Course Overview
An ecosystem is made up of the interconnected relationships between living organisms (including humans) and their surrounding environment. To better understand and describe ecosystems, various principles and classification systems have been developed. Classification of ecosystems is needed to aid in forest management, wildlife management, ecological restoration and conservation. In this course, students will learn about key ecosystem principles and how ecosystems are described. Several ecosystem classification systems have been developed for British Columbia, such as the Biogeoclimatic Ecosystem Classification (BEC), the Wetland and Riparian Ecosystem Classification, and BC's Ecoregion Classification system. Students will practice observational and data recording skills in the field through the collection of soil and plant information and analyze this information. Practical applications of BEC within the context of Forest and Natural Areas Management will described and practiced in a range of different situations or ecosystem types.
Prerequisite(s)
- Completion of Term 1.
Credits
3.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Explain key ecosystem principles such as energy flow, nutrient cycling, succession, adaptation, and biodiversity.
- Compare and contrast ecosystem components and processes across a range of ecosystem types.
- Outline the structure and use of the biogeoclimatic ecosystem classification (BEC)
- Observe, collect, and record plant and soil data to describe and identify different ecosystems in the field.
- Apply ecosystem classification systems, with emphasis on the BEC system, in different situations and ecosystem types.
- Discuss effects of natural disturbance, climate change, and anthropogenic activities on ecosystem classification
Effective as of Winter 2026
Related Programs
Ecosystem Principles and Identification (RENR 2300) is offered as a part of the following programs:
School of Construction and the Environment
- Forest and Natural Areas Management
Diploma Full-time
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.