ecosystem management and policy. Taught in-class using computer modeling, case studies, and exercises. Mr. Randhir
NRC 579 Cree Culture, Natural Resources and Sustainability
Interdisciplinary course combines readings, documentary films, and group discussions, a winter camping trip with a Cree family in northern Quebec, and an essay to explore intersections of: our culture, Cree culture, natural resources, and issues of sustainability, stewardship of the environment, and social justice. Mr. Barten
NRC 580 Conservation Genetics (1st sem, even yrs)
With lab. The genetic basis for solving biological problems in conservation including the genetics of small populations and the application of molecular genetic techniques to conservation problems. Credit, 4
NRC 581 Wetlands Assessment and Field Techniques
This course fosters an understanding of Massachusetts wetlands regulations and techniques for wetlands assessment with an emphasis on wildlife habitat evaluation. Assessments covered include: wetlands classification and mapping, functional assessment, condition assessment, wetland delineation, vernal pool identification, and wildlife habittat evaluation. Mr. Jackson
NRC 585 Introduction to GIS (both sem)
Introduces students to the construction, display, and analysis of spatial information using Geographic Information Systems. Hands-on use of ArcGIS on a PC platform. Mr. Bowlick, Ms. Bradley
NRC 587 Digital Remote Sensing (2nd sem, odd yrs)
Computer processing of digital images as a means of obtaining information about natural resources. LANDSAT images primarily used. Image processing, classification, and image enhancement techniques discussed and applied.
NRC 589 Adapting to Climate Change: Theories, Policy, & Action (2nd sem)
Introduction to the policies and politics of climate change adaptation with a focus on the response of human systems in both the developed and developing world context. Overview of climate projections and potential hazards to socio-ecological systems. Examination of adaptation strategies, policies directing responses, knowledge and factors that facilitate or stymie action, maladaptation. Discussion of debates on the role of international climate community; state and non-state actors; climate justice and how to reach the most vulnerable. Ms. Milman
NRC 590C Clean Energy and Climate Policy in Massachusetts
Over the past 20 years, Massachusetts has evolved as a leader in clean energy policy. This course will provide direct insights into the brief history of these policy developments, including policy objectives, legislative and regulatory roles, tradeoffs of costs and benefits, the use of analytical methods to establish program design, and stakeholder perspectives and engagement. The course will explore the market and economic development and challenges that have resulted from the policies, and will consider the latest policy proposals that will impact our energy future. Mr. Breger
NRC 590A Advanced Arboriculture (2nd sem)
In depth coverage of pruning, cabling, rigging, and tree risk assessment primarily from a mechanical, rather than a biological, perspective. Introductory material, including the ANS A.300 and Z.133 standards as well as the International Society of Arboriculture's Best Management Practices (BMP) are covered in NRC 232 and NRC 305, which are prerequisites for this course. (NRC 305 may be taken concurrently) Emphasis is on primary literature. Mr. Kane
NRC 590AE Aquatic Ecology (1st sem, even years)
Advanced ecology course that examines the interplay between aquatic organisms and their physical, chemical and biological environment, with an emphasis on freshwater lakes and streams. Students will learn basic concepts, ecological theory, and methods in limnology, and apply them to understand impacts of human activities and management on aquatic ecosystems. Course is intended for undergraduate students in Natural Resouce Conservation, Environmental Science, and Biology and graduate students. Laboratories include field trips. Catalog Requisites: Two semesters biology, one semester chemistry, one semester ecology, or permission of instructor. Ms. Roy
NRC 590D Marine Conservation Biology & Policy
Focus on the applied science and policy frameworks underlying maintenance of the oceans’ biodiversity and management of marine resources. Students will learn how key properties of marine species and ecosystems are unique or shared with terrestrial ecosystems, and how these shape both major threats and innovative solutions for managing species and building ecological resilience. Ms. Komoroske
NRC 590IE Invasion Ecology
Invasion ecology explores the introduction, establishment, and impact stages of non-native, invasive species. We will consider how invasions differ across all taxonomic groups, from plants to fish to pathogens. Ms. Bradley
NRC 590M Marine Ecology
Advanced course in marine ecology, focused on how organisms interact with the ocean environment. Includes Earth's major marine ecosystems, ecological processes that create biological patterns, field techniques in local New England coastal systems. Links marine ecology to other disciplines such as chemistry, physics, and geography and addresses invasions, nutrient enrichment, and habitat destruction. Mr. Cheng
NRC 590PH Pollinators: Ecology and Conservation (2nd sem, even yrs)
Exploration of coevolution between flowers and their pollinators, how pollination is fundamental to ecosystem sustainability, and how bees anchor pollination services. In-depth coverage of the groups of pollinators, life history/behavior, floral ecology, threats to pollinators, and recent issues in bee decline. Credit, 4 Ms. Averill
NRC 590RE Restoration Ecology (2nd sem, odd years)
Restoration ecology is the returning of damaged ecosystems or particular properties to a desired state of ecological health. For purposes of this course, this field can be divided into four topics: (1) remediation of damaged sites where no return to original conditions is possible (e.g., strip mined sites), (2) restoration of missing natural processes (fire, flood cycles, etc), (3) return of missing native species or protection of declining native species, and (4) elimination or management of damaging invasive species. Skills for preparation of goals and implementation plans for individual sites will be developed. At the landscape level, knowledge of wildlife restoration and conservation, as well as use of tools for management of damaging invasive species (including especially the role of biological control) will be explored. Prerequisite: Introductory coursework in biology/ecology. Mr. Vandriesche
NRC 592B Readings in GIS (1st sem, even yrs)
In this course, students will read and discuss journal articles about applications of GIS. In addition, students will write an annotated bibliography about a GIS topic of their choice. Mr. Bowlick
NRC 597B Applications of Unmanned Aerial Systems (2nd sem)
This lecture and lab course is intended to guide students in gaining proficiency in a set of skills that will enable them to effectively plan and fly Unmanned Aerial Systems missions to produce accurate data products from aerial imagery, and be able to analyze those products. Classroom and lab instruction covers mission planning, piloting, photogrammetry and data analysis of UAS-acquired imagery. Various sensors are used including true color (RGB), multi-spectral (RGB, Rededge, Near Infra-red), and Long-wave IR (thermal). Students undertake a project in teams. Example projects include: Evaluating building heat loss; Landcover mapping; Topographic or water volume analysis. Mr. Schweik
NRC 597CB Conservation and Animal Behavior (2nd sem, odd yrs)
Exploration of how animal behavior is relevant to wildlife protection. Focal topics are habitat choice, predation, competition, sexual selection, mating systems, communication, and cooperation. Field methods and experimental approaches in applied animal behavior will be highlighted. Ms. Averill
NRC 597DA Building Info Data & Analysis GIS
The integration of GIS with traditional CAD and BIM (Building Information Modeling) comes from a need to use building-specific information in a bigger spatial context for queries and GIS analysis. Geospatial information can be used in future urban planning techniques when it comes to designing and planning new buildings and act as a management system for associated data. When used together effectively, computer-aided design (DAD) and geospatial information systems (GIS) can streamline decision making and reducing inefficiencies in the design, planning, and productions of critical operations in the engineering workplace. A growing number of engineering tasks in numerous fields now require the knowledge and use of GIS databases and tools. This class will cover introductory topics on possible Cad & GIS integration methods and techniques as well as provide hands on lab time working with the software towards an end of semester project. Mr. Schreyer.
NRC 597EC Analytical Methods for Energy and Climate Policy
The course will introduce students to analytical methods applicable to the evaluation of energy and climate problems and policy solutions. The methods include ethical analysis, spreadsheet analysis, life-cycle analysis, optimization and systems analysis. Mr. Breger
NRC 597FE Fire Ecology & ECo-System Management
This seminar course explores the science of fire ecology and ecosystem management. It focuses on fire as a management tool, including the effects of fire on plant and animal communities, fire weather, fuel types and models, and fire behavior. We will examine the history of wildland fire in New England with optional field trips to investigate the signs of past fires. Students will develop a fire burn plan as part of the course. Mr. Locascio
NRC 597GW WebGIS (2nd sem)
Students in WebGIS will explore web-based applications in geographic information science. Mr. Bowlick
NRC 597LE Landscape Ecology & Conservation (2nd sem)
An introduction to the discipline of landscape ecology, in both theory and practice, with specific applied examples related to the New England landscape. Landscape ecology focuses on the interplay between scale, spatial pattern, and ecological processes; specifically, how to characterize spatial pattern, where it comes from, why it matters, and how it changes through time and/or scale. Theory and application will weave together throughout the course and students will use their knowledge of landscape ecology theory to better understand practices in land conservation, resource management, and urban planning. Students will also build skills in ecological spatio-temporal data analysis and modeling to analyze patterns and processes through space and time, and gain an understanding of the power and limitations of these techniques. Ms. MacLean
NRC 597LP Land Protection Tools and Techniques
Most of the land that we rely on to provide public benefits such as wildlife habitat, clean water, climate change mitigation, and local food and wood is privately owned and not protected from development. In order to ensure the future of these benefits and many others, we need to ensure a critical amount of land stays as natural ecosystems. This course will focus on permanent land protection tools and techniques to maintain the land in its natural state, policies that encourage land protection, landowner decisions about conserving their land, and maintaining the conservation values after the land has been protected.
NRC 597Q Environmental Leadership in Practice
This course is designed for any graduate student or motivated upperclassmen with an interest in building a foundation in environmental leadership. Students will build a leadership foundation by learning about their leadership and communication style and strengths and then practice leadership skills aided by readings, interactive discussion and coursework. Students will have the opportunity to engage with environmental leaders from around the Commonwealth as they present their leadership challenges, offering students the opportunity to aid in active solution development. In addition to gaining a foundation in theory, students will hear and engage in honest dialogue to discover what they can learn and how they can grow as an emerging environmental leader.
Environmental Conservation
ECO 601 Research Concepts in Environmental Conservation (1st sem)
Introduction to the research process in the science of environmental conservation. Focus on research philosophy, concepts, and design, progressing from development of hypotheses, questions and proposals, to grants and budgeting, to delivery of such research products as reports, publications, and presentations. Ms. Roy
ECO 602 Analysis of Environmental Data (1st sem)
Lecture. Introduction to the basic statistical concepts critical to the proper use and understanding of statistics in environmental conservation. Prepares students for subsequent Environmental Conservation (ECO) courses in statistical modeling. Covers foundational concepts in statistical modeling and lays out the ‘landscape’ of statistical methods in environmental conservation. Required of all master’s-level ECo students.
ECO 604 Forest Stand Dynamics (2nd sem, odd yrs)
The applied study of forest successions, including ecological disturbances, regeneration, and development to the old-growth stage. Consideration of how silvicultural techniques are used to control stand dynamics to meet timber, wildlife habitat, and other management objectives.
ECO 605 Urban Forest Management (2nd sem,)
A multidisciplinary introduction to urban and community forest management. Includes a team studio project that identifies a community forest problem for which the class develops an interdisciplinary solution. Mr. Kane
ECO 610 Offshore Wind Energy - Technology, Resources, Grid Integration, and Trends (1st sem)
Offshore wind farms are engineering projects, and it is vital for all professionals who work in the wind energy industry to have an understanding of the underlying science and engineering considerations which drive the siting of offshore wind farms. This course is designed for students without an engineering or scientific background, but provides the engineering context and basic scientific concepts to explain, among other things, the sources of wind energy, how wind turbines work, and why wind farms are sited where they are. The on-line course will consist of recorded lectures with slides, assigned readings, problem sets, and two exams. Students will engage with the instructor and fellow students through robust on-line discussion sessions and postings. Mr. Breger
ECO 611 Offshore Wind Energy – Environmental Impacts, Siting, Permitting, and Stakeholder Engagement (2nd sem)
Before construction begins on an offshore wind farm, there is a rigorous process of assessing ecological and environmental impacts, obtaining any Federal and State permits, and engaging with stakeholders. This process is expensive, and vital to the successful installation of an offshore wind farm. A thorough understanding of these procedures is essential to all professionals in the offshore wind industry. This course is designed to guide the student through this process, from the time the potential offshore wind development site has been identified, until construction is complete and the wind farm is operational. The on-line course will consist of recorded lectures with slides, assigned readings, problem sets, and two exams. Students will engage with the instructor and fellow students through robust on-line discussion sessions and postings. Ms. Bates
ECO 612 Offshore Wind Energy – Project Economics, Deployment, and Business Logistics (summer)
Construction of an offshore wind farm raises significant financing and insurance issues, and requires a well-established local workforce, supply chain, and infrastructure. Wind industry professionals must understand this complex process to make informed decisions on planning and construction of offshore wind development. This course will touch on the critical aspects of getting an offshore wind farm up and running, from the planning stages until construction is complete and the wind farm is operational. The on-line course will consist of recorded lectures with slides, assigned readings, problem sets, and two exams. Students will engage with the instructor and fellow students through robust on-line discussion sessions and postings. Ms. Bates
ECO 620 Studies in Building Information Modeling (2nd sem, summer)
Various aspects of digital 3D building modeling with focus on data-based digital design, integrated analyses, interdisciplinary design, and fabrication planning. Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Mr. Schreyer
ECO 621 Landscape Ecology (2nd sem, even yrs)
Introduction to the evolving discipline of landscape ecology, with emphasis on the theoretical underpinnings. Focus on ecological scaling; landscape structure; agents of landscape structure; consequences of landscape structure to populations, communities, and ecosystem processes; landscape dynamics; and landscape management. Emphasis on modeling. Prerequisite: graduate standing in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology or Wildlife and Fisheries Conservation, Forestry, or consent of instructor. Credit, 4.
ECO 622 Conservation Biology (2nd sem, odd yrs)
Seminar reviewing the ecological principles of conservation biology and strategies used to conserve biological diversity. Emphasis on ecological, community, and population processes. Topics include conservation genetics, population demography and viability analyses, and insular ecology, including edge effects, habitat fragmentation, connectivity, and reserve design. Journal articles provide case histories for examining conservation strategies. Ms. Warren
ECO 632 Applied Multivariate Statistics for Environmental Conservation (2nd sem, odd yrs)
With lab. Provides natural resource scientists with a conceptual and practical working understanding of the classic multivariate statistical techniques, as well as a framework for choosing the most appropriate technique given the question of interest and the properties of the data set. Emphasis on analyzing real data sets using ordination (unconstrained and constrained), cluster analysis (nonhierarchical and hierarchical), discriminate analysis, classification and regression trees, and a variety of other nonparametric procedures. Credit, 4.
ECO 634 Analysis of Environmental Data Lab
This laboratory course introduces the statistical computing language R and provides hands-on experience using R to screen and adjust data, examine deterministic functions and probability distributions, conduct classic one- and two-sample tests, utilize bootstrapping and Monte Carlo randomization procedures, and conduct stochastic simulations for ecological modeling. This lab focuses on learning the R language and statistical computing environment, which serves as the computing platform for all ECo statistics courses; emphasis is on learning fundamental R skills that will allow students to grow and expand their expertise in subsequent courses or on their own. Prerequisites: concurrent or prior enrollment in ECO 602 Analysis of Environmental Data Lecture or consent of instructor.
ECO 675 Ecological Economics and Sustainability
Course aims to study advanced topics in ecological economics and sustainability. Students will be exposed to selected topics in the field through in-depth review and publishable reporting. Mr. Randhir
ECO 678 Advanced Watershed Science and Management (2nd sem, even yrs)
This course will cover advanced topics in the field of watershed science. Students will gain in-depth knowledge and scientific understanding of emerging topics. Prerequisites: NRC 578 Watershed Science and Management or course equivalent. Mr. Randhir
ECO 690P Public Engagement and Communication
This course will provide students with a deeper understanding of various ways in which scientists can effectively engage and communicate with the public. Topics covered include models of public engagement, science-society interaction, and practical communication skills building. Mr. Markowitz
ECO 690E Environmental Conflict and Collaborative Policy
An overview of the causes, dynamics, and consequences of natural resource and environmental conflicts. Analysis of the forms of natural resource and environmental conflict. Critical examination of the theories and assumptions surronding the study of environmental conflict and conflict resolution. Ms. Milman
ECO 691 Communicating Science
Seminar on forms of written and oral communication in environmental conservation: the preparation of scientific papers, news articles, and conference abstracts, and the presentation of scientific papers, news interviews, and more. Credit, 1.
ECO 691A Current Research in Environmental Conservation (both sem)
Seminar with invited outside speakers and University faculty presenting current research on topics in environmental conservation. Credit, 1. Mr. Butler
ECO 691E Ecological Responses to Climate Change
This seminar will discuss recent and emerging topics of how climate change is impacting fish, wildlife and related natural resources. Students will become familiar with the latest literature and scientific approaches on ecological responses to climate change as well as management, conservation and adaptation strategies being implemented to decrease risk and vulnerability to climate and interactive stressors. Potential topics include climate niche, distribution and occupancy modeling, field surveys, and other techniques used to collect and analyze species responses to changing environmental conditions in terrestrial, aquatic and ocean ecosystems. this is a discussion based class; topics will be selected based on the specific interests of participants. Ms. Morelli
ECO 692C Sustainable Building Systems Seminar (both sem)
Our Built Environment has a substantial impact on energy and material resources as well as being a critical determinant of health, comfort, and productivity for occupants. Additionally, there is the negative carbon impact on our environment; beginning with the embodied energy incorporated into the construction of a building followed by the lifelong accumulation of a building’s operational energy. In response, there are multiple subsets of disciplines and entities adopting green, sustainable criteria for new construction and renovations. This course offers students an opportunity to be exposed through lecture and discussion to many of these multiple disciplines. Required Lectures (4) and Elective Lectures (4) serve as a dynamic sampling of the multiple disciplines necessary to create or modify the Built Environment. Lectures presented by various educators, researchers, and practitioners; experts in their fields will provide students with a broadened perspective, which will help foster critical thinking and provide a more expansive view of the Built Environment. Mr. Fiocchi
ECO 692S Readings in Sustainable Building Systems (1st sem)
Students in this course will read and discuss current publications that span the entire field of our graduate program. Regularly scheduled discussions will be led by each member of our graduate faculty. This course provides an overview of the breadth and an introduction to the depth of research in our field and serves as a primer for all our graduate students. Department Faculty
ECO 696 Independent Study
Credit, 1-6.
ECO 697AE Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (2nd sem)
Protection and restoration of aquatic ecosystems and their watersheds. Includes scientific, social, economic, and policy issues related to aquatic resource threats, and multidisciplinary conservation strategies. Discussions, case studies, and projects. Ms. Roy
ECO 697B Invasion Biology
The physiological and life history characteristics of invasive species; the characteristics of habitats that affect their susceptibility to invasion; and the effects of invasion on biodiversity and ecosystem processes. Ms. Bradley
ECO 697CP Conservation in Practice
Students will learn from and interact with professionals who are working in the field of conservation and management of natural resources. Each week a different representative will discuss their mission and the role they play in their everyday jobs to address their goals. Students will learn about the inner workings of major conservation agencies and pursue ways to interact with professionals outside of the classroom.
ECO 697DL Sustainable Building and LEED Certification ( both sem, summer)
A hands-on, multi-media learning environment in which students expand their knowledge of sustainability in the built world. All students participate online; optional attendance on face-to-face field trips to National Grid Headquarters and Artist for Humanity, and at lectures from specialists in the field. Those students who opt not to attend the face-to-face meetings view video recordings of the field trips and the guest lectures. A LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) preparation component integrated into the structure of the course answers an industry need for LEED accredited professionals in the fields of construction, engineering, and architectural design. Mr. Kim
ECO 697I Information Technologies in the Public and Non-Profit Sectors (2nd sem)
Discussion of information technology management issues in public and non-profit organizations. Web system development, information technology planning, and relational database applications. Mr. Schweik
ECO 697J Diadromous Fisheries Ecology and Conservation (1st sem, even yrs)
This course is a graduate-level seminar format course reviewing the biology, ecology, evolution, and management of diadromous fishes. These fishes are unique in their migrations and behaviors, using a variety of aquatic habitats and experiencing unique challenges in terms of energetics, physiology, and life history strategy. An emphasis is placed on special management concerns and conservation with respect to habitat loss, barriers to migration, and restoration of depleted or extirpated populations. The course is team-taught by ECO faculty and adjuncts from the USGS S.O. Conte Anadromous Fish Research Laboratory, and other management agencies. The format is lecture/discussion, with extensive weekly readings. Mr. Haro
ECO 697K GIS Programming (2nd sem)
This course will cover a number of methods and applications in GIS, including automation methods of repetitive or complex tasks using Model Builder and Python scripting. Mr. Bowlick
ECO 697PS Perspectives on Sustainability (1st sem)
Is "sustainability" a passing fad, or will it be an enduring feature of our future? How can economic growth be balanced against ecological damage? This course examines severalviews of sustainability, starting with a historical examination of the conditions that have brought us to this point. We review common tools used in sustainability science (particularly systems analysis and scenario planning), explore key sustainability themes through case studies (food systems, water, energy), and integrate all the components of the course by carrying out a sustainability assessment of several anthropogenic systems. Mr. Nicolson
ECO 697RG Readings in Conservation Genetics (1st sem, odd yrs)
Conservation genetics now plays an important role in many aspects of conservation. This course explores a wide variety of conservation issues. For each topic we will outline the conservation issues and then explore what a genetics/evolutionary perspective adds to our understanding of that issue. We will read and discuss papers from the recent literature on topics such as: individual genetic identification, inbreeding/outbreeding depression, population viability, metapopulations and fragmentation, units of conservation, hybridization, conservation breeding, invasive species, and climate change.
ECO 697RR Retrocommissioning and Retrofitting Existing Buildings for Energy Efficiency (2nd sem, even year)
Seminar in which graduate students function as a consulting firm to explore, diagnose, and model one campus building and its operation in detail and produce a comprehensive report with realistic recommendations for dramatic reductions in energy usage at reasonable cost. Credit, 2. Mr. Weil
ECO 697S Intermediate Statistics for Environmental Conservation (2nd sem)
With lab. Intermediate statistics illustrated using examples from ecology. Topics include ANOVA, linear regression (simple and multiple), correlation, logistic regression, contingency tables, and nonparametric methods. Techniques discussed in lectures and applied in laboratories. Prerequisite: ECO 697G. Credit, 4.
ECO 697SA Advanced Statistics for Environmental Conservation (1st sem, even yrs)
This course explores statistical problems beyond the classical linear models including mixed effects, non-normal error distributions, autocorrelations, etc. Hierarchical models, including explicit observer effects, will also be considered.
ECO 697SV Design, Implementation, and Analysis of Surveys of People (2nd sem)
This course covers the basic skills required to successfully design, implement, and analyze a survey of people. Class discussion will include the relative strengths and weaknesses of different survey methods and the “Dillman” method for designing surveys will be discussed in detail. The practical elements of implementing a survey, including the Internal Review Board process, data processing, storage, and validation will be covered. Finally, basic and advanced analytical techniques, using the R statistical package, will be investigated. Mr. Butler
ECO 697UF Urban Forest Management (2nd sem, odd yrs)
A multidisciplinary introduction to urban and community forest management. Includes a team studio project that identifies a community forest problem for which the class develops an interdisciplinary solution. Mr. Kane
ECO 697W Advanced Watershed Science and Management (2nd sem, even yrs)
Seminar on the latest topics and research in watershed management. Students lead, and discuss research papers, write critical summaries, and develop a review paper on a topic. Mr. Randhir
ECO 698 Practicum/Non-thesis projects
Credit, 1-6
ECO 699 Master’s Thesis
Credit, 1-6.
ECO 757 Advanced Fisheries Management & Ecology
Scientific basis for modern fisheries management, emphasizing coldwater fishes, anadromous species, large reservoir and river fisheries, and conflicts of interest with other water uses. Mr. Jordaan
ECO 758 Advanced Wildlife Management
A discussion course with varying current topics in wildlife management and conservation, potentially including topics such as population demography and ecology, habitat assessment and management, wildlife in a changing climate, reintroduction biology, conservation behavior, migratory bird management and conservation, or suburban wildlife ecology and management.
ECO 768 Wetland Science (2nd sem, even yrs)
Wetland ecology, policy, conservation and management are the focus of this course. An ecosystems approach to the dynamics and ecology of wetlands includes both biotic (vegetation, wildlife) and abiotic (landforms, soils, hydrology, geochemical cycling) elements, as well as interactions among them. Also covered are the legal, political and economic aspects of wetlands, wetland classification and evaluation and wetland management and conservation. Includes a weekly seminar for discussion of emerging issues in wetland science. Mr. Jackson
ECO 777 Advanced Systems Ecology (2nd sem, even yrs)
Overview of model building and analysis techniques, including stability analysis, individual-based modeling and spatial modeling. Students will program their own model in a language of their choice. Modeling environments covered will include Python, NetLogo and R.
ECO 791W Written Communication (1st sem)
This seminar course for graduate students focuses on the preparation of scientific papers, including strategy for conceptualizing papers, section tasks and length, style, grammar, and writing skills. Also covered will be other writing tasks important to graduate students including preparation of an updated resume, letter of application for employment, and a research abstract. Authorship, the manuscript review process, and how to write a book will be discussed.
ECO 796 Independent Study
Credit 1- 6
ECO 797P Population and Community Ecology
This course examines how to estimate the abundance of organisms and the determinants and regulation of population growth. It considers the various factors, including predation, mutualistic interactions and competition for resources, that influence the stability and temporal and spatial dynamics of populations and communities. It also considers the various factors that influence the species diversity and food web structure of a community, and examines the applications of these ideas to applied systems such as pest control and the management of wildlife and fisheries. Mr. Elkinton
ECO 899 Doctoral Dissertation
Credit, 10.
Related Courses - ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
ENVIRSCI 515 Microbiology of the Soil (1st sem)
Microbial processes in the soil and sediment environments. The ecology of the various microbial communities; the decomposition of organic matter, carbon transformations, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, and other mineral transformations; chemistry of these reactions and their biogeochemical implications; biological equilibrium, the rhizosphere, and microbial associations. Prerequisites: basic biology and organic chemistry. Mr. Simkins
ENVIRSCI 564 Environmental Soil Science (1st sem)
An examination of the basic physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil with emphasis on environmental science and natural resource applications. Soil's natural role in biome structure, nutrient cycling, water purification, and carbon storage will be explored. Processes important to soil and groundwater pollution (subsurface movement, attenuation, and remediation) will be discussed. Special attention given to wetland soil processes and the identification of hydric soils in the landscape. The society today - such as food security, adequate clean water, climate change, biodiversity conservation, and waste disposal. Some out-of-class field exercises are required. 4 credits. Ms. Henson
ENVIRSCI 565 Soil Formation and Classification (2nd sem, alternate yrs)
Effect of environmental factors on soil formation and land use. Relationship between soil morphology, classification, and use interpretations. Application of soils information to on site sewage disposal, wetland indentification, and other environmentally significant problems areas. Prerequisite: introductory course in chemistry, geology, soils, or environmental science; or consent of instructor. With lab. Also listed as STOCKSCH 565. 4 credits. Mr. Richardson
ENVIRSCI 575 Environmental Soil Chemistry (1st sem)
Fundamental chemical processes in soils such as precipitation/dissolution, ion exchange, redox reactions, partitioning and adsorption, and ion speciation as well as the nature of soil minerals and organic matter. Chemical processes affecting fate, transport, availability and remediation of heavy metals and organic contaminants in soils and other related terrestrial environments also addressed. Computer models used to examine some current environmental, agricultural, and engineering problems. Problem solving requiring algebraic and numerical manipulations. With lab. Also listed as STOCKSCH 575. Prerequisites: CHEM 110 or 111 and basic course in soil science. 4 credits. Mr. Xing
ENVIRSCI 585 Inorganic contaminants in Soil, Water, and Sediments (2nd sem)
Physical, chemical, and biological factors affecting the fate and transport of inorganic contaminants (including heavy metals) in soil, water and sediment. Sources, chemistry, pedogenic and geochemical behavior of these contaminants and methods used for their analysis. Risk assessment, and remediation technologies, options, and goals. Prerequisites: CHEM 111 & 112, knowledge of college algebra, basic soil science, and transition metal chemistry, or permission of instructor. Also listed as STOCKSCH 585. Mr. Xing
ENVIRSCI 587 Phyto/Bioremediation (1st sem)
This course will cover the various aspects of phytoremediation - the use of plants (both natural hyper-accumulators and transgenic) and their associated microbes with the purpose of environmental clean-up of contaminated soil, sediments and water. Various strategies for phytoremediation of a wide range of toxic pollutants, both organic and elemental, with a special emphasis on toxic metals will be discussed. Prerequisite: BIOLOGY 103, BIOLOGY 152, or STOCKSCH 384. Also listed as STOCKSCH 587. Mr. Dhankher.
ENVIRSCI 597B Special Topics- Potable Water Small & Disadvantaged Communities (1st sem)
Access to and the provision of safe drinking water is essential for human life, yet provision of such services is challenging, even within the USA. In this course, we examine the physical, technical, political, economic, and social factors that affect the provision of water in rural and disadvantaged communities. Interdisciplinary teams of students will work together over the semester to study, visit, and make recommendations as to how to address problems from a specific nearby public water system (i.e., the "study site" or "field site"). The study site(s) will be selected by the course instructors in consultation with the New England state water administrators. The instructors will then work with each of the student teams to begin addressing the problems at the assigned study sites. This will include: (1) documenting the system and its challenges based on existing records at the state offices and community files; (2) identification of the key stakeholders, (3) on-site or video meetings with those key stakeholders; (4) development of a preliminary report on the system needs, problems, and solutions already proposed by the stakeholders; (5) development of a plan and report including proposals for new, alternative solutions to the identified problems. In addition to the problem-based learning activities, students will hear from practitioners in the field, including learn about case studies of innovations and actions taken by entities such as the Res-Eau Community Circle program and (e.g., Community Engineering Corps) to address the challenge of public supply in the USA. Also listed as CE-ENG 597B. Ms. Milman, Mr. Reckhow, Ms. Kumpel.