ENVS 054 - Northwest Ecology and Citizenry

Maximum of 5.0 possible Credits
Introduction to the ecology of Pacific NW ecosystems, including the impact of historic and contemporary issues. Includes applied study of WA state constitution and government, focusing on problem-solving. Counts as WA state history/Social Studies and/or science credit.

Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

Explain the complex, integrated and regulated processes by which organisms use matter and energy to sustain life. [REASON]
Analyze and describe the living and nonliving factors that affect organisms in ecosystems and the relationships among species within selected Pacific Northwest ecosystems. [REASON]
Analyze and explain the effects that human activities have on the capacity of Pacific Northwest ecosystems to sustain biological diversity. [REASON]
Describe the nature and structure of Washington state government and constitution, and how citizens interact with it. [REASON]
Connect patterns of habitation and development in the Pacific Northwest to changes in resource availability, land use, and biological diversity. [REASON]
Examine the historic and contemporary roles Native Americans have played in ecological stewardship, especially in terms of salmon and current recovery efforts. [EXPLORE]
Apply the methods of social science investigation to examine historical controversies that impacted the Pacific Northwest and continue to impact present-day politics, the economy and the environment. [REASON]
Apply scientific knowledge and skills to solve problems or propose solutions to regional environmental challenges in the Pacific Northwest. [ACT]