James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2021

BZ2480 - Restoration Ecology

Subject Description

This subject will focus on developing student appreciation and understanding for one of the most important processes involved in ecology: the restoration of degraded landscapes. Habitat loss is one of the main drivers of species extinction facing much of the tropical world (and, indeed, other areas). Alleviating the potential impact of habitat loss requires restoring previously degraded natural systems and re-instating ecological processes. This subject will introduce students to this problem and focus on its solution. The subject will address the theoretical basis of restoration, its practical application and the ecological techniques (and evidence) for how wildlife populations (both plant and animal) change in response to restoration efforts.

There are additional charges for this subject; please contact the College of Science and Engineering for details.

Learning Outcomes

• explain the general theory of restoration ecology and its practical application in restoration projects
• implement monitoring and ecological survey techniques to assess key site factors important to site restoration and to measure restoration progress
• develop a restoration plan that is underpinned by restoration ecology theory and is also implementable in practice

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (30%) - Individual
• Oral > Presentation 1 - (25%) - Group
• Written > Project report - (18%) - Individual
• Written > Workbook - (27%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Assumed Knowledge:  Students enrolling in this subject should have a good understanding of level 1 biology or environmental science, including at least one BZ or EV subject.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  BZ5480

Availabilities