Waders will be provided for the stream ecology labs. We will go into the field regardless of the weather so be prepared for possible precipitation and unpleasant temperatures. For labs that include chemical analyses, goggles will be needed. You will not be allowed to participate in any exercise without proper attire, and you will not receive credit for missed exercises. Written assignments are an important part of the lab for this course.
Writing is a skill that can best be developed through practice.
Although content is the major component in good writing, appropriate grammar, spelling, and sentence and paragraph structure are also necessary for the effective communication of ideas. For this lab, you will practice writing in the style of the scientific community. In addition, lab 4 allows us to do ecological research on a heavily human-impacted ecosystem. You will also do two independent field projects, one on stream ecology and one on forest ecology. You will design the studies, collect and analyze data, and prepare written and oral presentations of your results.