Geog 413 Disturbance Biogeography of Pacific Northwest

Disturbances are important natural components of all ecosystems, including those in the Pacific Northwest. Disturbances also present risks to human society, yet these are difficult to assess, prevent and predict. This course will serve as an introduction to disturbance ecology in terrestrial ecosystems in the PNW (i.e. from theory to human modifications of nature), including volcanoes, insect outbreaks, wildfires, landslides, earthquakes, and floods among others. The course includes at least one mandatory day field trip.