Introduction to Ecosystem Restoration
Ecosystem restoration has been identified by the United Nations as a critically needed focus for the coming decades. This course introduces the basic steps and processes of ecosystem restoration, using guidelines and resources developed by the Society of Ecosystem Restoration. Case studies demonstrate application across different ecosystem types and geographic regions. Particular attention is given to agricultural grassland restoration, as agricultural lands cover about 40% of the Earth’s land surface and have been largely degraded, affecting food and water security, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. Students engage with projects, data sets, and stakeholder networks connected to the Professor’s research and outreach program. Each student develops a small project that includes writing a research proposal and delivering a final presentation.
Topics
- Develop a basic restoration plan for any ecosystem, following the Society of Ecological Restoration guidelines.
- Understand the underlying biophysical processes that are critical to sustainable ecosystem restoration, and the use of reference systems to identify specific, relevant processes to a project.
- Identify, and engage with, all relevant stakeholders, including indigenous communities, to determine baseline information relevant to restoration planning, and potential community contributions to restoration activities.
- Design and analyze relevant metrics of restoration progress and success for diverse dimensions, including stakeholder engagement, soil health, vegetation, invasive removal, and wildlife restoration.
- Write a simple research grant proposal, incorporating all standard elements (e.g. background justification, goals and objectives, methods, budget, timeline).
Official roster learning outcomes
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027