Time Schedule:
Trevor Branch
FISH 458
Seattle Campus
Explores the use of models in the evaluation of alternative management polices for natural resources, including modeling approaches, fitting models to data, and evaluating alternative management polices. Emphasizes calculating risk of extinction, and design of biological reserves. Recommended: either Q SCI 454 or FISH 454. Offered: jointly with Q SCI 458; Sp.
Class description
This course will explore how to use models to evaluate different management policies for natural resources. The three major topics are (1) modelling approaches, (2) fitting models to data and (3) evaluating alternative management policies. Particular emphasis will be placed on methods of including ecosystem interactions in such analysis, and in exploring spatial dynamics with models used in designing biological reserves.
Student learning goals
Fitting likelihood based models to data to estimate extinction risk.
Estimating maximum sustainable yield in fisheries populations.
Modeling the effects on catches of implementing marine protected areas.
Rapidly prototyping and implementing models for conservation and policy.
Learning how to use advanced Excel functions: Solver, Table, etc.
Teaching the basics of programming ecological models in R.
General method of instruction
The course will consist of three 50 minute lectures and one 2 hour computer laboratory each week. No required textbook but "The Ecological Detective" by Hilborn and Walters is the most relevant background text.
Recommended preparation
Recommended FISH/QSCI 454. Advantageous to have taken Intro to R FISH 552 or to have some experience with R. The class is an advanced undergraduate / graduate class aimed at QSCI minors, undergraduates with a quantitative bent, and graduate students.
Class assignments and grading
Homework problems will be assigned for completion over two weeks.
15% Mid-term I 15% Mid-term II 20% Lab exam 50% Homework
