Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

 Course Title:   Stream Ecology

 Title Abbreviation:   STREAM ECOLOGY

 Department:    ENVC

 Course #:    122

 Credits:    5

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    5.5

 CIP:    030101

 EPC:    165

 REV:    2021


 Course Description  

Introduction to physical, chemical and biological components of lotic systems and their anthropogenic impacts. Sampling techniques, lab procedures, water quality and stream habitat will be evaluated. Perform bioassessment. Exploration of global and cultural issues in relation to rivers.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: ENVC 112 with a "C" or higher.

Additional Course Details

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 44

Lab: 22

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0


Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Vocational Preparatory Required for ATA degree  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
N/A

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Identify necessary water quality and habitat parameters to be assessed.
  2. Understand and work with stream parameters qualitatively and quantitatively.
  3. Perform water quality tests in the field and in the laboratory.
  4. Identify land uses, water uses and their effects on stream and rivers.
  5. Understand and identify cultural issues regarding water quality, stream habitat, and uses on a local and global scale.
  6. Critical thinking skills developed through homeworks.
  7. Perform bioassessments of streams.
  8. PROGRAM OUTCOME: Conduct water quality (WQ) analyses and reporting according to accreditation standards by Washington Department of Ecology.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

Course Contents

  1. Channels and flow, water chemistry. Physical factors.
  2. Primary production. Trophic relationships.
  3. Predation, herbivory, competition. Drift.
  4. Organic matter. Nutrients.
  5. Anthropogenic impacts.