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Program Requirements
This domain (63 credits including core) is open only to students in the B.Sc.(Ag.Env.Sc.) Major in Environment or B.Sc. Major in Environment programs.
The business of food production is an area of human activity with a large and intimate interaction with the environment. As the global population rises, demand for food and food production increases. This demand must be met through a combination of increased productivity of existing agricultural land and by bringing new arable land into production. This is a serious challenge for two main reasons. Firstly, there are environmental impacts of agricultural activities which can be significant and which can be difficult to assess and contain, as the effects range from loss of biodiversity due to increasing farm size, production of biofuels versus food, non-point source pollution of rivers and lakes, and a loss of arable land to urbanization. Secondly, a growing population needs support from a number of different land uses (e.g., urban growth, transportation, water resource use, timber resources, etc.), many of which conflict, and all of which compete with food production land requirements. As the available land resource decreases, land-use competition for what remains will grow more fierce, making the need for smart and informed decision-making related to food production increasingly critical.
Program Prerequisites or Corequisites
All students in this program MUST take these pre- or corequisite courses, or their equivalents. These courses are taken as follows:
One of the following courses or CEGEP equivalent (e.g., CEGEP objective 00XU):
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BIOL 112 Cell and Molecular Biology (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Sci) : The cell: ultrastructure, division, chemical constituents and reactions. Bioenergetics: photosynthesis and respiration. Principles of genetics, the molecular basis of inheritance and biotechnology.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Dent, Joseph Alan; L'Heureux, Anne-Marie; Schöck, Frieder (Winter)
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LSCI 211 Biochemistry 1 (3 credits)
Overview
Life Sciences : Biochemistry of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids; enzymes and coenzymes. Introduction to intermediary metabolism.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015
Instructors: Salavati, Reza; Jardim, Armando; Georges, Elias (Fall) Jardim, Armando; Salavati, Reza (Winter)
One of the following courses or CEGEP equivalent (e.g., CEGEP objective 00XV):
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CHEM 212 Introductory Organic Chemistry 1 (4 credits)
Overview
Chemistry : A survey of reactions of aliphatic and aromatic compounds including modern concepts of bonding, mechanisms, conformational analysis, and stereochemistry.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015, Summer 2015
Instructors: Daoust, Michel; Huot, Mitchell; Pavelka, Laura; Tsantrizos, Youla S (Fall) Daoust, Michel; Huot, Mitchell; Pavelka, Laura; Lumb, Jean-Philip; Gauthier, Jean-Marc (Winter) Pavelka, Laura; Daoust, Michel (Summer)
Fall, Winter, Summer
Prerequisite: CHEM 110 or equivalent.
Corequisite: CHEM 120 or equivalent.
Restriction: Not open to students who are taking or have taken CHEM 211 or equivalent
Each lab section is limited enrolment
Note: Some CEGEP programs provide equivalency for this course. For more information, please see the Department of Chemistry's Web page ().
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FDSC 230 Organic Chemistry (4 credits)
Overview
Food Science : Atomic and molecular structure, modern concepts of bonding, overview of functional groups, conformational analysis, stereochemistry, mechanisms and reactions of aliphatic compounds.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015
Instructors: Yaylayan, Varoujan (Fall) Cherestes, Alice (Winter)
Suggested First Year (U1) Courses
For suggestions on courses to take in your first year (U1), you can consult the "MSE Student Handbook" available on the MSE website (), or contact Kathy Roulet, the Program Adviser (kathy.roulet [at] mcgill.ca).Location Note: When planning their schedule and registering for courses, students should verify where each course is offered because courses for this program are taught at both McGill's Downtown campus and at the Macdonald campus in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue.
Program Requirements
Note: Students are required to take a maximum of 34 credits at the 200 level and a minimum of 15 credits at the 400 level or higher in this program. This includes core and required courses, but does not include the domain prerequisites or corequisites listed above.
Core: Required Courses (18 credits)
Location Note: Core required courses for this program are taught at both McGill's Downtown campus and at the Macdonald campus in Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue. You should register in Section 001 of an ENVR course that you plan to take on the Downtown campus, and in Section 051 of an ENVR course that you plan to take on the Macdonald campus.
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ENVR 200 The Global Environment (3 credits)
Overview
Environment : A systems approach to study the different components of the environment involved in global climate change: the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. The interactions among these components. Their role in global climate change. The human dimension to global change.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Ricciardi, Anthony; Atallah, Eyad Hashem; McCourt, George; Fyles, James W; Fabry, Frederic (Fall)
Fall
Section 001: Downtown Campus
Section 051: Macdonald Campus
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ENVR 201 Society, Environment and Sustainability (3 credits)
Overview
Environment : This course deals with how scientific-technological, socio-economic, political-institutional and behavioural factors mediate society-environment interactions. Issues discussed include population and resources; consumption, impacts and institutions; integrating environmental values in societal decision-making; and the challenges associated with, and strategies for, promoting sustainability. Case studies in various sectors and contexts are used.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Manaugh, Kevin; Barrington-Leigh, Christopher; Kosoy, Nicolas; Bennett, Elena (Fall)
Fall
Section 001: Downtown Campus
Section 051: Macdonald Campus
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ENVR 202 The Evolving Earth (3 credits)
Overview
Environment : Formation of the Earth and the evolution of life. How geological and biological change are the consequence of history, chance, and necessity acting over different scales of space and time. General principles governing the formation of modern landscapes and biotas. Effects of human activities on natural systems.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Leung, Brian; Lechowicz, Martin J; Paquette, Jeanne; McCourt, George; de Blois, Sylvie (Winter)
Winter
Section 001: Downtown Campus
Section 051: Macdonald Campus
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ENVR 203 Knowledge, Ethics and Environment (3 credits)
Overview
Environment : Introduction to cultural perspectives on the environment: the influence of culture and cognition on perceptions of the natural world; conflicts in orders of knowledge (models, taxonomies, paradigms, theories, cosmologies), ethics (moral values, frameworks, dilemmas), and law (formal and customary, rights and obligations) regarding political dimensions of critical environments, resource use, and technologies.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015
Instructors: Goodin, David; Freeman, Julia (Fall) Ellis, Jaye Dana (Winter)
Fall - Macdonald Campus; Winter - Downtown
Section 001: Downtown Campus
Section 051: Macdonald Campus
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ENVR 301 Environmental Research Design (3 credits)
Overview
Environment : Techniques used in design and completion of environmental research projects. Problem definition, data sources and use of appropriate strategies and methodologies. Principles underlying research design are emphasized, including critical thinking, recognizing causal relationships, ideologies and bias in research, and when and where to seek expertise.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015
Instructors: Vaccaro, Ismael; Sengupta, Raja (Fall) Vaccaro, Ismael; Sengupta, Raja; Cardille, Jeffrey; Freeman, Julia (Winter)
Fall-Downtown Campus: Section 001
Winter-Downtown Campus: Section 001; Macdonald Campus: Section 051
Restrictions: Restricted to U2 or higher
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ENVR 400 Environmental Thought (3 credits)
Overview
Environment : Students work in interdisciplinary seminar groups on challenging philosophical, ethical, scientific and practical issues. They will explore cutting-edge ideas and grapple with the reconciliation of environmental imperatives and social, political and economic pragmatics. Activities include meeting practitioners, attending guest lectures, following directed readings, and organizing, leading and participating in seminars.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015
Instructors: Brown, Peter Gilbert; Kosoy, Nicolas (Fall) Goodin, David; Hirose, Iwao; Garver, Geoffrey (Winter)
Fall - Macdonald Campus; Winter - Downtown
Section 001: Downtown Campus
Section 051: Macdonald Campus
Prerequisite: ENVR 203
Restriction: Open only to U3 students, or permission of instructor
Core: Complementary Course - Senior Research Project (3 credits)
Only 3 credits will be applied to the program; extra credits will count as electives.
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AEBI 427 Barbados Interdisciplinary Project (6 credits)
Overview
Biology (Agric & Envir Sc) : The planning of projects and research activities related to tropical food, nutrition, or energy at the local, regional, or national scale in Barbados. Projects and activities designed in consultation with university instructors, government, NGO, or private partners, and prepared by teams of 2-3 students working cooperatively with these mentors.
Terms: Summer 2015
Instructors: Donnelly, Danielle J (Summer)
Restriction(s): Restricted to students that are participating in the Barbados Interdisciplinary Tropical Studies Field Semester
**In addition to Monday and Tuesday scheduled classes, the last day of class will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2014. The exam will be written on the last day of class.
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AGRI 519 Sustainable Development Plans (6 credits)
Overview
Agriculture : Geared for solving real-world environmental problems related to water at the local, regional and international scale in Barbados. Projects to be designed by instructors in consultation with university, government and NGO partners and to be conducted by teams of 2 to 4 students in collaboration with them.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Alli, Inteaz (Fall)
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ENVR 401 Environmental Research (3 credits)
Overview
Environment : Students work in an interdisciplinary team on a real-world research project involving problem definition, methodology development, social, ethical and environmental impact assessment, execution of the study, and dissemination of results to the research community and to the people affected. Teams begin defining their projects during the preceding spring.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Mikkelson, Gregory Matthew; Freeman, Julia; McCourt, George (Fall)
Fall
Prerequisite: ENVR 301
Restriction: B.A. Faculty Program in Environment, B.A.&Sc. Faculty Program in Environment , B.Sc.(Ag.Env.Sc.) and B.Sc. Major in Environment, and Diploma in Environment.
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ENVR 451 Research in Panama (6 credits)
Overview
Environment : Research projects will be developed by instructors in consultation with Panamanian universities, government agencies and non-governmental organizations. Project groups will consist of four to six students working with a Panamanian institution. Topics will be relevant to Panama: e.g., protection of the Canal watershed, economical alternatives to deforestation, etc.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Spalding, Ana (Winter)
Winter
Restriction: students in the Panama Field Semester program. Offered in Panama only
Domain: Required Courses (6 credits)
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AEBI 210 Organisms 1 (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Agric & Envir Sc) : The biology of plants and plant-based systems in managed and natural terrestrial environments. The interactions between autotrophs and soil organisms and selected groups of animals with close ecological and evolutionary connections with plants (e.g., herbivores and pollinators) will be explored in lecture and laboratory.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Bede, Jacqueline; Ajjamada, Kushalappa; Donnelly, Danielle J (Fall)
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AGRI 340 Principles of Ecological Agriculture (3 credits)
Overview
Agriculture : Focus on low-input, sustainable, and organic agriculture: the farm as an ecosystem; complex system theory; practical examples of soil management, pest control, integrated crop and livestock production, and marketing systems.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Begg, Caroline B (Winter)
3 lectures and one 2-hour seminar
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken AGRI 250
Domain: Complementary Courses (36 credits)
36 credits of complementary courses selected as follows:
18 credits - Fundamentals
12 credits - Applied Sciences
6 credits - Social Sciences/Humanities
The Applied and Social Sciences courses are grouped according to subtopics. Students can choose their courses from one subtopic, or a combination of subtopics.
Fundamentals (18 credits)
One of the following Statistics courses or equivalent:
Note: Credit given for Statistics courses is subject to certain restrictions. Students in Science should consult the "Course Overlap" information in the "Course Requirements" section for the Faculty of Science.
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AEMA 310 Statistical Methods 1 (3 credits)
Overview
Mathematics (Agric&Envir Sci) : Measures of central tendency and dispersion; binomial and Poisson distributions; normal, chi-square, Student's t and Fisher-Snedecor F distributions; estimation and hypothesis testing; simple linear regression and correlation; analysis of variance for simple experimental designs.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015
Instructors: Dutilleul, Pierre R L; Gravel, Valérie (Fall) Dutilleul, Pierre R L; Gravel, Valérie (Winter)
Two 1.5-hour lectures and one 2-hour lab
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MATH 203 Principles of Statistics 1 (3 credits)
Overview
Mathematics & Statistics (Sci) : Examples of statistical data and the use of graphical means to summarize the data. Basic distributions arising in the natural and behavioural sciences. The logical meaning of a test of significance and a confidence interval. Tests of significance and confidence intervals in the one and two sample setting (means, variances and proportions).
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015, Summer 2015
Instructors: Best, Ana; Wolfson, David B (Fall) Correa, Jose Andres (Winter) Correa, Jose Andres (Summer)
No calculus prerequisites
Restriction: This course is intended for students in all disciplines. For extensive course restrictions covering statistics courses see Section 3.6.1 of the Arts and of the Science sections of the calendar regarding course overlaps.
You may not be able to receive credit for this course and other statistic courses. Be sure to check the Course Overlap section under Faculty Degree Requirements in the Arts or Science section of the Calendar. Students should consult for information regarding transfer credits for this course.
One of:
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ANSC 250 Principles of Animal Science (3 credits)
Overview
Animal Science : Introduction to the scientific principles underlying the livestock and poultry industries. Emphasis will be placed on the breeding, physiology and nutrition of animals raised for the production of food and fibre.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Wade, Kevin (Fall)
Fall
3 lectures and one 2-hour lab
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PLNT 300 Cropping Systems (3 credits)
Overview
Plant Science : Application of plant science and soil science to production of agronomic and horticultural crops. Use and sustainability of fertilization, weed control, crop rotation, tillage, drainage and irrigation practices.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Watson, Alan K (Fall)
3 lectures and one 3-hour lab
Prerequisite: AEBI 210
One of:
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BIOL 202 Basic Genetics (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Sci) : Introduction to basic principles, and to modern advances, problems and applications in the genetics of higher and lower organisms with examples representative of the biological sciences.
Terms: Winter 2015, Summer 2015
Instructors: Schoen, Daniel J; Moon, Nam Sung; Hendricks, Shelton (Winter) Dankort, David; Hipfner, David (Summer)
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LSCI 204 Genetics (3 credits)
Overview
Life Sciences : The course integrates classical, molecular and population genetics of animals, plants, bacteria and viruses. The aim is to understand the flow of genetic information within a cell, within families and in populations. Emphasis will be placed on problem solving based learning. The laboratory exercises will emphasize the interpretation of genetic experimental data.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Charron, Jean-Benoit (Fall)
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken BIOL 202.
One of:
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ENVB 210 The Biophysical Environment (3 credits)
Overview
Environmental Biology : With reference to the ecosystems in the St Lawrence lowlands, the principles and processes governing climate-landform-water-soil-vegetation systems and their interactions will be examined in lecture and laboratory. Emphasis on the natural environment as an integrated system.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Begg, Caroline B (Fall)
Fall
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken SOIL 210
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GEOG 305 Soils and Environment (3 credits)
Overview
Geography : Discussion of the major properties of soils; soil formation, classification and mapping; land capability assessment; the role and response of soils in natural and disturbed environments (e.g. global change, ecosystem disturbance).
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Moore, Timothy R (Fall)
Fall
3 hours and laboratory
Prerequisite: GEOG 203 or introductory course in biology or geology
One of:
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BIOL 308 Ecological Dynamics (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Sci) : Principles of population, community, and ecosystem dynamics: population growth and regulation, species interactions, dynamics of competitive interactions and of predator/prey systems; evolutionary dynamics.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Fussmann, Gregor; Guichard, Frederic (Fall)
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ENVB 305 Population & Community Ecology (3 credits)
Overview
Environmental Biology : Interactions between organisms and their environment; historical and current perspectives in applied and theoretical population and community ecology. Principles of population dynamics, feedback loops, and population regulation. Development and structure of communities; competition, predation and food web dynamics. Biodiversity science in theory and practice.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Buddle, Christopher (Winter)
Winter
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken WILD 205
One of:
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AGEC 200 Principles of Microeconomics (3 credits)
Overview
Agricultural Economics : The field of economics as it relates to the activities of individual consumers, firms and organizations. Emphasis is on the application of economic principles and concepts to everyday decision making and to the analysis of current economic issues.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Kosoy, Nicolas (Fall)
Fall
3 lectures
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ECON 208 Microeconomic Analysis and Applications (3 credits)
Overview
Economics (Arts) : A university-level introduction to demand and supply, consumer behaviour, production theory, market structures and income distribution theory.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015, Summer 2015
Instructors: Fatema, Naureen; Japaridze, Irakli; Dickinson, Paul (Fall) Sen Choudhury, Eesha (Winter) Sayour, Nagham (Summer)
Applied Sciences (12 credits)
Food and Human Health
* Note: Students take FDSC 200 or NUTR 207, but not both.
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AGRI 411 Global Issues on Development, Food and Agriculture (3 credits)
Overview
Agriculture : International development and world food security and challenges in developing countries. Soil and water management, climate change, demographic issues, plant and animal resources conservation, bio-products and biofuels, economic and environmental issues specially in tropical and sub-tropical regions. Globalization, sustainable development, technology transfer and human resources needs for rural development.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Monardes, Humberto (Winter)
Winter
Two 2-hour conferences
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FDSC 200 Introduction to Food Science (3 credits) *
Overview
Food Science : This course enables one to gain an appreciation of the scope of food science as a discipline. Topics include introductions to chemistry, processing, packaging, analysis, microbiology, product development, sensory evaluation and quality control as they relate to food science.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Goodridge, Lawrence; Sedman, Jacqueline (Fall)
Fall
3 lectures
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FDSC 535 Food Biotechnology (3 credits)
Overview
Food Science : Review of fundamental concepts of biochemistry, microbiology and biochemical engineering as it relates to traditional food fermentation as well as novel food biotechnological production.
Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2014-2015 academic year.
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MICR 331 Microbial Ecology (3 credits)
Overview
Microbiology (Agric&Envir Sc) : The ecology of microorganisms, primarily bacteria and archaea, and their roles in biogeochemical cycles will be discussed. Microbial interactions with the environment, plants, animals and other microbes emphasizing the underlying genetics and physiology. Diversity, evolution (microbial phylogenetics) and the application of molecular biology in microbial ecology.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Driscoll, Brian T (Winter)
Winter
Restriction: Not open to students who have successfully completed NRSC 331
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NUTR 207 Nutrition and Health (3 credits) *
Overview
Nutrition and Dietetics : Provides students who have a basic biology/chemistry background with the fundamental information on how macronutrients, vitamins and minerals are metabolized in the body, followed by application to evaluate current issues of maximizing health and disease prevention at different stages of the lifecycle.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Wykes, Linda J (Fall)
Fall
3 lectures
Corequisites: AEBI 202 or CEGEP Objective 00XU or FDSC 230 or CEGEP Objective 00XV
Restriction: Not open to students who take NUTR 200 or EDKP 292
Restriction: Science students in physical science and psychology programs who wish to take this course should see the Arts and Science Student Affairs Office for permission to register.
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NUTR 403 Nutrition in Society (3 credits)
Overview
Nutrition and Dietetics : Health systems, public health and political influence in Canada, as related to nutrition. Assessment of food and nutrition related issues of communities/populations; nutrition surveillance data; sociocultural and economic influences on food choice and behaviour; health promotion planning and disease prevention; evaluation of community interventions.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015
Instructors: Marquis, Grace (Fall) Johns, Timothy A (Winter)
Fall
3 hour conference
Prerequisite: NUTR 337
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NUTR 501 Nutrition in Developing Countries (3 credits)
Overview
Nutrition and Dietetics : This course will cover the major nutritional problems in developing countries. The focus will be on nutrition and health and emphasize young children and other vulnerable groups. The role of diet and disease for each major nutritional problem will be discussed.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Marquis, Grace (Fall)
Fall
2 lectures and one seminar
Prerequisite: For undergraduate students, consent of instructor required
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PARA 410 Environment and Infection (3 credits)
Overview
Parasitology : Infectious pathogens of humans and animals and their impact on the global environment are considered. The central tenet is that infectious pathogens are environmental risk factors. The course considers their impact on the human condition and juxtaposes the impact of control and treatment measures and environmental change.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Scott, Marilyn (Winter)
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PHAR 303 Principles of Toxicology (3 credits)
Overview
Pharmacology and Therapeutics : Fundamental mechanisms by which toxic compounds damage a biological system (organelle, cell, organ, organism, ecosystem). Detection and quantification of toxicity and risk/benefit analysis are considered. Selected agents of current risk to human health or the environment are evaluated in depth.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Robaire, Bernard; Hales, Barbara F; Zorychta, Edith (Winter)
Food Production
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AEBI 421 Tropical Horticultural Ecology (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Agric & Envir Sc) : A comprehensive survey of the major fruit, vegetable, turf, and ornamental crops grown in Barbados. Effect of cultural practices, environment, pests and pathogens, social and touristic activities, and importation of horticultural produce on local horticulture.
Terms: Summer 2015
Instructors: Donnelly, Danielle J; Gravel, Valérie (Summer)
Restriction: Restricted to students that are participating in the Barbados Interdisciplinary Tropical Studies Field Semester
**Due to the intensive nature of this course, the standard add/drop and withdrawal deadlines do not apply. Add/drop is the third lecture day and withdrawal is the sixth lecture day.
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AEBI 425 Tropical Energy and Food (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Agric & Envir Sc) : Tropical biofuel crops, conversion processes and final products, particularly energy and greenhouse gas balances and bionutraceuticals. Topics include effects of process extraction during refining on biofuel economics, the food versus fuel debate and impact of biofuels and bioproducts on tropical agricultural economics.
Terms: Summer 2015
Instructors: Smith, Donald L; Kubow, Stan; Lefsrud, Mark (Summer)
Restriction: Restricted to students that are participating in the Barbados Interdisciplinary Tropical Studies Field Semester
**Due to the intensive nature of this course, the standard add/drop and withdrawal deadlines do not apply. Add/drop is the third lecture day and withdrawal is the sixth lecture day.
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AGRI 215 Agro-Ecosystems Field Course (3 credits)
Overview
Agriculture : Through case studies and field trips, students will examine the problems and constraints within the Canadian agro-ecosystem, including the interrelationships among food production, the environment, agricultural policy and social issues. Research in this field of study will also be introduced.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Begg, Caroline B; Cue, Roger I (Fall)
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken PLNT 215.
This course carries an additional charge of $51.30 to cover the cost of transportation (bus rental) for local field trips to agricultural enterprises. The fee is refundable only during the withdrawal with full refund period.
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AGRI 325 Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security (3 credits)
Overview
Agriculture : Exposure to Cuba's agricultural sector, regulations and policies as a model to investigate sustainable agricultural practices (e.g., use of organic fertilizers, ecological management of pests and weeds, crop rotation, water conservation, etc.) within the context of land use and food security issues.
Terms: Summer 2015
Instructors: Mustafa, Arif; Major, Julie; Seguin, Philippe (Summer)
Prerequisite: AGEC 200 or equivalent or permission of instructor
Lectures and visits will be jointly delivered by local Cuban experts and McGill Staff. Lectures (25%) and field visits (75%). Final year students should note that graduation may be delayed.
This course has a fee of $2452.80, a portion of which is tax receiptable on the T2202A, and includes airfare to and from Cuba, internal travel (by coach), accommodation and most of the meals for the 14 days, as well as instructor costs.
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AGRI 550 Sustained Tropical Agriculture (3 credits)
Overview
Agriculture : Contrast theory and practice in defining agricultural environmental "challenges" in the Neotropics. Indigenous and appropriate technological means of mitigation. Soil management and erosion, water scarcity, water over-abundance, and water quality. Explore agro-ecosystem protection via field trips and project designs. Institutional context of conservation strategies, NGO links, and public participation.
Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2014-2015 academic year.
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BIOL 385 Plant Growth and Development (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Sci) : Physiological, biochemical and molecular processes involved in growth and development of the plant body; formation of new tissues and organs; photomorphogenesis, fruit growth and ripening; programmed cell death and senescence; growth and development in extreme environments.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Dhindsa, Rajinder S (Fall)
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ENTO 352 Biocontrol of Pest Insects (3 credits)
Overview
Entomology : Modern concepts of integrated control techniques and principles of insect pest management, with emphasis on biological control (use of predators, parasites and pathogens against pest insects), population monitoring, and manipulation of environmental, behavioral and physiological factors in the pest's way of life. Physical, cultural, and genetic controls and an introduction to the use of non-toxic biochemical controls (attractants, repellents, pheromones, antimetabolites).
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Dunphy, Gary Brian (Winter)
Winter
Restriction: Not open to students who have previously taken ENTO 452
3 lectures
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PLNT 302 Forage Crops and Pastures (3 credits)
Overview
Plant Science : Ecology, management, and physiology of forage crops with emphasis on establishment, growth, maintenance, harvesting, and preservation; value as livestock feed in terms of nutritional composition and role in environmental conservation.
Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2014-2015 academic year.
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PLNT 307 Agroecology of Vegetables and Fruits (3 credits)
Overview
Plant Science : Application of ecological concepts and principles to the design and management of selected vegetable and fruit agroecosystems. Includes selection of varieties and management from seedling to harvest to storage.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Gravel, Valérie (Winter)
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PLNT 353 Plant Structure and Function (3 credits)
Overview
Plant Science : The general anatomy and physiology of vascular plants with emphasis on how physiological processes influence function.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Bede, Jacqueline (Winter)
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PLNT 434 Weed Biology and Control (3 credits)
Overview
Plant Science : A study of the biology of undesirable vegetation as related to the principles of prevention and physical, biological, managerial and chemical control. Emphasis on the environmental impact of the different methods of weed control.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Watson, Alan K (Winter)
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SOIL 315 Soil Nutrient Management (3 credits)
Overview
Soil Science : Plant nutrients in the soil, influence of soil properties on nutrient absorption and plant growth, use of organic and inorganic fertilizers.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Whalen, Joann Karen (Fall)
Fall
3 lectures and one lab
Prerequisites: ENVB 210 or permission of instructor
Natural Resources and Natural Resource Impacts
* Note: Students take BIOL 465 or WILD 421, but not both.
** Note: Students take BREE 217 or GEOG 322, but not both.
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AGRI 435 Soil and Water Quality Management (3 credits)
Overview
Agriculture : Management of soil and water systems for sustainability. Cause of soil degradation, surface and groundwater contamination by agricultural chemicals and toxic pollutants. Human health and safety concerns. Water-table management. Soil and water conservation techniques will be examined with an emphasis on methods of prediction and best management practices.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Qi, Zhiming; Madramootoo, Chandra A; Biswas, Asim (Fall)
Fall
3 lectures and one 3-hour lab
This course carries an additional charge of $13 to cover the cost of transportation with respect to a field trip. The fee is refundable only during the withdrawal with full refund period.
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AGRI 452 Water Resources in Barbados (3 credits)
Overview
Agriculture : Physical environment challenges, centered on water, being faced by an island nation. Guest speakers, field study tours and laboratory tests. Private, government and NGO institutional context of conservation strategies, and water quantity and quality analyses for water management specific to Barbados.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Gehr, Ronald; Jasechko, Scott (Fall)
Restrictions: Enrolment in full "Barbados Field Study Semester". Not open to students who have taken CIVE 452.
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BIOL 465 Conservation Biology (3 credits) *
Overview
Biology (Sci) : Discussion of relevant theoretical and applied issues in conservation biology. Topics: biodiversity, population viability analysis, community dynamics, biology of rarity, extinction, habitat fragmentation, social issues.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Gonzalez, Andrew; Gray, Heather; Green, David M (Fall)
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BIOL 553 Neotropical Environments (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Sci) : Ecology revisited in view of tropical conditions. Exploring species richness. Sampling and measuring biodiversity. Conservation status of ecosystems, communities and species. Indigenous knowledge.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Barrios, Eliseo Hector (Winter)
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BREE 217 Hydrology and Water Resources (3 credits) **
Overview
Bioresource Engineering : Measurements and analysis of components of the water cycle. Precipitation, evaporation, infiltration and groundwater. Analysis of hydrologic data. Hydrograph theory. Hydrologic estimations for design of water control projects; flood control and reservoir routing. Integrated watershed management and water conservation. Water management systems for environmental protection.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Prasher, Shiv (Winter)
3 lectures, one 2-hour lab
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken ABEN 217.
Note: This course carries an additional course charge of $30 to cover transportation costs for two field trips, which may include a visit to a national weather station and a trip to gain hands-on experience on monitoring water flow in streams.
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BREE 322 Organic Waste Management (3 credits)
Overview
Bioresource Engineering : An introduction to engineering aspects of handling, storage and treatment of all biological and food industry wastes. Design criteria will be elaborated and related to characteristics of wastes. Physical, chemical and biological treatment systems.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Clark, Grant (Fall)
2 lectures and one 2-hour lab
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken ABEN 322.
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BREE 518 Bio-Treatment of Wastes (3 credits)
Overview
Bioresource Engineering : Special topics concerning control of pollution agents from the agricultural industry; odour control, agricultural waste treatment including biological digestion, flocculants, land disposal and sedimentation, pesticide transport.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Clark, Grant (Winter)
One 3 hour lecture
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken ABEN 518.
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GEOG 322 Environmental Hydrology (3 credits) **
Overview
Geography : Quantitative, experimental study of the principles governing the movement of water at or near the Earth's surface and how the research relates to the chemistry and biology of ecosystems.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Roulet, Nigel Thomas; Lehner, Bernhard (Winter)
Winter
3 hours
Prerequisite: GEOG 203 or equivalent
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NRSC 333 Pollution and Bioremediation (3 credits)
Overview
Natural Resource Sciences : The environmental contaminants which cause pollution; sources, amounts and transport of pollutants in water, air and soil; waste management.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Whyte, Lyle; Basu, Niladri (Fall)
Fall
3 lectures
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken WILD 333
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SOIL 510 Environmental Soil Chemistry (3 credits)
Overview
Soil Science : Soil chemical principles are presented in a series of problem sets covering basic concepts as well as applications to environmental and agricultural situations.
Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Winter
Prerequisite: A course in Soil Science or permission of instructor
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken SOIL 410.
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WILD 401 Fisheries and Wildlife Management (4 credits)
Overview
Resource Development : Principles of fisheries and wildlife management are considered and current practices of research and management are discussed.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Solomon, Christopher; Humphries, Murray Mitchell (Fall)
Fall
3 lectures, one 2-hour lab and one week field laboratory prior to fall term
Prerequisite: PLNT 358
A $307.80 fee is charged to all students registered in WILD 401, Fisheries and Wildlife Management, a course that has a required field trip. This fee is used to support the cost of excursions, accommodations, food and fees associated with visiting a research facility in New York. The Department of Natural Resource Sciences subsidizes a portion of the cost of this compulsory activity.
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WILD 421 Wildlife Conservation (3 credits) *
Overview
Resource Development : Study of current controversial issues focusing on wildlife conservation. Topics include: animal rights, exotic species, ecotourism, urban wildlife, multi-use of national parks, harvesting of wildlife, biological controls, and endangered species.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Brammer, Jeremy (Winter)
Winter
3 lectures
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken NRSC 421.
Social Science (6 credits)
Economic and Resource Policy
* Note: Students take AGEC 333 or ECON 405, but not both.
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AGEC 320 Intermediate Microeconomic Theory (3 credits)
Overview
Agricultural Economics : An intermediate theory course in agricultural economics, dealing with economic concepts as applied to agricultural production and cost functions. Includes theory and application of linear programming as related to production decisions.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Mukhopadhyay, Kakali (Winter)
Winter
3 lectures
Prerequisite: AGEC 200 or equivalent
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AGEC 333 Resource Economics (3 credits) *
Overview
Agricultural Economics : The role of resources in the environment, use of resources, and management of economic resources within the firm or organization. Problem-solving, case studies involving private and public decision-making in organizations are utilized.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Thomassin, Paul (Fall)
Fall
Prerequisites: AGEC 200 or equivalent
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AGEC 430 Agriculture, Food and Resource Policy (3 credits)
Overview
Agricultural Economics : Examination of North American and international agriculture, food and resource policies, policy instruments, programs and their implications. Economic analysis applied to the principles, procedures and objectives of various policy actions affecting agriculture, and the environment.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Thomassin, Paul; Mukhopadhyay, Kakali (Winter)
Winter
3 lectures
Prerequisites: AGEC 200 or equivalent
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AGEC 442 Economics of International Agricultural Development (3 credits)
Overview
Agricultural Economics : The course deals with economic aspects of international development with emphasis on the role of food, agriculture and the resource sector in the economy of developing countries. Topics will include world food analysis, development project analysis and policies for sustainable development. Development case studies will be used.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Lowitt, Kristen (Winter)
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ECON 225 Economics of the Environment (3 credits)
Overview
Economics (Arts) : A study of the application of economic theory to questions of environmental policy. Particular attention will be given to the measurement and regulation of pollution, congestion and waste and other environmental aspects of specific economies.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Lord, Guillaume (Fall)
Restriction: Not open to students who have taken 154-325 or 154-425
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ECON 405 Natural Resource Economics (3 credits) *
Overview
Economics (Arts) : Topics include: Malthusian and Ricardian Scarcity; optimal depletion of renewable and non-renewable resources; exploration, risk and industry structure, and current resources, rent and taxation. Current public policies applied to the resource industries, particularly those of a regulatory nature.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Cairns, Robert D (Winter)
Social Change and Human Impacts
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GEOG 406 Human Dimensions of Climate Change (3 credits)
Overview
Geography : This course will examine the human dimensions of climate change focusing on the vulnerability of human systems, climate change adaptation and mitigation, key policy debates, and current and future challenges. Case studies will be utilized to provide context and help investigate and understand key concepts, trends, and challenges.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Ford, James (Winter)
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GEOG 410 Geography of Underdevelopment: Current Problems (3 credits)
Overview
Geography : An examination of the cultural, political, and economic mechanisms and manifestations of contemporary underdevelopment and the response to it from different regional and national peripheral societies within the dominant world economic system.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Pritchard, Matthew (Winter)
Winter
3 hours
Prerequisite: GEOG 216 or permission of instructor
-
GEOG 498 Humans in Tropical Environments (3 credits)
Overview
Geography : Focus on understanding of inter-relations between humans and neotropical environments represented in Panama. Study of contemporary rural landscapes, their origins, development and change. Impacts of economic growth and inequality, social organization, and politics on natural resource use and environmental degradation. Site visits and field exercises in peasant/colonist, Amerindian, and plantation communities.
Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2014-2015 academic year.
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GEOG 510 Humid Tropical Environments (3 credits)
Overview
Geography : Focus on the environmental and human spatial relationships in tropical rain forest and savanna landscapes. Human adaptation to variations within these landscapes through time and space. Biophysical constraints upon "development" in the modern era.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Coomes, Oliver T (Winter)
Fall
3 hours
Prerequisite: GEOG 203 or equivalent and written permission of the instructor
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HIST 510 Environmental History of Latin America (Field) (3 credits)
Overview
History : Human-nature interactions over different scales of time in Latin America (with an emphasis on neo-tropical environments) and the application of the historical perspective to contemporary environmental issues, including historiography and methodology; cultures of environmental knowledge.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Studnicki-Gizbert, Daviken (Winter)
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SOCI 254 Development and Underdevelopment (3 credits)
Overview
Sociology (Arts) : Competing theories about the causes of underdevelopment in the poor countries. Topics include the impact of geography, the population explosion, culture and national character, economic and sexual inequalities, democracy and dictatorship. Western imperialism and multi-national corporations, reliance on the market, and development through local participation, cooperation, and appropriate technology.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Locher, Uli (Fall)
Summer
Environment Management
* Note: Students may take only one of BREE 430, ENVB 430, or GEOG 201.
** Note: If WILD 415 is taken, 1 additional credit of complementary courses must be taken.
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AEBI 423 Sustainable Land Use (3 credits)
Overview
Biology (Agric & Envir Sc) : Management, preservation, and utilization of forage crops in sustainable tropical environments; examination of their value as livestock feed in terms of nutritional composition and impact on animal performance; land use issues as it pertains to forage and animal production in insular environments.
Terms: Summer 2015
Instructors: Mustafa, Arif; Seguin, Philippe (Summer)
Restriction: Restricted to students that are participating in the Barbados Interdisciplinary Tropical Studies Field Semester
**Due to the intensive nature of this course, the standard add/drop and withdrawal deadlines do not apply. Add/drop is the second lecture day and withdrawal is the fourth lecture day.
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BREE 430 GIS for Natural Resource Management (3 credits) *
Overview
Bioresource Engineering : Applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis techniques to the presentation and analysis of ecological information, including sources and capture of spatial data; characterizing, transforming, displaying spatial data; and spatial analysis to solve resource management problems.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Adamchuk, Viacheslav; Cardille, Jeffrey (Fall)
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ENVB 430 GIS for Natural Resource Management (3 credits) *
Overview
Environmental Biology : Applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial analysis techniques to the presentation and analysis of ecological information, including sources and capture of spatial data; characterizing, transforming, displaying spatial data; and spatial analysis to solve resource management problems.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Cardille, Jeffrey; Adamchuk, Viacheslav (Fall)
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ENVB 437 Assessing Environmental Impact (3 credits)
Overview
Environmental Biology : Theories and procedures of assessing environmental impact. An examination of the environmental impact of existing programs and projects to examine their accuracy in predicting consequences and attenuating undesirable effects.
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Hickey, Gordon (Winter)
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GEOG 201 Introductory Geo-Information Science (3 credits) *
Overview
Geography : An introduction to Geographic Information Systems. The systematic management of spatial data. The use and construction of maps. The use of microcomputers and software for mapping and statistical work. Air photo and topographic map analyses.
Terms: Fall 2014
Instructors: Sengupta, Raja; Lehner, Bernhard (Fall)
Fall
3 hours and lab
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GEOG 302 Environmental Management 1 (3 credits)
Overview
Geography : An ecological analysis of the physical and biotic components of natural resource systems. Emphasis on scientific, technological and institutional aspects of environmental management. Study of the use of biological resources and of the impact of individual processes.
Terms: Fall 2014, Summer 2015
Instructors: Dressel, Holly (Fall) Meredith, Thomas C (Summer)
3 hours
Prerequisite: Any 200-level course in Geography or MSE or BIOL 208 or permission of instructor.
**Due to the intensive nature of this course, the standard add/drop and withdrawal deadlines do not apply. Add/drop is the second lecture day and withdrawal is the fourth lecture day.
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GEOG 404 Environmental Management 2 (3 credits)
Overview
Geography : Practical application of environmental planning, analysis and management techniques with reference to the needs and problems of developing areas. Special challenges posed by cultural differences and traditional resource systems are discussed. This course involves practical field work in a developing area (Kenya or Panama).
Terms: Winter 2015
Instructors: Meredith, Thomas C (Winter)
Winter
3 hours
Prerequisite: GEOG 302 or permission of instructor
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GEOG 530 Global Land and Water Resources (3 credits)
Overview
Geography : Linkage of physical processes (hydrology and ecosystems) with issues of societal and socio-economic relevance (land, food, and water use appropriation for human well-being). Application of a holistic perspective on land, food and water issues in an international setting, highlighting linkages, feedbacks and trade-offs in an Earth system context.
Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2014-2015 academic year.
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MGPO 440 Strategies for Sustainability (3 credits)
Overview
Management Policy : This course explores the relationship between economic activity, management, and the natural environment. Using readings, discussions and cases, the course will explore the challenges that the goal of sustainable development poses for our existing notions of economic goals, production and consumption practices and the management of organizations.
Terms: Fall 2014, Winter 2015
Instructors: Graham, Margaret (Fall) Renaut, Jean-Philippe (Winter)
Restriction: Open to U2, U3 students only
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WILD 415 Conservation Law (2 credits) **
Overview
Resource Development : A study of the various federal, provincial and municipal laws affecting wildlife habitat. Topics include: laws to protect wild birds and animals; the regulation of hunting; legal protection of trees and flowers, sanctuaries, reserves, parks; techniques of acquiring and financing desirable land, property owner rights.
Terms: This course is not scheduled for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Instructors: There are no professors associated with this course for the 2014-2015 academic year.
Fall
2 lectures
McGill School of Environment—2014-2015 (last updated Feb. 18, 2014) (disclaimer)
