NCP-10806 Forest and Nature Conservation I: Introductory Field Course

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

Dutch

Contents:

Ecological and social factors steering nature and forest management are illustrated using day excursions. During a two-week stay in the 'Veluwe' area, students will carry out an ecological research project. Alternative functions of nature areas (recreation, timber production) will be evaluated and discussed. Choices and dilemmas associated with nature management in the Netherlands are illustrated.
Activities: debating, teamwork, excursions, interviewing stakeholders.

Learning outcomes:

At the end of the course, the student is expected to:
- demonstrate detailed knowledge of the interrelationships of ecosystem traits, environmental conditions and management in nature areas;
- relate the social functions of forest and nature reserves to management activities, targets and results;
- collect and analyse ecological data in field studies;
- interpret these data and present the results to a general audience.

Activities:

Debating, teamwork, excursions, collecting and analysing ecological data, presenting results, interviewing stakeholders, interpreting different functions of forests and nature reserves.

Examination:

Oral and written reports.

Literature:

Handbook will be handed out during the course.