ENST410

Prerequisite: ENST360 or BSCI361; or permission of instructor. Restriction: Must be in one of the following programs (Environmental Sci & Tech: Ecological Tech Design; Environmental Sci & Tech; Environmental Sci & Tech: Natural Resources Mgmt; Environmental Sci & Tech: Soil & Watershed Science; Environmental Sci & Tech: Environmental Health). The importance of our ecosystems and the services they provide will be discussed. Basic principles used to analyze ecosystem services will be discussed and applied using case studies & field exercises. Forestland, wetlands and our marine resources are increasingly recognized for their ecosystem services provided to society, to include clean air and water, wildlife habitat, biodiversity, carbon storage and pollination services. This course will prepare students to deal with the complex issues involved in understanding those and other ecosystem services and their importance to society and environmental sustainability. Slowly, new markets are emerging for these services. Students will analyze the ecological, policy and financial dimensions of enhancing, restoring, and sustaining ecosystem services. New and on-going government programs and private business ventures will be discussed.