Course overview
The aim of Restoration Ecology is to train students in planning and research relevant to the achievement of vegetation cover and wildlife habitat objectives in degraded landscapes. Restoration Ecology presents current theories of restoration in science and practice. The ecological approach links ecological theory in lectures to practical restoration in the field. Examples of successful restoration are presented as case studies used to monitor the effectiveness of on-ground works and prescribed management regimes. Students practice applying ecological theory to habitat designs on degraded land.
Course learning outcomes
- Adapt basic knowledge of ecological cycles, energy flow and organism connectivity to create sustainable ecosystems with integrity and stability.
- Categorise types of land degradation, their causes and correction.
- Design animal habitats with biotic and abiotic features.
- Generate a proposal and project plan with appropriate methods and materials.
- Devise a monitoring regime to track the long-term success and recovery of habitats.
- Demonstrate an understanding of biological monitoring principles and restoration.