ENVS 301 2E - Roots and Shoots

3 Credit(s)

Dynamic interrelationships within and between ecosystems are the key to what we will study in this course as well as the history of human relationship and impact with the natural world and the ecological history of civilization. Finally we will look at what the future may hold for this relationship depending on the choices that each of us make. Course work will include activities both inside and out of doors as we expand our knowledge of the plants and plant communities of the Edgewood campus, the surrounding neighborhoods and the University of Wisconsin Arboretum. The class will collaborate with several community groups and business groups to research and promote the practice of sustainable living. We will also be fostering a culture of sustainability within the Edgewood Community with hands on experience in ecological restoration practices on the Edgewood grounds, the UW Arboretum and the City of Madison parks and Recreation. Field trips will include several Saturday day-trips to scientific areas, Nature Conservancy sites, sustainable housing and LEED certified buildings and one overnight to the Environmental Retreat Center in Mazomanie. Students will collaborate with Woods Edge, the Environmental Studies Student Organization with outdoor activities and community outreach projects. Each student will be expected to make a 20 minute presentation to the class during the month of April. These presentations will illustrate how the material covered in the class relates specifically to the individual students major or main area of interest.

Prerequisite(s): COR 1 or equivalent; open to students in their second or third year, or sophomore and above transfers; prior or concurrent enrollment in another Environmental Studies course recommended. Sophomore status.