Evolution, ecology, behavior, physiology and diversity of mammals. The focus of the course is on conceptual issues, such as the relation of structure, function, physiology and ecology of species; reproductive physiology and life history strategies; and the evolution of mating systems and social structure. Familiarity of mammalian groups to the family level and identification of local fauna to species will be required. Lab.

Theories and practices of environmental dispute settlement. Roles of public, non-governmental and governmental organizations. Effectiveness of public participation initiatives in influencing public policy decisions and/or resolving environmental conflicts. Alternative approaches to consensus (policy dialogues, joint problem solving; strategic planning; negotiation, mediation) as well as litigation. Specific cases are critiqued and evaluated; conflict resolution skills are developed. Students observe and/or participate in ongoing local decision processes. Lab.

Forest land ownership, management objectives, forest inventory regulation and policy, forest administration, professional responsibilities and opportunities. Lab.

Costa Rica is the happiest country on Earth. Bhutan is a living laboratory for education. Bolivia has a Law of Mother Earth in its constitution. Cities and towns in the US create local solutions to problems of resource sustainability while the national dialogue stagnates. What drives some places to lay the foundations for sustainable futures, while others do not? Sense of Place is a powerful lends though which to view the relative achievements of places and organizations toward creating a sustainable future. The goals of this seminar are (1) to survey the Sense of Place literature and to analyze case studies of the role of Sense of Place in the success of sustainability efforts nationally and internationally; and (2) to research the role of Sense of Place in our local community environment and to relate it to stated goals in existing sustainability plans. To be considered as a capstone option for majors in Environmental and Conservation Sustainability, students must also register for NR 753 in the Fall semester.