Natural Resource
Science
Haida Gwaii Semester in Natural Resource Science
September to December, 2022 HlG̱aagilda Skidegate
This program is well suited for undergraduate students who have completed the first two years of a natural science-based degree. It integrates classroom and field instruction with local guest speakers and numerous field activities. Much of the content builds on foundational ecological theories and observational science. Some social theories and concepts, particularly around linked social-ecological systems, are introduced later in the term.


HGSE 355 - Applied Ecology of Coastal Terrestrial Ecosystems
This course is an in-depth examination of the processes that shape coastal terrestrial ecosystems through time and applications of that information to current ecological reality. It covers topics from the historical geology of the islands to the structure, function, and diversity of forests and landscapes today.

HGSE 356 - Biophysical Dynamics of the Marine-Terrestrial Interface
Land and sea dynamics have profound influences on one another in Haida Gwaii, and students taking this course have a unique opportunity to explore such marine-terrestrial connections. Students learn about nutrient cycling between the marine environment and coastal forest ecosystems, how the physical characteristics of this interface can affect these inputs, and which species play a pivotal role in driving interactions.

HGSE 357 - Ecology & Management of Island Wildlife
This course focuses on unique biological attributes of island wildlife, such as subspecies, isolated populations, and distinct evolutionary pathways. Topics for this course include an overview of endemic species on Haida Gwaii and their evolutionary history in the context of island biogeography theory, as well as an examination of the parameters that drive population-level outcomes for native and introduced species.

HGSE 358 - Systems Thinking for Resource Management
Through interactions with different agencies on Haida Gwaii, this course provides students opportunities to learn about and apply conceptual tools in the context of real case studies that foster social change and build adaptive capacity. Students are introduced to systems-thinking and resilience tools that enhance their understanding of the dynamics of social change and social innovation.

HGSE 359 - Ecosystem Based Management Seminar
In this course, the capstone of the Haida Gwaii Semester in Natural Resource Science, students integrate concepts and themes from the four modular courses of the semester. This is done in the context of community and through the lenses of culture, ecology, economy/industry, government, places, and people. Students engage in an in-depth exploration of the communities of Haida Gwaii through community-based experiences and community service learning. Workshops are offered to develop students’ skills in working in resource dependent, cross-cultural communities: planning and community-based research, giving effective presentations, group work, and technical writing.