EDTC627

This course combines field observations, lectures and research projects to investigate the ecology, geology, and geomorphology of New Jersey and surrounding areas. The principle theme of the course is the dynamic nature of ecological and geological systems. Specific topics include: ecological succession, forest health, dynamics, biodiversity and restoration, and the integration of bedrock geology and surface processes (e.g., rivers, glaciers, coastal processes) to produce variation in geomorphological and ecological landscapes. There will be field excursions to salt marshes and a hardwood swamp forest in the New Jersey Meadowlands, sand dunes and American holly forest at the Sandy Hook Gateway National Recreation Area, a high-elevation bog on the Kitatinny Ridge, and a glacial boulder field near the Delaware River. Field labs at the nearby Ramapo Valley County Reservation give hands-on experience at conducting field research about forest ecology and developing lesson plans that focus on authentic research tasks.