Deadly Freshwater Ecosystems

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Dark Waters: Dangerous and Deadly Freshwater Ecosystems “Thousands have lived without love, not one without water” (W.H. Auden) But the water that sustains us often becomes dangerous, even deadly. In this course, we will explore the physical, chemical, and biological dynamics of freshwater ecosystems, with an emphasis on understanding the factors that can lead to extreme or threatening conditions. We will analyze case studies about waves and swells, gas emissions from volcanic lakes, toxic algal blooms, contaminated sediments, vanishing drinking water supplies, and other perilous phenomena. The course uses a combination of lecture, discussion, readings, and interactive exercises, and emphasizes understanding and communicating about the science of freshwater threats.