Ecosystem Management Technology
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Lindsay
Accepting applications
EMX
Ontario College Advanced Diploma
September 2, 2008
$1,540.50 per semester *
* Tuition and fees subject to change.
- Program Information
- Program Curriculum
- Course Descriptions
Are you looking for a challenge? Do you want to be a leader? Are you passionate about the Environment? Do you want to be apart of the solution as opposed to the problem? Then this program is for you. The third year of the Ecosystem Management Program builds on your expertise developed from the two year Technician Program or complements your university training. You'll gain applied experience while working with community and resource agencies that are dedicated to long term ecosystem health and sustainability.
Program Highlights
Fleming's Ecosystem Management Technology program begins with a four-day field camp in a remote wilderness setting. This experience offers both personal challenge and the opportunity to build effective working relationships with your classmates - essential preparation for the year ahead.
If you select Ecosystem Management Technology, you'll participate in the unique placement program - Credit for Product - in which you will spend one day a week working with a team on a specific project for an external agency.
If you are interested in continuing your education following this year of study the articulation agreements in place with a number of universities are first rate. On the other hand if you are a university student looking for a program that compliments your degree and provides you with a more applied approach to learning then this program is for you.
Why Choose Fleming?
The Ecosystem Management Technologist program is the only one of its kind at an Ontario community college and, as a discipline, Ecosystem Management is on the leading edge of resource conservation in the 21st century - the future is now. The School of Environmental and Natural Resources Sciences at the Frost Campus encourages small class sizes and access to state-of-the-art technology. Dedicated, award-winning faculty provide a challenging and dynamic learning environment in the heart of the Kawartha Lakes region. Another great asset of Fleming's Ecosystem Management Technology program is our transfer agreements with Trent University and York University that enable graduates to obtain their degree in just two years. Program graduates are eligible to apply for a Bachelor of Environmental Science degree at Trent or York and complete it with an additional two years of study at these partner institutions (this would normally take seven years to complete instead of five).
Common First Semester
Students in our School’s diploma programs take the same courses for first semester after choosing and being accepted into one of our programs. This common focus exposes you to a variety of career options and other programs. You will have the freedom to explore and obtain a multidisciplinary perspective, while you acquire a base of knowledge and fundamental skills.
Although students are accepted into a specific program for their first semester, the common first semester allows you to change direction if you find another program or career area is more appealing. Once you have successfully completed the common first semester, you can enter the program of your choice in second semester, subject to enrolment capacity.
Work Experience
In the fall and winter semesters, you will work in a small team for an external agency one day per week during the Credit for Product student placement program. It's a great opportunity to expand your network of employment contacts and gain valuable on-the-job experience. Our partners in this placement program include agencies like the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, conservation authorities, provincial stewardship councils, the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, local schools, community groups, and many more.
What it Takes to Succeed
- the ability to ask questions, and find questions within questions as you solve problems and create sustainable plans
- an interest in understanding how ecosystems and humanity interact
- good problem-solving skills
- analytical, critical and creative thinking
- excellent oral and written communication skills
- the ability to work as part of a team
- good organizational ability
- project management skills
- cultural awareness/sensitivity.
- strong information management and technology skills
- strong field and research skills
- work or volunteer experience in such areas as conservation, greenspace projects, parks, public education about the environment, or habitat restoration is an asset.
Career Opportunities
Taking your education up a notch from Ecosystem Management Technician, to an Ecosystem Management Technologist, you'll qualify for higher-level positions upon graduation in similar settings and job positions, as well as being qualified to work in:
- restoration/conservation of ecosystems
- habitat assessment
- Geographic Information Systems
- ecological research
- rural and urban planning
- environmental protection, and others
Minimum Admission Requirements
OSSD with the majority of credits at the College (C) and Open (O) level, including:
- 2 College (C) English courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
- 2 College (C) Math courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
When (C) is the minimum course level for admission, (U) or (U/C) courses are also accepted.
*Students starting in January are required to attend classes over the summer semester.
Mature Students
If you are 19 years of age or older before classes start, and you do not possess an OSSD, you can write the Canadian Adult Achievement Test to assess your eligibility for admission.
Advanced Standing
College or university graduate may be eligible for advanced standing entry to semester five of this program if they possess:
- A college diploma in environmental or natural sciences or the equivalent.
- Or, a Bachelor of Science with emphasis in Biology, Bachelor of Environmental Science/Studies or a degree with a joint major in Science/Geography.
All other degrees are assessed for eligibility based on the number of science-based courses acquired. Applicants who do not possess the academic requirements as stated may be considered on an individual basis.
If you require more information about your eligibility for admission to this program, please contact program co-ordinator Mike Fraser at mfraser@flemingc.on.ca; tel 866-353-6464 ext. 3230
Selection Process
Additional Costs
In addition, plan to spend about $475 for books, supplies and field camps.
University Transfer Agreements
Semester 1
Environmental Leadership
Course Number: NATR008
This course will enable students to develop a personal position and direct their career path within the context of the environmental and natural resource industry. A dynamic, interactive case study approach will be used to examine issues arising from environmental disputes and conflicts, and to develop an understanding of ecological sustainability.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Applied Mathematics in Natural Resource Sciences
Course Number: MATH063
This course will enable students to apply specific mathematical concepts and acquire foundation skills important in the Natural Resource and Environmental Sciences. It is designed to complement and reinforce learning within other first semester courses and program areas.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Communicating Technical Information
Course Number: COMM044
This course focuses on the development of fundamental writing and speaking skills, both individually and in teams, within the context of program and work needs in the environmental field. Also, students will be required to apply and to demonstrate fundamental research skills, including an analysis of library and Web resources pertaining to program-related topics. Assessment strategies will be tied closely to other common first semester courses.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Ecology and Environment
Course Number: ENVR020
Learn how nature works by studying the key components of the ecosystems in the Kawartha Lakes Region. Through field and lab exploration of wild life, landforms, forests, lakes, rivers and wetlands, students will see the connections between themselves, the environment and ecosystems that surround them.
Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00
Ecosystem Skills
Course Number: ECOS013
This course will focus on three areas of study: identification, field and lab skills. Students will identify and classify the living and non-living components of the specific ecosystems described in the Ecology and Environment (ENVR 20) course. Field skills to be developed include the ability to navigate through the natural environment and use a variety of ecosystem inventory techniques. Special emphasis will be placed on safe work habits in lab and field.
Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00
Environmental Leadership
Course Number: NATR008
This course will enable students to develop a personal position and direct their career path within the context of the environmental and natural resource industry. A dynamic, interactive case study approach will be used to examine issues arising from environmental disputes and conflicts, and to develop an understanding of ecological sustainability.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Geospatial Techniques
Course Number: GEOM036
This course is designed around the four pillars of Geomatics: Remote Sensing, Cartography, Surveying and GIS. Students will develop entry-level skills in data capture, surveying, (computer) drafting, principles of remote sensing, air photo interpretation, and in usage of representative Geomatics-related software.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Communications Plus
Course Number: COMM012
Communications Plus will provide individualized help in language and writing skills for students enrolled in Common First Semester Communicating Technical Information. This is a one-hour timetabled class in addition to the Communicating Technical Information course. Students who are recommended and/or elect to take Communications Plus will work on computer-based modules, and may receive assistance on seminar and lab writing assignments from all courses. No additional work is required other than the one class hour per week.
Units: 15.00
Hours: 15.00
Semester 2
Ecology: Concepts and Linkages
Course Number: ECOS014
Ecology: Concepts and Linkages introduces contemporary theory, ideology and practices of ecosystem management. Students use qualitative and quantitative methodology, historical context, and selected experiences to assemble ecological data and information into knowledge that functions to benefit ecosystems. The course integrates ecology, environmental and ecosystem health sciences to assist in the understanding and sequential application of ecosystem management practices.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Forest Measurement
Course Number: FSTY073
This course deals with specific measurements and assessment methods for forests. The course involves laboratory sessions and field trips. Measurement of tree height, tree diameter, basal area, land area, and tree volume is studied. The Canadian Fire Weather Index system is introduced. Fixed area sampling, point sampling, tree marking, and fuel loading are field trip topics.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Introductory Computing
Course Number: COMP345
Working in the Windows XP environment, this computer course introduces the student to computer basics (computer terminology, e-mail, Internet, file management) and the application and use of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software. Through the extensive use of hands-on activities, students will gain sufficient knowledge and experience to make productive use of computers as a tool in both college and workplace environments.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Soil Studies
Course Number: NATR041
This course provides an introduction to the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils. Students develop skills in the determination of soil textures, soil moisture, soil porosity, and other aspects using a variety of field and laboratory methods.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Technical Reporting
Course Number: COMM034
This course is an introduction to technical writing and speaking for students in the School of Environmental & Natural Resource Sciences. Students will write a formal technical report by applying research skills in the library and on the Internet, writing an outline and an introduction, documenting their sources of information in the APA style, editing and revising drafts of their reports, writing formal elements of the report, and integrating graphic presentations with text. In addition, they will present their reports orally, using appropriate audiovisual media, write a set of instructions in memo format, and be able to identify several common types of reports.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Trees and Shrubs Of Ontario
Course Number: FSTY050
This course deals with the identification of approximately 100 species of trees and shrubs of importance to those managing the forests resources of Ontario. Throughout the semester identification features for common trees and shrubs in both summer and winter condition are introduced and applied. A number of field trips are utilized to assist students with their identification skills. In the weekly lecture series topics such as tree growth, reproduction, photosynthesis, respiration, forest ecology and uses of trees will be introduced. At the completion of the course students will have a sound working knowledge of dendrology. The skills introduced in this semester may then be used in following semesters when working with Forest Ecosystem Classification, Restoration Ecology, Conservation Planning and other habitat management situations.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Wildlife Observation Skills
Course Number: FIWI041
This course is an introduction to a range of skills in wildlife observation. A variety of wildlife species may be present in an environment despite not being seen. Important skills include visual and auditory identification of wildlife signs. The primary emphasis in this course will be on identification of wildlife signs such as tracks, trail patterns, scat, skulls, impacts on the environment, bird song and amphibian calls. When ever possible it is important to achieve visual observation and documentation of wildlife. Photography will be examined as a tool to document wildlife and their signs. Studies of wildlife observation technology will include an evaluation of binoculars and spotting scopes. Wildlife observation projects and groups will be reviewed including the Christmas Bird Count and breeding bird surveys. Lab instruction will be augmented with field trips to observe signs of local wildlife and when possible to document actual wildlife sightings.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Semester 3
Aquatic Ecosystems
Course Number: ECOS003
Students taking this course will develop skills, knowledge, and attitude in the management of lake, river, wetland and marine ecosystems. They will apply current theories of ecosystem management to aquatic environments by studying abiotic, biotic, and cultural components at a variety of spatial and temporal scales.
Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00
Introduction to Vector GIS
Course Number: GEOM034
This is an introductory level course in Vector GIS. Students will be exposed to various components of Vector GIS, including co-ordinate systems, map projections, data sources and data structures. Students will also learn how to produce maps in order to effectively communicate geographic information. Data collection techniques will be explored through the use of a GPS receiver.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Natural Resources and the Law
Course Number: LAWS056
This course provides an introduction to laws that have an impact on the use of natural resources in Ontario. The course will deal with an overview of the legal system, the underlying principles of gaining compliance, and specific legislation that may be encountered in the natural resources field.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Restoration Ecology
Course Number: ECOS010
A course to develop skill, knowledge and attitudes in restoration and preservation of ecosystems. Students will develop scientific knowledge of current methodologies and technologies in restoration.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Statistics
Course Number: MATH025
This course covers data organization, the basic statistical parameters, confidence intervals for means, the normal distribution, hypothesis testing (Chi-square, 'F', 't' and Anova), and regression analysis.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Terrestrial Ecosystems
Course Number: ECOS011
Students taking this course will develop skills, knowledge, and attitude in management techniques for terrestrial ecosystems, including forest management planning on crown and private lands. They will apply current theories of ecosystem management to the terrestrial environment through study of abiotic, biotic, and cultural components. Completion of this course, along with Aquatic Ecosystems (ECOS 3), will prepare students for a wide range of employment opportunities in the field of ecosystem management.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Semester 4
Career Advancement Techniques
Course Number: NATR011
This course focuses on public speaking, and the production and use of visual materials. Videotaping will be used to evaluate presentation delivery and stage presence. Students will also develop skills in the chairing and minute taking of a meeting, as well as conducting and participating in an effective interview experience, and the development of a career portfolio.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
EM-Geomatics
Course Number: GEOM016
The course examines elementary principles of data acquisition, data management, and spatial analysis, using the raster data model. Laboratory exercises will allow students to become familiar with the operation of GIS software commonly used in the field. The students will be exposed to various hands-on projects/applications involving the use of GIS software.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Ecosystem Monitoring and Assessment
Course Number: ECOS007
This course provides students with technical skills and knowledge related to monitoring and assessing ecosystem health and change in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. An emphasis will be placed on scientific methodology, report-writing skills, and experimental design principles. Students will also become familiar with the federal and provincial Environmental Assessment acts.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Environmental Issues: The Human Factor
Course Number: GNED015
This course introduces students to the non-technical aspects of environmental issues: historical, cultural, ethical, political, and economic. It is concerned with how environmental issues enter public consciousness and how they are subsequently dealt with in the Canadian and global communities. Students will be encouraged to adopt a balanced, analytical approach as the basis for developing and expressing their own viewpoints as informed citizens and technicians/technologists.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Field Placement EMT
Course Number: FLPL108
This 80-hour (2-week) course will take place following the completion of Semester 4. The student will be engaged in an environmental project with an environmental organization.
Units: 80.00
Hours: 80.00
Human Relations
Course Number: MGMT005
This course examines self-awareness, interpersonal relations, motivation, stress, small group dynamics, and organizational behaviour. Particular attention will be paid to leadership and conflict management in employment situations. Contemporary developments reshaping human relations will be introduced for study and discussion.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Nuisance Species Management Techniques
Course Number: FIWI023
This course examines the life history, behaviour and habits of nuisance plant and animal species. Management techniques will include methodology, materials, equipment, and strategies used for repelling or removing nuisance species. It will also explore laws and hazards of repelling or removing such species and the risks to humans, plants, and animals. The lethal and non-lethal methods of removal will be discussed.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Urban Forest Science
Course Number: FSTY060
This course introduces the students to tree anatomy, tree physiology, urban soil conditions, tree installation and the impact of construction on tree health. Field trips deal with tree selection, tree pruning, tree reaction to wounding and an introduction to hazard tree assessment.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Semester 5
Credit for Product I: Student Placement
Course Number: FLPL004
This is a student placement undertaken with an agency and approved by the course instructor(s). It is designed to provide the student with an opportunity to apply ecosystem management skills and knowledge and to allow for the development of basic project management skills.
Units: 90.00
Hours: 90.00
Field Camp
Course Number: APST021
This field camp is a mandatory diploma requirement of the Ecosystem Management Technology Program. It consists of four consecutive days of field study followed by independent group work to complete assignments.
Units: 40.00
Hours: 40.00
First Nations and Sustainable Development
Course Number: ECOS008
This course focuses on the study of First Nations people in Canada and abroad from cultural, economic, political and natural resource perspectives. Contemporary developments shaping First Nations involvement in ecosystem management and sustainable development initiatives will be introduced.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Habitat Assessment
Course Number: FIWI014
Co-requisites
This course identifies key aquatic and terrestrial habitat types and the integration of fish and wildlife habitat requirements over space and time with other resource values. Extensive field assessment of various habitats will be undertaken.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Resource and Environmental Economics
Course Number: LAWS070
This course explores the various and often controversial ways in which economics can be used to understand individual, business, and public policy treatment of natural resources and the environment. It introduces fundamental economic principles and examine how they might apply to the human relationship with the natural world. It grapples with the basic issue of how we humans value and distribute nature's benefits and burdens across space, time, and the human community.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Satellite Data Processing
Course Number: COMP084
This is an introductory course in Remote Sensing and Satellite data processing. The course highlights the principles of remote sensing, characteristics of the electromagnetic spectrum, operational airborne and satellite sensors, image processing strategies, applications of remote sensing and linkages of remote sensing with GIS. Furthermore, the students are exposed to various computer exercises and hands-on projects/applications involving the use of PCI Image Analysis/GIS software.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Urban Ecosystems
Course Number: ECOS012
This course focuses on the impact of urbanization on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Students will study ecosystem components and interactions of their own living space, the college, and the greater Metropolitan Toronto bioregion. Extensive field trips and site observations focus on the impacts of urbanization on natural systems and current mitigation and restoration techniques.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Semester 6
Applications of GIS in Natural Resources
Course Number: GEOM003
This course provides students with the opportunity to explore how GIS technology is being used in a wide variety of natural resource and environmental applications locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally. Hands-on experience using ArcView GIS will allow students to continue to develop their GIS analysis skills. Term projects will provide the opportunity to use GIS as a tool to facilitate the management of, or solution to, a natural resource or environmental plan.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Corporate Sustainable Development
Course Number: ECOS005
This course examines the methodology, reasoning, and techniques used in the production of sustainable development plans for industry. It examines the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14000 system used to set ecological objectives and targets in the corporate world. Current corporate sustainable development practices and plans will be discussed.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Credit for Product II: Field Placement
Course Number: FLPL078
Pre-requisites
This is a student placement undertaken with an agency and approved by the course instructor(s). It is designed to provide the student with an opportunity to apply ecosystem management skills and knowledge and to allow for the refinement of basic project management skills.
Units: 90.00
Hours: 90.00
Ecosystem Health
Course Number: ECOS006
Students will focus on problem-solving and the prescription of management intervention to sustain values of ecosystems. Your goal is maintenance of diversity while ensuring that ecosystems are maximized, healthy and sustainable. The course links selected readings, peer-teacher activities and case studies. Participation and leadership will be the basis of evaluation.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Principles of Wildlife Management
Course Number: FIWI030
This course examines the life history, biology, and habitat requirements of a variety of wildlife species. Instruction will include standard field and laboratory techniques used in the study of wildlife populations and the basic principles of wildlife management. Current methodology involved in assessing habitat quality and setting harvest limits and targets of selected big game species will be considered.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00
Urban and Regional Planning
Course Number: FSTY054
Through individual guided projects, students will discover the dynamics of planning legislation in directing the growth and form of communities and regions. Using example areas in southern Ontario, the development controls that direct the planning of regions and communities will be examined and tested.
Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00