Finger Lakes Community College
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Conservation Courses
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CON 100 Introduction to Environmental Conservation (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course focuses on environmental conservation and outdoor recreation controversial issues and current topics. Throughout the semester improvement of critical thinking, writing and oral communication skills are emphasized. F . View Course Syllabus
CON 101 Principles of Soils, Waters, Forests (3-0) 3 hrs.
To provide students with an introduction to principles of soil science, meteorology, hydrology, forestry and forest ecology. The student should gain knowledge and field experience in the conservation and management of these interrelated natural resources, especially as they apply to outdoor recreation, wildlife, fisheries, and land use planning. B . View Course Syllabus
CON 102 Introduction to Fish and Wildlife (3-0) 3 hrs.
The study of fish and wildlife as a valuable aesthetic, recreational, and economic resource. Ecological consideration, life histories, identification, populations, habits, habitat characteristics and relationship to man of regional wildlife and fish are topics which will be covered. Special attention is paid to fish and mammals of New York State. S . View Course Syllabus
CON 103 Environmental Science (3-2) 4 hrs
Environmental Science is a course that explores the interactions and relationships between humans and the Earth. The course will follow the basic themes of sustainability and critical analysis of environmental issues. Students will gain an understanding and appreciation of the impact of humans on the environment while studying ecosystems, the human population, renewable resources, energy, pollution and its prevention, and ways to work toward a sustainable future. In the laboratory component of the course students will learn scientific methodology, sampling procedures and methods used to test environmental quality. A portion of the lab will include outdoor experiences. This course is also listed as BIO 103. . View Course Syllabus
CON 110 Sustainable Earth: Spiritual and Scientific Consilience (3-0) 3 hrs.
Students will examine the impact of human populations on earth ecosystems. Students will explore psychological, cultural, spiritual, economic, and political factors that accelerate the deterioration of earth's ecosystem and alternate perspectives of those factors which might lead to a more life-sustaining society. Emphasis will be placed on discovering common ground between science and spiritualism. Students will serve as discussion leaders for course topics of their choice. A community involvement component will be required. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. S (Also listed as PHL 110) . View Course Syllabus
CON 116 Fisheries Techniques (3-0) 3 hrs.
This hands-on course provides students with field experiences utilizing various types of fisheries equipment. Emphasis is placed on sampling techniques for both fish and aquatic habitats. Topics include small boat operation, fish identification, fish capture and handling techniques, data collection, tagging and marking, aging, electrofishing, netting, radio telemetry, hydro acoustics, habitat assessment, and equipment maintenance. F . View Course Syllabus
CON 118 Introduction to Natural Resource Law (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course introduces students to laws for the protection and conservation of fish, wildlife and natural resources. The focus of the course is New York State and Federal law regulating the conservation of fish, wildlife and forest resources. Particular areas of study include the New York State Fish and Wildlife Law and Federal Fish and Wildlife Laws (eg: Lacey Act, Endangered Species Act, Migratory Bird Act). Students will study the evolution of the current body of New York State and Federal law relating to management of fish, wildlife and forest resources from a historical prospective. Students will also study legislative and administrative processes employed in the formation of Fish and Wildlife Laws and the functions and duties of the New York State and federal agencies charged with enforcing these laws. Instruction methods include lecture, class discussion and guest speakers. F (Also listed as CJC 118.) . View Course Syllabus
CON 130 Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (2-2) 3 hrs.
This is an introductory level geospatial technology course designed to introduce students to the concepts and theories of geographic information systems (GIS) and the practice of geospatial analysis. This course consists of a lecture component and a laboratory component. Students will learn to apply GIS concepts through hands-on exercises designed to explore and analyze spatial data. Students will use leading geospatial software used by numerous professions including natural resources conservation and sustainability, business management, criminal justice, and community planning. F (Also listed as GIS 130.) . View Course Syllabus
CON 190 Conservation Field Camp (3-0) 3 hrs.
Field Camp is designed to provide one week of conservation field experiences. Emphasis will be on fish, wildlife, and forest management techniques; conservation field studies and investigations; field natural history; outdoor recreation skills; and ecology. SU . View Course Syllabus
CON 200 Field Experiences in Conservation I (2-0) 2 hrs.
This course is comprised of classroom sessions and at least 45 hours of individual field experiences. Topics in the classroom include: resume writing, interview strategies, job searching, Civil Service examination preparation and identification of field experiences appropriate to the student’s career goals. Field experiences will be arranged with appropriate agencies, which may include the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, County Conservation Services, BSA Camps, National Park Service, Nature Conservancy, water treatment plants and nature centers. Field experiences will provide students the opportunity to assume the responsibilities for the jobs (Fish and Wildlife Technician, Nature Interpreter, Camp Ranger, etc.), they will be performing after graduation. The type of experience varies with student career interest and previous experience. (Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory grade.) Prerequisite: Permission of department. . View Course Syllabus
CON 201 Field Experiences in Conservation II (2-0) 2 hrs.
This course is comprised of limited classroom sessions and 75 hours of individual field experiences. Topics in the classroom are intended to build from the material learned in CON 200 and include: resume writing, job searching and identification of field experiences appropriate to the student’s career goals. Field experiences will be arranged with appropriate agencies, which may include the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, County Conservation Services, BSA Camps, National Park Service, Nature Conservancy, water treatment plants and nature centers. Field experiences will provide students the opportunity to assume the responsibilities for the jobs (Fish and Wildlife Technician, Nature Interpreter, Camp Ranger, etc.), they will be performing after graduation. The type of experience varies with student career interest and previous experience. (Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory grade.) Prerequisite: CON 200 or permission of the Department. . View Course Syllabus
CON 202 Principles of Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology (3-0) 3 hrs.
A study of climatic, edaphic and biotic factors as they relate to species distribution and population dynamics in selected biomes of New York State and the world. Students develop deeper understanding of the ecological principles concerning the interaction between organisms and their environment. Prerequisites: BIO 121, BIO 122, ENG 101 or permission of instructor. F (Also listed as BIO 221) . View Course Syllabus
CON 203 Seminar in Environmental Conservation (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course presents topics in the field of environmental conservation. Current topics include: Herpetology, Entomology, Winter Botany, Alternative Energy, Forest Fire Control, Environmental Conservation Research, and Public Lands. A comprehensive field identification test is required. S
CON 205 Field Botany (3-0) 3 hrs.
Field identification, taxonomy, habitat preference, growth characteristics and management of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants are the major topics covered in this course. Emphasis is placed on local flora and its utilization by man and wildlife. Important ornamental trees, New York State rare plants and exotic plants that are management problems, and the ecology of the eastern deciduous forest biome are highlighted. Considerable class time will be spent outdoors on campus and at nearby areas. Prerequisite or concurrently: BIO 121. B (Also listed as BIO 250)
CON 210 Field Natural History (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course is a series of extended field trips into a selection of local ecosystems such as gorges, bogs, streams and marshes. Students will analyze these ecosystems both as examples of each ecological situation, and as areas managed in different ways by man. Natural history topics such as insects, aquatic life, migratory birds, glacial geology, and human interactions with the environment are studied in appropriate areas. Prerequisites: BIO 121, BIO 122 or permission of instructor. F (Also listed as BIO 245)
CON 211 Ornithology (3-2) 4 hrs.
The study of birds with special emphasis on anatomy, life histories and identification of birds common to Western New York. Lecture and laboratory work will be supplemented by several field trips, including early morning bird observations. Trips to selected local birding areas are required. Prerequisites: BIO 121, BIO 122 or permission of instructor. B (Also listed as BIO 225) . View Course Syllabus
CON 214 Fisheries Management (3-0) 3 hrs.
Fisheries Management stresses the relationship between humans, fish and their environments. Students are introduced to the principles of fishery management including, history, theory, and management strategies. The importance of habitat management, and population dynamics and their interactions is explored. Management strategies will be introduced through case studies of selected fisheries. S . View Course Syllabus
CON 215 Unique Ecological Communities (3-0) 3 hrs.
The purpose of this course shall be to provide students with field and travel experiences relative to their course work in Natural Resources Conservation. This expedition course to different areas of the country will emphasize identification and natural history of birds, mammals, reptiles, plants, and a variety of ecological communities. Students will be provided with opportunities to observe employment opportunities in conservation and gain experience in camping and group travel. Examples of travel experiences include trips to: Florida Everglades, Wilderness Alaska, Maritime Provinces, and various National Parks. JP/SU
CON 216 Wildlife Management (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course will provide intensive classroom and some field experience in wildlife management theory including: population dynamics, mortality, natality and the relationship between wildlife and their habitats. Practical techniques used for aging, sexing, marking, trapping and transferring game and non-game wildlife will be presented. Rearing and releasing endangered and game species, habitat evaluation, nuisance control and wildlife population estimation techniques are discussed. F . View Course Syllabus
CON 217 Environmental Planning and Impact Analysis (3-0) 3 hrs.
This is an introductory course in the multi-disciplinary field of environmental planning. Techniques used to identify, inventory, and evaluate natural resources are examined. Local case studies, regulatory laws, and the environmental decision-making process are reviewed. Topics are developed further through assigned readings and classroom discussions. Students put concepts into use with realistic projects involving local environmental land use issues. F (Also listed as ENV 217)
CON 218 Fish Culture Techniques (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course is designed to provide second year students enrolled in the AAS Fisheries Technology degree, in depth exposure to fish culture practices and techniques. Students will review historic and current status of fish culture in the United States and world. Culture methods, data collection, egg take, incubation, and fry hatching of walleye (Sander vitreus) cultured at the FLCC-Muller Conservation Field Station-Fish Culture and Aquatic Research Center is emphasized. Trips to other culture facilities add to the student experience. Essential factors involving water quality, fish health, nutrition, species requirements, system design, equipment, and advanced re-circulation aquaculture systems are studied. This is a hands-on course. Prerequisite: CON 219 or permission of instructor. S . View Course Syllabus
CON 219 Introduction to Aquaculture (3-0) 3 hrs
This course is designed for students enrolled in the A.A.S. Fisheries Science degree program as an introduction to aquaculture practices and techniques. Students are exposed to both the historic and current status of aquaculture. Emphasis is placed on culture methods, fish handling, and data collection techniques. Walleye cultured at the FLCC-Muller Field Station, Fish Culture and Aquatic Research Center will be collected and stocked. Trips to other culture facilities will expose students to different culturing techniques. Factors of water quality, fish health and nutrition, system designs, and advances in Recirculation Aquaculture Systems (RAS) will be investigated. F . View Course Syllabus
CON 220 Glacial Geology of the Finger Lakes (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course is an introduction to glaciation emphasizing historic events within the Finger Lakes region. The mechanics of glacial motion, erosion, and deposition will be studied and then used to interpret our modern landscape. Students will be introduced to the technique of air photo interpretation. Our modern biodiversity and distributional patterns of organisms will be related to postglacial events. Scenic values associated with glacial landscapes will be a focal point of the class field trips. S (Also listed as SCI 220)
CON 221 Conservation/Horticulture Topics I (1-0) 1hr.
This course is designed to provide students with specialization in an area related to their occupational or educational interest, and to provide students the opportunity to become more familiar with conservation and horticulture practices. Topics typically involve a field component and may be held as a residential course at the Muller Conservation Field Station. B (Also dual-listed with HRT 221)
CON 222 Conservation/Horticulture Topics II (2-0) 2 hrs.
This course is designed to provide students with specialization in an area related to their occupational or educational interest, and to provide students the opportunity to become more familiar with conservation and horticulture practices. Topics typically involve a field component and may be held as a residential course at the Muller Conservation Field Station. B (Also dual-listed with HRT 222)
CON 223 Conservation/Horticulture Topics III (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course is designed to provide students with specialization in an area related to their occupational or educational interest, and to provide students the opportunity to become more familiar with conservation and horticulture practices. Topics typically involve a field component and may be held as a residential course at the Muller Conservation Field Station. B (Also dual-listed with HRT 223)
CON 225 Introduction to Wildlife Diseases (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course is intended to provide students with a basic understanding of wildlife diseases and environmental contaminants which adversely affect the health of wildlife populations. Infectious and noninfectious wildlife diseases as well as parasitology will be explored through discussion, assignments, guest speakers, and the completion of a technical research paper. Students will then be able to apply knowledge of these topics to other aspects of environmental conservation including environmental chemistry, ecology, wildlife rehabilitation, and environmental law. Prerequisites: BIO 121, BIO 122, CON 102 or permission of instructor. S . View Course Syllabus
CON 226 Fisheries Field Assessment (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course is an intensive one-week session that gives the student in-depth experience in fish inventory methods, data interpretations, operation of water analysis equipment, navigation, and general vessel operation and maintenance. The majority of class time will be in the field, allowing the student to gain hands-on training in fisheries management techniques. The class is divided into five daily modules. The order in which the modules are taught are weather dependent; therefore, the starting and ending times will vary. Students should plan on being available from 6 a.m. to midnight each day. (Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory grade.) Prerequisite: permission of instructor. SU
CON 228 Small Woodlot Management (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course will provide a practical guide to the optimum utilization of several acres of privately owned woodlands. Topics covered will include woodland values, tree identification, forest ecology, measurement and evaluation of forest products, forest management alternative and wood space heating. Field instruction will emphasize chainsaw use, preparation of fuel wood including felling, bucking, transportation, splitting, and seasoning. F (Also listed as GST 183) . View Course Syllabus
CON 229 Stream Ecology and Monitoring (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course provides students with an introduction to hydrology, stream ecology and sampling design. Students will intensively study aquatic macro-invertebrate identification. Students will learn through field and laboratory experiences with data collected, analysis, and production of a final professional report. Prerequisite: MAT 121, CSC 134, CSC 135 or Permission of Instructor. S . View Course Syllabus
CON 233 Laws for the Use and Protection of Water and Land Resources (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course focuses on Local, New York State and Federal Laws for the protection of water resources and land use. Students will study New York State Environmental Conservation Law as it relates to the management of water resources, protection of freshwater and tidal wetlands, and regulation of mining and energy exploration. Students will study the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) process and the Federal Clean Water Act, landowner rights and liabilities. Legal processes for the introduction of new laws and the enforcement of current laws will be discussed in depth. Students will be introduced to potential careers through the study of local, state and federal regulatory agencies charged with protection and wise use of water and land resources. Instruction methods include lecture, class discussion and guest speakers. F . View Course Syllabus
CON 234 Laws for the Management of Air Resources, Solid Waste and Hazardous Substances (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course will focus on New York State and Federal laws for the protection of air resources, the management of solid waste and regulation of substances harmful to the environment. Students will study the New York State Environmental Conservation Law as it relates to protection of air resources, the management, transportation and disposal of solid and hazardous waste and the use substances potentially hazardous to the environment such as pesticides. Students will also study related federal statutes including the Clean Air Act, NEPA and CLERCA. Students will be introduced to potential careers through the study of local, state and federal regulatory agencies charged with protection of air resources, the management, transportation and disposal of solid and hazardous waste and the use of substances potentially harmful to the environment. Instruction methods include lecture, class discussion and guest speakers. S . View Course Syllabus
CON 240 Wildlife Crime Scene Investigation & Forensics (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course introduces the student to the study of criminal investigative techniques and the analysis of evidence with an emphasis on crimes against wildlife and the environment. The focus throughout the course will be the collection, protection and preservation of evidence as it relates to the investigative process. Analysis of actual closed criminal cases and simulations with mock crime scenes will allow students to put into practice classroom discussions and readings. S . View Course Syllabus
CON 246 (BIO 246) Limnology (3-2) 3 hrs.
An introduction to the scientific study of inland waters, limnology concerns itself with all the factors that affect living populations within those waters. Through lecture and field experiences, the student will become familiar with physical and chemical processes in water, especially those that have a direct effect on biological organisms. Standard methods and highly technical instrumentation will be used on board the college’s educational vessel. A survey of life forms and identification skills will be emphasized as well as aquatic community structure and interactions. F
CON 255 Wildland Fire Suppression (S-130/S-190) (2-0) 2 hrs.
This course provides the training necessary for the Federal Interagency “RED” Card for wildland firefighter. Topics covered include: ignition, behavior, and spread of wildfires; the role of topography and fuels in wildfires; prescribed fires as a management tool; use of fire suppression equipment; methods of fire prevention and suppression; State and Federal wildland fire control agencies. Graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis. B (Also listed as WFS 130)
CON 256 Fire Ecology (3-0) 3 hrs.
This course is designed to give students an appreciation and understanding of the ecological role of fire in a variety of North American ecosystems. Advantageous adaptations of species inhabiting fire prone ecosystems will be discussed. The effects of fire on plants and animals will be discussed within the context of ecological time scales. The effect of past state and federal policies concerning wild fire will be examined using various case studies. Students will also be introduced to the use of prescribed burning as a habitat restoration technique. SP (Also listed as WFS 256) . View Course Syllabus
CON 260 Principles & Techniques of Nature Interpretation (3-0) 3 hrs
An in-depth investigation of the fundamental principles and concepts of nature interpretation will be developed. Historical development, current trends, methods and field techniques in nature study, outdoor education, interpretive programming, and facilities will be examined. Prerequisite:CON 210 or permission of instructor. S . View Course Syllabus
CON 265 Field Techniques for Naturalists and Photographers (3-0) 3 hrs.
An introductory course emphasizing basic field techniques that are used in outdoor photography. Special emphasis will be placed on field techniques for photographing wildlife, plants, landscapes, outdoor recreation and environmental activities. The course will also place special emphasis on the use of natural light to produce quality photographs. A lesser emphasis will be placed on photographic equipment, film types and methods of utilizing photographs. Prerequisite:ART 207 Photography I or permission of instructor. B
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