Applied ecology

Applied Ecology is concerned with managing the impact of human activities on the natural environment, such that the effects of human disturbance are minimised and protection and preservation of ecological communities is maximised. Specifically this course explores the many ways in which ecological knowledge and concepts can be used to inform natural resource management and achieve positive conservation outcomes. In this course, you are introduced to the many dimensions of environmental challenges, gain experience with evidence-based tools and approaches to support effective management of natural systems.

The course will focus on a range of issues that are of current importance in both academic research and policy-making for Australia and globally. There is a specific emphasis on developing the skills needed for successful careers in conservation and natural resource management. The practical component of the unit involves a field trip and three projects that focus on developing essential skills used by  environmental  managers. The tutorials are providing practical experience with decision-support tools relevant to a range of environmental problems. We hope you enjoy this unit and find it a valuable introduction to best practice environmental management.