Course Overview
Students will develop an understanding of ecosystem components and management of ecosystems in B.C., learn to understand and use the Biogeoclimatic Ecosystem Classification system, develop competency in site diagnosis, use Regional Field Guides and become familiar with the appropriate Forest Practices Code Guidebooks. Plants and their identification will focus on structure, physiology, taxonomy and indicator value of plants in ecosystems. Plant (emphasis on trees) reproduction, distribution and ecological significance will be covered. Ecosystem based plant collections will be required. Soils will emphasize the development and classification of soils in an ecological context. The student will learn to interpret climate, site, vegetation and soil processes for ecosystem management. Forest Practices Code requirements for using soil knowledge will be examined and practiced. Both the engineering and plant growth aspects of soils will be developed.
- Retired
- This course has been retired and is no longer offered. Find other Flexible Learning courses that may interest you.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:
- Explain ecosystem development and the factors of formation.
- Demonstrate the ability to classify sites according to the BEC system using provincial field guides and maps.
- Demonstrate the ability to carry out site diagnosis and assessment.
- Interpret sites for forest productivity, tree species selection and planning.
- Identify trees (25) and common indicator plants (100+) using both field guides and taxonomic keys. Species will include native trees and terrestrial and aquatic plants.
- Recognize common tree species by bark and wood characteristics.
- Describe basic plant physiology, taxonomy, geographical distribution and ecological significance.
- Classify soils from field observations to the order level (Canadian System of Soil Classification, and sample appropriately.
- Recognize and inter[prêt soils as required for the FPC (Forest Practices Code) including: sensitivity to compaction, surface erosion, mass erosion, mineral soil and forest floor displacement hazard.
- Describe major processes of soil development in the context of the BEC system.
- Demonstrate the ability to complete the provincial inventory ecology forms.
Effective as of Fall 2003
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.