Time Schedule:
Amy K. Snover
SMA 550
Seattle Campus
Examination of various aspects of marine studies. Content varies, depending upon the interests of the faculty and students. Intended for the joint participation by the faculty and advanced students in the investigation of selected topics. One or more groups are organized each quarter.
Class description
We will examine current and future (resulting from global warming) patterns of Pacific Northwest climate to determine how knowledge of these patterns could be used to improve regional natural resource management. This evaluation will be based on an understanding of:
1. The importance of climate fluctuations for PNW water, fish, forest, and coastal resources;
2. Past societal reactions to climate forecasts, climate events, and their regional impacts;
3. How climate and public policies interact to impact natural resources, industry, and human institutions in the PNW;
4. The predictability (and associated uncertainty) of future climate variations and human caused climate changes.
Students will be charged with developing policy recommendations for improving natural resource management by incorporating climate information into decision processes.
This course will draw heavily on the research of the University of Washington's interdisciplinary Climate Impacts Group (CIG).
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lectures, student-led discussion.
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Course Goals:
1. To examine resource management practices from a "climate perspective" - identify opportunities for improved resource management with better use of existing climate information - identify societal vulnerability and sensitivity to climate variations
2. To work across disciplinary boundaries in order to tackle real-world environmental policy issues
Grading will be based on in-class participation, short essays and a term paper.
