207-203 Techniques of Resource Assessment

202-106 Land Resources.

On completion of this subject, students should have;

• knowledge of the major methods utilised in the evaluation of land and biological resources and the implementation of these techniques in field situations so as to derive the necessary information required; and

• an ability to interpret the results emanating from the use of such techniques, and an understanding of how to apply them in a natural resource management context.

Content includes:

• basic land survey instruments and their use;

• map reading and interpretation and the use of remotely sensed data;

• an introduction into the use of Global Positioning Systems and other forms of electronic data gathering, and the use of such information in Geographic Information Systems;

• field sampling in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Methods of analysis of biological materials, and interpretation of data; and

• survey methodologies for biological assessment.

A three-hour examination (50%), and two 3000-word assignments (each 25%).