Honors Program: A pathway to excellence.

HON 301 Geology, biology, and management issues of Ecuador and the Galapagos

The focus of the course will be the biodiversity and geology of the Galapagos Islands. We will identify and observe terrestrial and marine vertebrate species that are endemic to the Galapagos Islands and we will consider theories of island biogeography and conservation biology as applied to the Galapagos Islands. Non-endemic invasive species and the consequent historical and current impacts on the flora and fauna of the Galapagos will also be considered. The uniqueness of the Galapagos Islands from a geological perspective will be explored. We will visit numerous unique geological features throughout the islands and assess the geological history of these features. We will also consider natural resource management strategies regarding the conservation of Galapagos species (both marine and terrestrial) and the conservation of geological landforms. These strategies will include the management of tourists.

Travel Abroad: Students will spend 14 days abroad in the Galapagos islands. Students will be required to bring a pair of binoculars, a hand lens, a field journal, a day pack, a water bottle, sunscreen and hiking footwear with them to the Galapagos. There may be additional equipment requirements as we gear up to go. Contact Dr. Jack Kirkley or Dr. Sheila Roberts for details of the Galapagos Expedition.
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Substitutions: This course will substitute for BIO270 (Conservation Biology), BIO112 (Biology II), Biology101 (Introduction to Biology), Geology 101 (Introduction to Geology), Geology 150 (Environmental Geology) or ENVS329 (Natural Resource Issues). As we flesh out the course, other substitutions may be possible.

Instructors: Jack Kirkley and Dr. Sheila Roberts

Time: Spring 2009, Block 7, 12-3pm

Prerequisite: Honors student in good standing and consent of instructor