Studies in Natural Resources Planning and Interpretation center on relationships between human society and natural ecosystems. This course is an introduction to the conservation of natural resources. The phrase, "conservation of natural resources" implies an environmental philosophy that admits the necessity of using natural objects and natural substances for the maintenance of human life. If human beings are to live, preserving nature in a pristine condition everywhere is not an option. As humans, we have choices of how we maintain the human dominated systems in which we live. Natural resources conservation today includes, however, consideration for the integrity of all ecosystems, whether natural or human influenced, and the well being of other species besides Homo sapiens. This course will emphasize the interconnectedness of human cultures and society, the ecosystems supplying the resources sustaining them, and the byproducts they produce. The approach we will be taking is sometimes called a "systems analysis" approach. The course objective is to help you to develop analytical skills to enable you to evaluate difficult questions pertaining to the use and conservation of natural resources. This course meets a requirement for the major in Natural Resources Planning and Interpretation, and qualifies for the "Diversity and Common Ground" requirement.

There are no college prerequisites for this course; however, you will benefit from a background in high school sciences including chemistry, math, and social sciences, especially geography.

Susan H. Bicknell, Ph. D.
Professor of Forest Ecology
Office: Natural Resources 111
Phone: (826) 3550
email: shb1@axe.humboldt.edu
Web Address: http://www.humboldt.edu/~shb1/
Office Hours: TTh 9-9:30, WF 9-10, W 12-1.