ENSC 408 Wildfire Science and Management Units: 3.00
We currently face a wildfire crisis; increasing burned area and fire intensity driven by past fire management practices and climate change. Students will be given a comprehensive overview of wildfire science and management and challenged to critically analyze the complex ecological, socioeconomic, environmental, and cultural challenges that wildfires present.
NOTE Some basic quantitative (Chem/Phys/Math) calculations and problem solving are elements of this course. Students without any prior course experience in quantitative sciences should contact the course instructor to discuss before enrolling.
NOTE Some basic quantitative (Chem/Phys/Math) calculations and problem solving are elements of this course. Students without any prior course experience in quantitative sciences should contact the course instructor to discuss before enrolling.
Learning Hours: 120 (18 Lecture, 18 Group Learning, 48 Online Activity, 36 Private Study)
Requirements: Prerequisite (Level 3 or above and registration in an ENSC Major, ENVS Major, ENVS Joint Honours, EBIO, ECHM, EGEO, EGPY, ELSC, or ETOX Plan) or permission of the School.
Exclusion ENSC 480/3.0 (Topic Title: Wildfire Science and Management - Winter 2023, Winter 2024, Winter 2025).
Offering Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Science
Course Learning Outcomes:
- Be introduced to the Indigenous Knowledge centred concept of "Good Fire", and the critical role fire plays in natural ecosystems.
- Understand the complexities of wildfire from the interdisciplinary lenses of physical, natural, social, and Indigenous science perspectives.
- Comprehend and critically analyse the fundamental drivers of the current wildfire crisis.
- Understand and evaluate of the effectiveness of existing management practices in mitigating wildfire risks and impacts, and strategize on proposed and novel solutions.
- Gain proficiency in engaging in academic literature across disciplines, particularly as it pertains to interdisciplinary topics such as wildfire.