Environmental Studies - Environmental Biology

The mission of conservation biology is the conservation of life on earth, and thus to balance the needs of people and biodiversity. To understand the promise and peril of conservation biology’s mission in a rapidly globalizing world, the course introduces students to the elements of the contemporary biodiversity crisis, the applied practices of professional conservationists, and the values and scientific theories that provide the discipline’s foundation. Coursework is designed to develop practical skills and disciplinary knowledge through interactive lectures, field trips, and group and individual projects.

Wetlands have been greatly maligned as wasted land and mosquito breeding grounds for centuries; however, these delicate environments have been shown to provide essential ecosystem services, including filtering of nutrients and sediments, bird and fish habitat, and attenuation of floods. Because of this, many environmental agencies and non-profit groups are working to restore wetlands. In Wetland Ecology, we will explore the characteristics and function of wetlands, what sorts of organisms live in wetlands, and how humans can improve their interactions with wetlands in both in the classroom and through field and laboratory experiences. We will develop an appreciation of these critical ecosystems.

This course introduces students to the environmental, socio-political, and economic dimensions of agricultural production, particularly in the United States and  the Chesapeake Bay region. Drawing upon current social and biophysical scientific research, case studies, and guest speakers who are experts in the respective agriculture-related fields, course topics will include a survey of principles, techniques, and concepts that engage students with the material  dimensions and human experiences of food, fiber, and commodity production. The lab component of this course will tie together field trips and student research  to explore how sustainable agricultural practices have been embraced by local producers and regional college farms and gardens. Lessons will be applied  through student-led food production efforts at McDaniel College and creative science communication projects.

This course provides an intro to field exploration and field-based environmental science. Students will explore and study local mountains, rivers, and forests. The course will emphasize the role of exploration and field-based environmental science in continuously advancing our understanding of the natural world and how to manage the environment sustainably. Students should expect to get outside regularly, overcome adversity, and learn more about themselves, their home planet, and how to study and conserve the Earth's mountains, rivers, and forests.