The Living Deserts of North America

What does the desert smell like after it rains, and why? How do desert organisms cope with harsh environmental conditions in diverse ways? How have socio-ecological systems shaped desert landscapes? In this course we will explore these types of questions through hands-on, experiential learning and place-based scientific observation. As a class we will gain background knowledge of desert ecology before a 10-day trip to the Mojave, Great Basin, and Colorado Plateau Deserts of Western North America. Students will gain exposure to a diversity of desert landscapes, engage in round-table discussions with local and Indigenous groups around social and environmental issues impacting deserts, and conduct an independent field research project. This course requires participation in a 10-day field trip to the Southwest during spring break. (BIOL 140 and instructor approval). 3 hrs. lecture, 10-day lab/field travel.