Coasts are at the interface of terrestrial and marine systems, and as such are highly dynamic, diverse, and rich in resources, but also increasingly coming under the pressure of development.  In the past, the study of interactions between natural and anthropogenic systems has tended to concentrate on inland areas due to the interest in exploiting mineral and agricultural resources.  However, as development expands across our coastal zones, awareness of the value and diversity of these systems is emerging in response to their actual and potential degradation.  The principal aim of this course is to provide students with an understanding of coastal systems from a geoscience perspective, and how these systems are impacted and/or modified by natural and anthropogenic processes. 

Topics will include:

• geological setting - tectonics, lithology and sea level change
• the nature origins of rocky coasts, beach and barrier coasts, deltas and estuaries
• aquatic geochemistry and hydrology
• impacts of anthropogenic activities on water quality, aquatic ecosystems and aquaculture
• global change and sea level rise

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but will be assessed separately.

This course includes a 5 day field trip to Merimbula.  For 2011 the field trip is expected to be held from 14-18 February.  Students are required to pay a contribution towards the cost of the field trip, approximately $250 (excluding food).  Payments may be made at the Cashier, Frank Fenner Building (Bld 42) or online at ScienceShop http://scienceshop.anu.edu.au/

On completetion of this course students will achieve:

1. Understanding of the interactions between estuary formation, sediment input and modification, water movement and chemistry (rivers, aquifers and tidal) as well as sewage and anthropogenic pollutants to these systems.
2. Competent field mapping and measurement skills. 

Theory Examination (50%)

Research Project (50%)

Twenty five contact hours of lectures and practical work in the first week (5 days), and 40 hours of field work in the second week (5 days) on the NSW south coast.

Intensive course (does not run in the standard semester length)

Bachelor degree; with either first year Geology or first year Chemistry.