HORT 250 - Introduction to Restoration Ecology

3.0 Credits
Introduction to the basic tenets of restoration ecology with a focus on the revegetation and repair of degraded and abandoned land as well as mitigating urbanization.

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

Define and distinguish between the concepts of restoration ecology, ecological restoration, reclamation and rehabilitation. [REASON]
Identify and interpret “natural capital” and its restoration. [REASON]
Estimate the degree of degradation to an ecosystem using reference ecosystems. [REASON]
Define restoration thresholds. [REASON]
Set restoration goals and identify appropriate restoration options and tools. [ACT]
Measure and evaluate restoration success. [ACT]
Identify and analyze a variety of methods used for monitoring and maintenance of ecological restoration projects. [ACT]