Ecology and Environmental Management

This Ecology and Environmental Management major has a strong research and application focus and will produce graduates that are 'work ready' by combining an extensive laboratory and field-based program with training centred on state-of-the-art techniques and information along with final year research projects embedded in the capstone units. The course combines studies in ecology, zoology, ecology, geography, genetics and applied ecological management to develop a broad range of knowledge and investigative skills that are applicable to a wide range of research fields, industries and employers. The laboratory and field programs, includes hands-on training on modern analytical equipment including applications, theory of operation, optimisation and data analysis. The major includes two Capstone units: RBF3210 Environmental Rehabilitation builds on previously taken units and introduces a range of tools that will assist in the rehabilitation of Victoria's terrestrial environments and communities. Topics include the ecological parameters and adaptations of organisms in diverse environments and the key ecological relationships amongst organisms. Rehabilitation projects based on approaches using ecological theory will be reviewed using contemporary case studies. Practicals will include hands-on experience in the use of the Native Vegetation Management Framework, the Habitat Hectare approach, development of land management plans, and specific threatened species rehabilitation programs. RBF3620 Conservation and Sustainability ties together, in both theoretical and practical ways, concepts and practices for maintaining biological diversity, and how these concepts and practices can be integrated with social and economic needs. More specifically, this unit brings together concepts such as the development of conservation theory and practice in Australia; extinction and its significance, including pathways to extinction; the meanings, levels and interpretation of concepts of biodiversity; ecological and adaptive management approaches to conservation and recovery, including design of reserves, setting priorities, off-reserve conservation and ex-situ (captive breeding, reintroduction and translocation). Practical field studies and site visits will investigate the contributions of zoo's, national and state parks, friends groups, councils and shires, other government agencies and private landholders to the conservation and recovery of plant and animal species, from insects to mammals, and from mushrooms to trees. The subject will also include practical appraisals of techniques used to determine integrity of ecosystems, landscapes and overall environment, the contributions made by biodiversity to ecosystem services and integrated methods for recovery and sustainable management of species and ecosystems.