Ecological Restoration

Bachelor of Science Full-time/Part-time School of Construction and the Environment

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Continuing Your Education

M.Sc. in Ecological Restoration

Canada’s first master’s program specializing in Ecological Restoration

South Wetland Restoration Project students return to BCIT

BCIT South Wetland Restoration project brings education to life

Ken Ashley, Faculty, Ecological Restoration, and Director, BCIT Rivers Institute, discusses an important wetland habitat restoration project on the south end of the BCIT Burnaby campus.

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Overview

Become a part of Canada’s premier environmental and restoration related programs. BCIT invites you to join one of the most unique educational models in Canada. In the time it takes to do a typical university degree, you can get two academic credentials; a Diploma in Fish, Wildlife and Recreation (FWR) or Forest and Natural Areas Management (FNAM) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Ecological Restoration.

Completion of either of these two-year diploma programs (or similar programs elsewhere) will provide you with the strong foundation needed to apply for entry into BCIT’s Degree in Ecological Restoration. This degree, the first of its kind in Canada, provides world-class applied training on restoring the numerous damaged aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems that exist across British Columbia, Canada, and around the world.

Ecological Restoration (ER) is a scientific discipline that has recently emerged due to the increasing need to restore damaged ecosystems. Restoration scientists and practitioners are ‘ecosystem physicians’ …. Doctors apply knowledge of physiology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and parasitology to address human health issues. ER practitioners apply knowledge of: ecology, hydrology, geochemistry, geomorphology, and engineering to address ecological health issues1. Natural habitats across the province have been severely impacted due to habitat destruction, urban sprawl, invasive species expansions, and direct damage due to industrial contamination of soils and aquatic resources. These factors combined with the resulting increase in number of threatened and endangered species have resulted in the strong need for ecosystem restoration work across the province and around the world.

The Bachelor Degree in Ecological Restoration provides graduates with a strong foundation in the methods available to restore a broad range of ecosystems that have been impacted by human influences in British Columbia, across Canada and in other parts of the world. Ecological Restoration graduates will not only bring skills and expertise to current employers but will also be leaders and innovators in this rapidly-developing industry.

These programs, in partnership with the newly established BCIT Rivers Institute, are widely renowned locally and internationally for their “ﬁeld oriented” learning and applied research. The Rivers Institute plays a leadership role in the protection and restoration of rivers and provides support and mentoring to the next generation of river stewards. Working with our many diverse partners on a wide range of applied restoration projects, students gain extensive experience tackling some of the many environmental challenges facing local, regional, provincial and international communities.

NOTE: 1 This analogy was originally described by Hood and Simenstad in Roman, C.T. and D.M. Burdick’s (2012) book titled: Tidal Marsh Restoration: A Synthesis of Science and Management. Island Press, Washington, DC.

Check out our virtual info session for more information

BCIT Bachelor of Science in Ecological Restoration Info session Oct 2021

Entrance Requirements

Application processing

Full-time: this program is open to applications beginning October 1st (or next business day).

Part-time: applications are accepted throughout the year.

Entrance requirements

NOTICE TO APPLICANTS: Effective Fall 2024, BCIT will implement English Language Proficiency (ELP) categories for programs requiring a minimum of English 12 with 50%, 67%, or 73% into Categories 1,2,3, and Graduate Studies. This will allow students who have met their English Language Proficiency requirements using a method other than BC Secondary School English to easily see the equivalent option for their desired program. Applications submitted for intakes scheduled to start on or after September 1, 2024, (or received starting October 1, 2023 for programs with rolling start dates) will be evaluated using the new English Language Proficiency (ELP) categories. The ELP categories replace the previous English requirements.

Applicants must meet all entrance requirements and will be accepted on a first qualified basis as long as space remains.

English: two years of education in English in an English-speaking country with one of the following:
- English Studies 12 (67%) or
- English First Peoples 12 (67%) or
- Acceptable equivalent high school course or
- 3.0 credits of post-secondary English, humanities or social sciences (67%) from a recognized institution
Post-secondary: one of the following:
- BCIT diploma:
  - Fish, Wildlife and Recreation (FWR) diploma program* or
  - Forest and Natural Areas Management diploma program*
  *Currently enrolled full-time BCIT diploma students applying to the full-time degree may be conditionally accepted based on successful completion of their diploma.
- Alternate entry**:
  - A two-year diploma in a relevant discipline (e.g., natural resource management) from a recognized post-secondary institution or
  - Successful completion of at least the first two years of a university program in a relevant discipline (e.g., natural resource management, ecology, environmental science, forestry). This must consist of a minimum of 60.0 university credits comprised of 30.0 credits at the 100 level and 30.0 credits at the 200 level and above (1 credit is equivalent to 15 hours course work). Credits must be university-transferable. Departmental review is required.
  **Alternate entry applicants must meet with the program area prior to applying for an assessment of their academic background. The assessment will evaluate the applicant’s academic background and identify whether bridging courses must be completed prior to applying into the program. When all necessary entry requirements have been completed, the applicant can apply by uploading their completed assessment document along with their latest transcript showing the completion of required bridging courses, if needed.
Completion of a post-secondary level course in introductory statistics (equivalent to BCIT's MATH 2453) prior to admission to the program. Applicants' academic qualifications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Note: **For the alternate entry path these are the minimum requirements for admission to the Ecological Restoration degree program. Due to the diverse background of applicants the Ecological Restoration program reserves the right to require additional course upgrades prior to entry.

Applicants who have completed post-secondary studies outside of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand will require a comprehensive evaluation of their credentials by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES). Credential evaluation reports from other Canadian services may be considered. These reports must include course-by-course evaluations and GPA calculations.

Applicants currently enrolled in the last term of their degree/diploma must be on track to complete by May. To apply submit both of the following documents from your post-secondary institution:

Transcript of completed courses
Confirmation of enrolment letter verifying your current course enrolment and registration in the final term of your degree/diploma

International applicants

The full-time option is available to international applicants. A valid study permit is required prior to starting the program.

The part-time option is available to international students who currently have a valid status in Canada. A valid study permit is required prior to starting the program.

Students enrolled in this program must complete the mandatory work component to qualify for graduation. A co-op work permit is required prior to starting the work component.

Apply to program

To submit your application:

Include proof of meeting all entrance requirements.
Convert all transcripts and supporting documents to PDF files.
Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.

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Learn more about how to apply

Scheduled Intakes

Part-time: January and September.

Full-time: September each year.

myCommunication

Within two business days of submitting your completed application, BCIT will send a message to your personal and myBCIT e-mail addresses. All correspondence regarding your application will be posted to your online myCommunication account at my.bcit.ca. We'll send you an e-mail when a new message is posted. It's important to watch for these e-mails or regularly check your account online.

You can expect to receive communication concerning the status of your application within four weeks.

Advanced Placement

Re-admission

You can apply for re-admission if you:

were previously admitted to this program and completed part of it at BCIT and
want to re-enter the program at an advanced level.

Submit the Course-by-Course Self-Assessment Form [PDF] with your application.

Ready to submit your application? Apply now.

Costs & Supplies

Tuition fees

Full-time Studies

Use our tuition estimator to find tuition and fees for this program.

For more information on full-time tuition and fees, visit:

Flexible Learning

Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) tuition is charged on a course-by-course basis. Please see the Flexible Learning tuition and fees pages for more information:

Books & supplies

Approximately $1,500.00 (general estimated cost, and subject to change)

A laptop will be required for some courses; approximate cost is $1000.

Financial assistance

Financial assistance may be available for this program. For more information, please contact Student Financial Aid and Awards.

Courses

As a student in the Ecological Restoration, Bachelor of Science program, you’ll receive a solid foundation of the skills, knowledge, and experiences required to meet today’s many natural resource management and ecosystem restoration challenges.

Your learning experiences will be unique with much of the learning done through hands-on field applications involving actual ecological restoration initiatives. You will also be involved in group and individual projects, case studies, class presentations, guest lectures by active restoration specialists, laboratory sessions, field labs and an applied research project.

Program matrix

Check current availability of courses for this program.

Level 5 (Fall - 15 weeks)			Credits
	RENR 7000	Foundations of Chemistry This course covers basic principles of chemistry. The major topics are atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry, redox reactions, and electrochemistry. Additional material includes chemical bonding, solutions, neutralization and solubility of compounds. The importance of precipitation reactions for the treatment of water and wastewater will also be examined. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	3.0
	RENR 7004	Fish & Wildlife Ecology & Management The first part of the course provides students with a solid foundation in fisheries management with a focus on British Columbia. This course emphasizes fish identification, fish measurements, ichthyology, life history, basic biological features, fisheries management issues (e.g., mark recapture, stock recruitment), fish culture and fisheries techniques. The second part of the course covers the principles and practice of wildlife ecology and management with particular emphasis on inventory protocols and species at risk in BC. Topics include: biology and ecology of wildlife species; dynamics of wildlife populations; methods of studying wildlife; natural and artificial regulation of animal numbers; control of problem wildlife; evaluation and enhancement of wildlife habitats; management for harvest. Field sessions outside of scheduled class time will be required. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	4.0
	RENR 7006	Field Skills for Ecological Restoration This course is designed to provide students with hands-on training and application of field techniques used to conduct assessments in support of restoration methods, with an emphasis on stream and riparian habitat. A strong emphasis will be placed on field safety protocols and establishing safety plans. Other modules included in the class may vary among years, but usually include assessments of water quality, stream flow, fish and fish habitat, benthic macroinvertebrates, as well as installation and stability assessments of in-stream wood structures. Modules will focus on proper maintenance and use of survey equipment essential to obtaining accurate results, as well as proper interpretation of field survey results. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	4.0
	RENR 7007	Planning for Ecological Restoration Designed as an introduction to ecological restoration (ER) for those with little background in this field, this course develops knowledge and skills needed to plan and implement restoration activities. The course describes the process for developing, implementing, monitoring, and refining on-the-ground restoration projects. The course begins by introducing the process of ER and common restoration techniques, with frequent reference to specific examples explored in class and on field trips. Students will expand and assess their knowledge of ER by critically reviewing several restoration plans. The main component of the course entails students working in small groups to develop a restoration plan for a degraded site in the Greater Vancouver area. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	4.0
	RENR 7008	Indigenous Perspectives in Natural Resources Management This course will explore the historical and contemporary relationship between First Nations and the physical environment, particularly in British Columbia. The course will give a detailed overview of the history of First Nations from both a national and provincial perspective. It will also examine the various federal acts that have impacted aboriginal peoples socially and politically. The course will explore the treaty process in British Columbia and look at Aboriginal self-government, ownership of lands and the management of natural resources. Through case studies and team projects, the course will explore the working relationship between First Nations, various levels of government and private industry particularly with respect to Traditional Ecological Knowledge, environmental management and sustainability issues. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	3.0
	RENR 7010	Geospatial Application in Natural Resource Management This course reviews technologies and tools commonly used to survey, map, and analyze geospatial data in applications of natural resource management. Students will use a range of geospatial and digital field survey tools and applications to: (i) design, access, create, translate, and edit digital data files; (ii) collect, process, and export field observations using a range of field techniques including GNSS and remote sensing technology; (iii) interpret and analyze data; and (iv) prepare and present data in technical reports and presentations. This course will support students that are new to geospatial concepts as well as review and further develop concepts and skills introduced in diploma-level geospatial courses in the Renewable Resources Department. The course will support learning of students with a range of geospatial experience using techniques such as asynchronous modules offered through the Geospatial Hub, optional supplemental in-person labs and consulting, and peer-to-peer learning. Assignments and lessons will introduce students to tools and processes that will assist them in desktop analyses and use of field observations in other courses within the Ecological Restoration BSc Program. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	3.0

Level 6 (Winter - 15 weeks)			Credits
	LIBS 7001	Critical Reading and Writing This is a course in advanced composition and rhetoric, in which students will develop skills in complex critical analysis and interpretation by analyzing and evaluating materials from a variety of discourses or genres, including visual, online, and print; developing and writing essays, including critiques and research papers; applying and discussing principles of rhetoric and critical theory; examining and using methods of interpretation and analysis from the humanities and social sciences; evaluating the credibility of primary and secondary sources, including as it applies to media literacy, and for the purposes of academic research; situating discourses within their historical context and relevant to rhetorical theories of different periods (for example, Aristotle in the ancient world and Bakhtin in the twentieth century). The course format will include lecture, discussion, and both individual and group activities. Prerequisite(s): BCIT ENGL 1177 or equivalent, or 6 credits BCIT Communication at 1100-level or above, or 3 credits of a university/college first-year social science or humanities course. course outline	3.0
	MATH 7100	Biostatistics for Natural Resource Managers The goals of this course are to provide the student with the skills needed to solve and understand problems relating to data analysis that will be encountered in the renewable resource and environmental areas. Considerable emphasis will be placed on the application to analysis of real-life problems, technical and journal articles, the presentation and analysis of data using statistical and spreadsheet software. Class assignments will be given that require critical thinking, communication and explanation of results through verbal presentation and report writing. This course includes the following course content: (1) Hypothesis testing and goodness-of-fit testing using t, z, F, and chi-squared statistics (2) Bivariate data analysis using linear models, including log transformation, parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing (3) Analysis of variance (4) Non-parametric statistical analysis (5) Collection of data and development of databases (6) Appropriate use of graphical displays (7) Experimental design, including completely random designs and randomized complete block designs. Prerequisite(s): MATH 2453 course outline	4.0
	RENR 7001	Foundations of Biology This course provides an overview of key biological topics relevant to the field of ecosystem restoration and conservation biology. Topics will include: the chemistry of life, including the structure and function of macromolecules, cell structures and membranes, the gene (meiosis, Mendelian genetics, chromosomes and inheritance), and evolution. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	3.0
	RENR 7200	Climate and Climate Change Impact Understanding how climate change impacts ecosystems as well as techniques that increase the ability of ecosystems to withstand these impacts are essential to a successful career in natural resource management. This course begins by developing an understanding of the key processes that influence local weather versus climate patterns, as well as an understanding of climate feedback processes. The course will clarify the relative contributions of different human activities to recent and ongoing climate change, as well as explore the diverse impacts of this climate change on ecosystems. Relying heavily on case studies, this class will develop the student's ability to understand and critique common techniques used to increase the ability of ecosystems to withstand projected climate-related stressors. The course also explores key government regulations used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) as well as to mitigate the impacts of human-caused climate change on ecosystems. Course content will focus especially on climate topics that are relevant to southwestern British Columbia. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	3.0
	RENR 8201	Terrain and Stream Channel Assessment for Ecological Restoration This course provides an outline of the physical processes that control how watersheds function; it provides the necessary geophysical link with biology required to successfully plan, undertake and complete ecological restoration. Both terrestrial and fluvial processes are considered. Because these processes require understanding of general geoscience principals, this course includes selected basic introduction to earth science concepts. The first section of the course covers general earth science principals leading into terrain assessment, including a wide range of terrain attributes, with mapping and related interpretations such as landslide and erosion hazards from the point of view of the map user and according to current provincial (British Columbia) standards. Topics covered include an overview of watershed assessment approaches, morphometry, hydrological concepts, surficial materials and landforms, principles of soil physical behavior (e.g., drainage and strength), use of terrain maps, terrain map symbols, and developing terrain maps landslide and other slope processes. The second section, dealing with fluvial processes, covers the collection and interpretation of stream channel data. Other topics will include: the provincial Channel Assessment Procedure and the effects of land use on stream channel, gully and alluvial fan morphology, and channel restoration strategies. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	4.0

Level 7 (Fall - 15 weeks)			Credits
	RENR 8101	Terrestrial Ecosystem Restoration Terrestrial Ecosystem Restoration covers the principles (science) and practice (art) of restoration of terrestrial ecosystems with particular reference to problems and procedures in the Pacific Northwest and BC. The course focuses on a regional overview of the biogeography and environmental history of the Pacific Northwest. The process of ecological restoration, from goal setting and project planning through to monitoring and adaptive management will be discussed. Intensive examination of ecological restoration of the major ecosystems of the region will be conducted, along with managing natural areas in urban environments, invasive species, climate change, and management at different scales. Students will use this information to design (and present to fellow students and clients) a restoration plan for a specific BC ecosystem, including: identifying a `degraded', `damaged', `destructed', or `transformed' ecosystem; identify (through sampling and background research) their `reference ecosystem'; setting goals and objectives; design a restoration plan and monitoring (adaptive management) protocol; and their planned public education activities. Prerequisite(s): 50% in RENR 7100 and 50% in RENR 8201 Or by department approval. course outline	4.0
	RENR 8202	Stream Assessment and Restoration This course develops the foundational skills needed to link geomorphic processes and freshwater aquatic habitat in efforts to successfully evaluate and restore freshwater stream habitat in a changing climate. This course focuses on data collection methods and analysis techniques used to determine stream function and health in the Pacific Northwest. Topics include physical stream processes and their link to signs of habitat degradation, evaluating fish habitat and channel substrate for spawning suitability, and using digital tools to evaluate historical channel changes. Students will also learn methods for increasing stream habitat complexity, designing off-channel habitat, evaluating barriers to fish passage, low-tech restoration strategies, and effectively communicating about restoration with the public. Prerequisite(s): 50% passing grade in RENR 8201 or by the acceptance into the BSc in ER program or by department approval course outline	4.0
	RENR 8300	Applied Research Project 1* Designed as the capstone to the Ecological Restoration Program, this is the first of a two-course series that entails students working in small groups to further develop knowledge and hands-on skills needed to plan and implement ecological restoration activities. This course entails student teams identifying sites on which to focus for the two-course series, as well as developing detailed site assessments and restoration goals/objectives.Projects must be approved by the instructors, though may focus on one or a combination of the steps critical to the restoration process (i.e., projects may focus on designing/planning, implementing, monitoring, or reviewing/assessing restoration). Students will submit multiple written documents for review. Class meetings will entail a variety of activities designed to complement project development. This course will emphasizes high levels of student responsibility in developing project goals and objectives. At regular intervals, instructors will provide assessment of progress. However, groups are strongly encouraged to communicate with instructors as often as needed about challenges and opportunities encountered. Prerequisite(s): 50% in MATH 7100 and 50% in RENR 7007 and 50% in RENR 8301 course outline	4.0
	RENR 8301	Research Design & Implementation The goal of Research Design and Implementation is to provide students with the tools and knowledge to effectively design, implement, and use research as the basis for making appropriate decisions in designing and implementing restoration activities. To meet this goal, we will discuss some fundamental concepts including: science, the scientific method, reliable knowledge, poor science, and experimental design. We'll examine how to ask 'why' questions, how to design appropriate research/monitoring plans to address these questions, and how to package this information (including project budgets) into an informative, scientifically-defensible proposal on a chosen ecological restoration activity. This course is designed to strengthen critical thinking skills when reviewing current information and when formulating new activities in ecological restoration. The course is a discussion-based course where concepts and ideas are discussed among the students and by the students. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	3.0
**And complete one course from the list of Ecological Restoration specific elective courses. Electives will vary depending on needs of the program and industry. Elective course offerings will be determined by the department.

Level 8 (Winter - 15 weeks)			Credits
	LIBS 7002	Applied Ethics Fosters abilities and values required for ethical decision making at work. Develops skills in logical analysis, a working knowledge of moral principles and theories, and the ability to diagnose and resolve moral disagreements commonly found at work. Examines and applies moral principles to historically famous cases in manufacturing, human resources, management, engineering, health care, and computing. Prerequisite(s): BCIT ENGL 1177, or 6 credits BCIT Communication at 1100-level or above, or 3 credits of a university/college first-year social science or humanities course. course outline	3.0
	RENR 7002	Environmental Assessment This course covers the history, purpose and methods of environmental impact assessment (EIA). The purpose and an overview of approaches to EIA are presented and the Environmental Assessment Act of BC will be used as an example of environmental assessment (EA) policy and procedure.. Environmental assessment procedures according to Canadian Standards Association (CSA) will also be discussed. Examples of EA in other jurisdictions (e.g., USA, South America, et al.) will be reviewed. Methods and techniques for assessing environmental impacts and actions, such as avoidance, mitigation, reclamation or restoration, are surveyed and critically examined through class discussions, guest speakers and case studies. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	3.0
	RENR 8103	Conservation Biology Conservation biology is the science of biology that looks at human impacts on biological diversity and possible means to prevent extinction of native species. Topics to be covered in this course include: principles of conservation biology and biological diversity, biological diversity of British Columbia, value of biological diversity, threats to biological diversity, invasive species management, climate change and its impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity, species at risk, habitat loss and fragmentation, island biogeography theory, and the species area relationship as it relates to biodiversity conservation and the design and planning of protected areas. Field sessions outside of scheduled class time will be required. Prerequisite(s): 50% in RENR 7100 and 50% in RENR 8001 Or by department approval. course outline	4.0
	RENR 8400	Applied Research Project 2* In conjunction with an industry sponsor, students will undertake a research project related to ecological restoration. The research project must contain elements that are innovative, experimental, or exploratory in nature. A department committee will supervise the progress of the project, provide guidance and direction where appropriate, and evaluate the final report. The goal of the course is to provide students with an opportunity to work independently on an industry sponsored applied research project. In doing so, students will learn to rely on their critical thinking and analysis skills to investigate, evaluate, synergize, develop, and implement a pragmatic approach toward solving an environmental research problem. Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into the Ecological Restoration degree program or by departmental approval. course outline	5.0
*And complete one course from the list of Ecological Restoration specific elective courses. Electives will vary depending on needs of the program and industry. Elective course offerings will be determined by the department. Note: For Part-time Studies, Program Head approval is required prior to registration for RENR 8300 Applied Research Project and RENR 8400 Applied Research Project 2

General Education Component			Credits
LIBS 7001, LIBS 7002, RENR 7008, and RENR 8301, are accepted as General Education electives. Courses are completed in Levels 5-8. **Ecological Restoration Specific Electives Complete one course in Level 7 and one course in Level 8:
	RENR 8104	Applications of Fire in Ecosystem Restoration The course reviews and expands upon the fundamentals of fire science, documents the ecological role of fire in British Columbia’s terrestrial ecosystems and examines fire as a management tool for various applications, such as biodiversity, fuel management, wildlife habitat, and rehabilitation of degraded forest, range and other wildland ecosystems. Prerequisite(s): 50% in RENR 7000 and 50% in RENR 7100 Or by department approval. course outline	4.0
	RENR 8106	Wetland and Estuary Restoration This course covers the fundamentals of wetland and estuary form, function, classification and restoration in Canada. The wetland section of the course covers wetland classification, examines mechanisms of wetland loss and the importance of wetlands in storing carbon, and the physical, chemical and biological mechanisms by which constructed wetlands remove pollutants from urban storm water. The steps for building groundwater wetlands, surface water wetlands, wetlands with liners and floating surface wetlands will be examined, in addition to the steps for building and maintaining constructed wetlands. The estuary section of the course covers estuary classification, reviews the ecological importance of estuaries and reviews the physical, chemical and biological nature of estuaries. Procedures for restoring estuaries is covered, including dealing with invasive species (plant and animal) and legacy contaminants. The course will focus on re-establishing the carbon flux and storage in the estuaries through re-planting of sub tidal eelgrass, emergent sedges and strategic placement of large woody debris. Students will participate in a field trip to design a wetland for construction the following year, construct a wetland, or monitor the performance of a recently constructed wetland. Prerequisite(s): 50% in RENR 7100 Or by department approval. course outline	4.0
	RENR 8107	Restoring Wildlife Populations Restoration plans must take into account the needs of current or desired wildlife species in project areas. This course gives ecologists, restorationists, administrators, and other professionals involved with restoration projects the tools they need to understand essential ecological concepts, helping them to design restoration projects that can improve conditions for native species of wildlife. It also offers specific guidance and examples on how various projects have been designed and implemented. This course interweaves theoretical and practical aspects of wildlife biology that are directly applicable to the restoration and conservation of animals. It provides an understanding of the fundamentals of wildlife populations and wildlife-habitat relationships as it explores the concept of habitat, its historic development, components, spatial-temporal relationships, and role in land management. It applies these concepts in developing practical tools for professionals. The course is based on Morrison, M.L. 2009. (Restoring Wildlife: Ecological Concepts and Practical Applications) and Maehr et al. 2001 (Large Mammal Restoration), both published by Island Press, Washington, USA. Case studies will be used to illustrate concepts while field labs will train students on key concepts. Prerequisite(s): 50% in RENR 7100 Or by department approval. course outline	4.0
Note: ASER 329 Mining Reclamation (UVIC course) is also acceptable. Not all courses are offered every term. Check with Program Head.

Total Credits:			72.0

Check current availability of courses for this program.

Transfer credit

Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.

Program Details

The delivery methods for the Bachelor of Science in Ecological Restoration are a combination of classroom-based delivery, hands-on field applications and distributed learning modes. Instruction methods include group and individual projects, group activities, case studies, class presentations, guest lectures by active restoration specialists, laboratory sessions, field labs and exercises, and an applied research project.

A key component of the Ecological Restoration undergraduate degree are the field visits to active restoration projects in the Lower Mainland and other parts of the province. Students in the program go on several multi-day field trips to locations like Squamish, Lillooet, Merritt, Logan Lake, Kamloops, Vancouver Island and throughout the Lower Mainland. Real-world ecological restoration scenarios will be presented through assignments and team-based projects within courses, with a capstone Applied Research Project being the culmination of applied learning in the program.

Program length

Approximately 24 months for the full-time program.

Part-time students may proceed at a pace of their choice, but must complete the program within seven years.

Grading

Students must obtain a mark of 50% or better based on assignments, exercises, quizzes, exams and projects, as indicated in the individual course outlines.

Program delivery

In person: Both full-time and part-time programs are delivered on campus.

Program location

Full-time and Part-time:
Burnaby Campus
3700 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby, BC

Graduating & Jobs

Job Opportunities

There is currently a shortage of qualified restoration biologists and practitioners trained in the techniques needed to restore terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in British Columbia and other jurisdictions in Canada and abroad. This program will provide a solid foundation for students wishing to embark upon a career involving the conservation, maintenance and restoration of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Graduates will be qualified for employment with organizations whose mandates involve the restoration of natural ecosystems, particularly fish and wildlife habitats. Upon graduation, students will have the skills and knowledge to qualify for existing positions and develop rewarding careers with municipal, regional, provincial and federal government agencies, private industry, stewardship groups and other NGOs as restoration biologists in training, resource management technicians, and habitat restoration specialists.

Graduate employment outcomes

The BCIT student outcomes report presents summary findings from the annual survey of former students administered by BC Stats one to two years after graduation. These reports combine the last three years of available results for the 2020-2022 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2019-2021 graduates and for Degree 2017-2019 graduates. The reports are organized into three-page summaries containing information on graduates’ labour market experiences and opinions regarding their education. More detailed information can be accessed at the BC Student Outcomes website.

To view these results, you may need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.

Ecological Restoration

Professional associations

Graduates from BCIT’s Degree program in Ecological Restoration, who have completed the first two years in BCIT’s Fish, Wildlife and Recreation program will meet the academic requirements for application into the College of Applied Biology.

Graduates from the ER program who have completed their previous education at another institution should complete the Academic Self-Assessment Tool for R.P.Bio. to determine whether their prior education meets the entry requirements of the College of Applied Biology.

Faculty, Advisors & Staff

Program Head

Eric M. Anderson, PhD

Contact Information

Faculty and Program Head, Ecological Restoration (BSc)
British Columbia Institute of Technology
3700 Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby, BC V5G 3H2
T: 604.456.1085 | Eric_anderson@bcit.ca

Education

Post-doctoral research at: Simon Fraser University (Centre for Wildlife Ecology), Environment and Climate Change Canada (Pacific Wildlife Research Centre), and University of British Columbia
MSc and PhD in Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming
Graduate Program in Environmental Education, Teton Science School/Utah State University
BSc in Mathematics, University of Puget Sound

Work Experience

Dr. Eric M. Anderson is Program Head of the Ecological Restoration BSc Program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. He and his BCIT students have conducted applied ecological research with a range of partners, such as Metro Vancouver, Ducks Unlimited Canada, City of Vancouver, Delta Farmland & Wildlife Trust, and Squamish River Watershed Society. Eric is also a Research Fellow of the Pacific WildLife Foundation, a Science Advisor for SeaDoc Society (UC Davis), a Research Scientist at Friday Harbor Labs (U. of Washington), and an Adjunct Professor at Simon Fraser University (SFU). He completed his MSc and PhD in Zoology and Physiology at the U. of Wyoming, and conducted postdoctoral research at SFU (Centre for Wildlife Ecology), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) Pacific Wildlife Research Centre, and the University of British Columbia (UBC).

Eric’s research focuses especially on the ecology and conservation of nearshore ecosystems along the
Pacific Coast. Some recent research projects include:

Causes of mortality in a Harbor Seal population at carrying capacity (with SeaDoc Society, The Whale Museum, Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, Animal Health Center)
Effects of proposed off-shore wind power development in Haida Gwaii on marine birds (with SFU, ECCC)
Functional dependencies of sea ducks on seagrass beds and herring spawn (with SFU, ECCC)
Effects of trace elements on sea duck nutritional status (with Southern Illinois University, with SFU, ECCC)

Selected Publications

(*Denotes undergraduate or MSc student authors):

Brooks, M.L., J.R. Lovvorn, *J. Hallman Behnke, E.M. Anderson. 2021. Detecting silent stressors: trace element effects on nutritional status of declining scoter ducks of Puget Sound, USA. Science of the Total Environment. In press.

*Dickson, R.D., D. Esler, J. Hupp, E.M. Anderson, J.R. Evenson, and J. Barrett. 2021. Dynamics of body mass and foraging effort of Surf Scoters (Melanitta perspicillata) and White-winged Scoters (M. fusca) during remigial moult. Ibis. In review.

Anderson, E.M., *R.D. Dickson, *E.K. Lok, *E.C. Palm, J.-P.L. Savard, D. Bordage, and A. Reed. 2020. Surf Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata), The Birds of the World Online (P.G.Rodewald, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

*Ashley, E.A., J.K. Olson, *T.E. Adler, S. Raverty, E.M. Anderson, S. Jeffries, and J.K. Gaydos. 2020. Causes of mortality in a Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina) population at equilibrium. Frontiers in Marine Science 7:Article 319. doi: 10.3389/fmars.2020.00319

*Whyte, L. M., *J. Sibbald, *A. Kujawiak, *L. Schlectleitner, D., Bondar, M. Taitt, C. Terpsma, and E.M. Anderson. 2020. Effectives of hedgerows on landbird diversity and abundance in agricultural fields. In preparation.

*Law, A.A., *M.E. Threlfall, *B.A. Tijman, E.M. Anderson, S. McCann, G. Searing, and D. Bradbeer. 2017. Diet and prey selection of Barn Swallows (Hirundo rustica) at Vancouver International Airport. Canadian Field-Naturalist 131:26–31.

Lewis, T.L., D. Esler, B.D. Uher-Koch, R.D. Dickson, E.M. Anderson, J.R. Evenson, J.W. Hupp, and P.L. Flint. 2017. Attaching transmitters to waterbirds using one versus two subcutaneous anchors: Retention and survival trade-offs. Wildlife Society Bulletin 41:691–700.

Anderson, E.M., R.D. Dickson, E.K. Lok, E.C. Palm, J.-P.L. Savard, D. Bordage, and A. Reed. 2015. Surf Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata), The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Lovvorn, J.R., E.M. Anderson, *A.R. Rocha, W.W. Larned, J.M. Grebmeier, L.W. Cooper, J.M. Kolts, and C.A. North. 2014. Variable wind, pack ice, and prey dispersion affect the long-term adequacy of protected areas for an Arctic sea duck. Ecological Applications 24:396–412.

*Uher-Koch. B.D., D. Esler, *R.D. Dickson, J.W. Hupp, J.R. Evenson, E.M. Anderson, J. Barrett, J.A. Schmutz. 2014. Survival of Surf Scoters and White-winged Scoters during remigial molt. Journal of Wildlife Management 78:1189–1196.

*Dickson, R.D., E.M. Anderson, and D. Esler. 2014. Status report on the Western Grebe (Aechmophorus occidentalis). Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada.

Wilson, S.D., E.M. Anderson, A. Wilson, P. Arcese, and D.F. Bertram. 2013. Citizen science reveals an extensive shift in the winter distribution of migratory Western Grebes. PLOS ONE 8:e65408.

Palm, E.C.,D. Esler, E.M. Anderson, M.T. Wilson, T.W. Williams, and O. Love. 2013. Baseline corticosterone in wintering marine birds: methodological considerations and ecological patterns. Physiological and Biochemical Zoology 86:346–353.

Palm, E.C.,D. Esler, E.M. Anderson, T.D. Williams, and M.T. Wilson. 2013. Variation in physiology and energy management of wintering White-winged Scoters in relation to local habitat conditions. Condor 115:750–761.

Anderson, E.M., and J.R. Lovvorn. 2012. Seasonal size dynamics of prey mediate complementary functions of mussel and seagrass habitats for an avian predator. Marine Ecology Progress Series 467:219–232.

*Palm, E.C., D. Esler, E.M. Anderson, and M.T. Wilson. 2012. Geographic and temporal variation in diet of wintering White-winged Scoters. Waterbirds 35:577–589.

*Dickson, R.D., D. Esler, J. Hupp, E.M. Anderson, J.R. Evenson, and J. Barrett. 2012. Phenology and duration of remigial moult in Surf Scoters (Melanitta perspicillata) and White-winged Scoters (M. fusca) on the Pacific coast of North America. Canadian Journal of Zoology 90:932–944.

Anderson, E.M., D. Esler, W.S. Boyd, J.R. Evenson, D.R. Nysewander, D.H. Ward, *R.D. Dickson, *B.D. Uher-Koch, *C.S. VanStratt, and J.W. Hupp. 2012. A preliminary assessment of the predator seascape for scoters: predation rates, timing, and predator composition. Canadian Journal of Zoology 90:42–50.

Anderson, E.M., and J.R. Lovvorn. 2011. Contrasts in energy status and marine foraging strategies of White-winged Scoters (Melanitta fusca) and Surf Scoters (M. perspicillata). Auk 128:248−257.

Anderson, E.M., J.R. Lovvorn, D. Esler, W.S. Boyd, and K.C. Stick. 2009. Using predator distributions, diet, and condition to evaluate seasonal foraging sites: sea ducks and herring spawn. Marine Ecology Progress Series 386: 287–302.

Anderson, E.M., J.L. Bower, D.R. Nysewander, J.R. Evenson, and J.R. Lovvorn. 2009. Changes in avifaunal abundance in a heavily used wintering and migration site in Puget Sound, Washington, during 1966–2007. Marine Ornithology 37:19–27.

Anderson, E.M., and J.R. Lovvorn. 2008. Gray whales may increase feeding opportunities for avian benthivores. Marine Ecology Progress Series 360:291–296.

Anderson, E.M., J.R. Lovvorn, and M.T. Wilson. 2008. Reevaluating marine diets of Surf and White-winged scoters: interspecific differences and the importance of soft-bodied prey. Condor 110:285–295.

Anderson, E.M. 2007. Changes in bird communities and willow habitats associated with fed elk. Wilson Journal of Ornithology 119:400–409.

Faculty

Ana Chará-Serna, PhD

Contact Information

Assistant Instructor, Ecological Restoration
British Columbia Institute of Technology
3700 Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby, BC V5G 3H2
ana_chara_serna@bcit.ca

Education

PhD in Freshwater Ecology, Faculty of Forestry, University of British Columbia
MSc in Aquatic Sciences, School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, USA
BSc (Hns) in Biology, Emphasis in Ecology, Universidad del Valle, Colombia

Work Experience

Dr. Ana Chará-Serna is an Assistant Instructor for the Ecological Restoration BSc and MSc programs at BCIT. Ana is an Aquatic Biologist with over 12 years of experience across academia, industry, and the non-profit sector in Colombia and Canada. As an academic researcher, Ana spent more than 7 years investigating how human activities impact biota and functioning of freshwater ecosystems. In the non-profit sector, Ana participated in the assessment of riparian forest restoration projects on stream ecosystems of Colombia. As an environmental consultant, she gained practical experience in the real-world challenge of applying environmental science on monitoring and conservation of aquatic ecosystems in BC.

Most of Ana’s research has focused on the effects of agriculture on freshwater biodiversity, particularly benthic invertebrates, and ecosystem functioning. Her studies have addressed the ecological role of riparian forest buffers in mountainous agricultural landscapes, the effects of local agricultural practices on tropical Andean streams, the interactive effects of multiple agricultural stressors on experimental freshwater ecosystems, and the spatio-temporal dynamics of zooplankton communities in the Illinois River.

Selected Publications

Boyero L., Pérez J., López-Rojo N., Tonin A.M., Correa-Araneda F., Chará-Serna A.M., Et al (2021) Impacts of detritivore diversity loss on instream decomposition are greatest in the tropics. Nature Communications, 12: 3700.

Chara-Serna A.M., Richardson, J.S. (2021) Multiple-Stressor Interactions in Tributaries Alter Downstream Ecosystems in Stream Mesocosm Networks. Water 13(9): 1194

Boyero L., Perez J., Lopez-Rojo N., Tonin A.M., Correa-Araneda F., Chará-Serna A.M., Et al (2021) Latitude dictates plant diversity effects on instream decomposition. Science Advances, 7: eabe7860.

Chará-Serna AM, Casper, A. 2020. How do large river zooplankton communities respond to abiotic and biotic drivers over time? A complex and spatially dependent example. Freshwater Biology, 66(2): 391-405.

Chará-Serna AM, Epele LB, Morrissey CA, Richardson JS. 2019. Nutrients and sediment modify the impacts of a neonicotinoid insecticide on freshwater community structure and ecosystem functioning. Science of the Total Environment, 692: 1291–1303.

Chará-Serna AM, Richardson JS. 2018. Chlorpyrifos interacts with other agricultural stressors to alter stream communities in laboratory microcosms. Ecological Applications, 28(1): 162-176.

Chará-Serna AM, Chará J, Giraldo LP, Zúñiga MC, Allan JD. 2015. Understanding the impacts of agriculture on Andean stream ecosystems of Colombia: a causal analysis using aquatic macroinvertebrates as indicators of biological integrity. Freshwater Science, 34(2): 727-740.

Boyero L, Pearson RG, Swan CM, Hui C, Albariño RJ, Arunachalam M, Callisto M, Chará J, Chará Serna AM, Chauvet E, Cornejo A, Dudgeon D, et al. 2015. Latitudinal gradient of nestedness and its potential drivers in stream detritivores. Ecography, 38: 949-955

Chará-Serna AM, Chará J, Zúñiga MC, Pearson RG. Boyero L. 2012. Diets of leaf litter-associated invertebrates in three tropical streams. Annales de Limnologie – International Journal of Limnology, 48: 139-144.

Boyero L, Pearson RG, Dudgeon D, Ferreira V, Graça MAS, Gessner MO, Boulton AJ, Chauvet E, Yule CM, Albariño RJ, Ramírez A, Helson JE, Callisto M, Arunachalam M, Chará J, Figueroa R, Mathooko JM, Gonçalves JF JR, Moretti MS, Chará-Serna AM, et al. 2012. Global patterns of stream detritivore distribution: implications for biodiversity loss in changing climates. Global Ecology and Biogeography, 21: 134-141.

Giraldo LP, Chará J, Zúñiga MC, Chará-Serna AM, Pedraza GX. 2014. Agricultural land use impacts on aquatic macroinvertebrates in small streams from La Vieja River (Valle del Cauca, Colombia). International Journal of Tropical Biology and Conservation, 62(2):203-219.

Boyero L, Pearson RG, Dudgeon D, Graça MAS, Gessner MO, Albariño RJ, Ferreira V, Yule CM, Boulton AJ, Arunachalam M, Callisto M, Chauvet E, Ramírez A, Chará J, Moretti MS, Gonçalves JF JR, Helson JE, Chará-Serna AM, Encalada AC, et al. 2011. Global distribution of a key trophic guild contrasts with common latitudinal diversity patterns. Ecology, 92 (9): 1839-1848.

Dave Harper

Douglas B. Ransome, PhD, RPBio

Forrest Bjornson, MSc

Kim Ives, MSc, RPBio

Laura Weatherly, MSc, PhD

Lisa Henault, BEd, MSc

Millie Kuyer, BSc, BIT

Staff

Giti Abouhamzeh

Advisory committee

Kevin Shantz, Research Office, Metro Vancouver, Parks Planning & Environment – Chair
Andy Smith, Senior Terrestrial Ecologist/Wildlife Biologist, Ecofish Research
Brian Titaro, Stewardship Coordinator, Metro Vancouver
Bruce Blackwell, Principle, BA Blackwell
Chloe Hartley, Referrals Analyst, Tsleil-Waututh Nation
Dave Scott, Biologist, Raincoast Conservation Foundation
David Polster, President, Polster Environmental Services
Eric Balke, Coordinator-South Coast Conservation Land Management Program, Ducks Unlimited Canada
Gillian Donald, Owner, Donald Functional And Applied Ecology
Jennifer McGuire, Assistant Deputy Minister, Ministry of Environment
Ken Hall, Professor Emeritus, UBC
Marlow Pellatt, Ecological Restoration Specialist, Parks Canada
Natalie Tashe, Project Management Reclamation Planning, Stantec
Pontus Lindgren, Environmental Manager, Westpark Electric

Contact Us

Giti Abouhamzeh
Program Assistant
Tel: 778-331-1392
Email: Giti_Abouhamzeh@bcit.ca

Questions or comments?

Programs and courses are subject to change without notice.