This course develops multi-disciplinary skills by integrating scientific knowledge and environmental management using examples of major environmental issues related to land and marine environments, including the coastal zone. Through lectures, research projects and field study site visits, students learn about: 

• Mine site rehabilitation
• National parks and their management
• Management of indigenous lands
• Wildlife management for conservation and production
• Sustainable management of land and water resources in rangelands and croplands
• Management of river systems and catchments
• Coastal zone management

This course is relevant to soil scientists, foresters, geographers, geologists and others involved in land and catchment management.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Conduct a detailed literature search and prepare a major research paper on a major environmental issue related to land and marine environments, including the coastal zone.
2. Conduct a detailed literature search and prepare a research seminar on a major environmental issue related to land and marine environments, including the coastal zone.
3. Discuss a range of environmental issues with various land managers, government extension officers and private consultants, and prepare a report on these issues.
4. Work in teams to record data, write joint reports, and present joint papers at conferences.
5. Prepare a comprehensive discussion paper on the management of a range of land and catchment environments, taking into account biophysical, social and economic perspectives.

• 3000-word major research essay, involving a comprehensive literature review and detailed and critical essay on a selected topic (25%; LO 1) 
• Research seminar that requires a detailed literature search and presentation of research topic (20%; LO 2)
• Field trip reports (25%) that require gathering data first hand from guest speakers, plus researching the literature (LO 3, 4)
• 3000-word discussion paper (30%; LO 5, 6)

65 contact hours, including five hours per week (two hours lectures, three hours workshop) or equivalent time as field trips.  A major compulsory field trip is held in September.

Bachelor degree; with general science knowledge

General science knowledge

Incompatible with SREM6503 or SRES6504