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Dredge Today, Restore Tomorrow

By Kristine N. Hopfensperger

Dredge Today, Restore Tomorrow


 

Abstract

In this case study, students role-play members of a task force whose task it is to advise the Director of the National Park Service (their instructor) on the best location for creating a wetland using dredge material from the Potomac River.  Students apply previously learned knowledge about wetland ecology (i.e. hydrology, soils, and plants) to a wetland restoration decision. Through the case, students increase their understanding of the principles of ecosystem ecology and the complexity of natural resource management dilemmas. The case was developed for a wetland ecology course, but would also work well in an ecosystem ecology or natural resource management course.

   

Date Posted

03/14/2011

Overview

Objectives

  • Use previously learned knowledge of wetland ecology to determine the most suitable location for the beneficial use of dredge material.
  • Understand the importance of ecosystem and landscape variables that either influence or are influenced by a wetland restoration effort.
  • Understand the variety of concerned groups interested in wetland restoration efforts.
  • Gain an appreciation for the complexities involved with wetland restoration.
  • Gain experience working with a group on a management dilemma.

Keywords

Restoration; wetland; ecosystem; environmental decision-making; Potomac River; Chesapeake Bay; Washington, DC; Virginia

  

Subject Headings

Ecology
Environmental Engineering
Environmental Science
Natural Resource Management

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

Policy issues, Social issues

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Dilemma/Decision, Jig-Saw, Role-Play

 

 

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