Lectures: FSH 107, Tues & Thurs 12:30-1:50 pm

Lab: FSH 142. Thurs 2:00-4:00 pm

In this course, we use a watershed perspective to learn about the ecology of streams and rivers, with an emphasis on the coastal region of the Pacific Northwest. The general topic is well supported by a variety of theoretical concepts, and these will be used as the foundation for developing a regional knowledge of aquatic communities and the associated riparian zones. A strong emphasis is placed on ‘natural' systems. Topics addressed include general hydrology and geomorphology, along with detailed discussions of system classification, riparian zones, roles of animals, hyporheic processes, suspended and benthic organic matter, trophic ecology, system metabolism, decomposition, biogeochemical cycles, and microbial ecology.

There are two weekend field trips (Skagit River and Hoh/Queets River), one field trip during regular class hours to a local stream, and extensive laboratory exercises on stream organisms and quantitative tools. In lab, you will be given the opportunity to develop hands-on skills in the identification of a wide variety of stream organisms and their basic life history traits. The goal of this course is to produce a ‘work-ready' individual who can speak with authority about the components and dynamics of river ecosystems.

Expectations of the Student

In general, we have the highest expectations of you - To learn quickly; To be prepared every day; To think critically all the time; To educate your classmates with personal insight, knowledge, and experience whenever possible, and; To demonstrate academic integrity at the highest level. How can you do this? Read assignments before lecture; constantly work to integrate new concepts and terminology as the lectures and labs progress; discuss concepts and questions inside and outside class; keep the big picture in mind, but be familiar with the details; and actively participate - verbally and intellectually.

Evaluation

Participation 30% Field trips & class discussions
Mid-term Exam 20% In-class written exam.
Lab Exam 20% Identification and life history of lotic fauna and flora (MAY 29)
Final Exam 30% Take Home (Short answer & essay questions) Hard copy only, please. Exams are DUE JUNE 11 by 12:20pm in FISH 238 (Liz's Office). You may hand in your exam prior to Thursday.

Grading

3.9-4.0 A Superior performance in all aspects of the course with work exemplifying the highest quality.
3.5-3.8 A- Superior performance in most aspects of the course; high quality work in the remainder.
3.2-3.4 B+ High quality performance in all or most aspects of the course.
2.9-3.1 B High quality performance in some of the course; satisfactory performance in the remainder.
2.5-2.8 B- Satisfactory performance in the course.
2.2-2.4 C+ Satisfactory performance in most of the course, with the remainder being substandard.
1.9-2.1 C Evidence of some learning but generally marginal performance.
1.5-1.8 C- Evidence of some learning but marginal performance. *Note: Graduate credit is not given for grades < 1.7.
1.2-1.4 D+ Minimal learning and low quality performance throughout the course.
0.9-1.1 D Very minimal learning and very low quality performance in all aspects of the course.
0.7-0.8 D- Little evidence of learning. Poor performance in all aspects of the course.
0.0 F Complete absence of evidence of learning or evidence of cheating.

UW Policy on Academic Integrity

Plagiarism, cheating, and other misconduct are serious violations of your contract as a student. We expect that you will know and follow the University's policies on cheating and plagiarism. Any suspected cases of academic misconduct will be handled according to University regulations. More information, including definitions and examples of Academic Misconduct, can be found here.

To request academic accommodations due to a disability, please contact Disabled Student Services, 448 Schmitz Hall, (206)543-8924 (V/TTY). If you have a letter from Disabled Student Services indicating you have a disability, which requires academic accommodations, please present the letter to the instructor so we can discuss the accommodations needed for this class.