In this field study course students will explore, patterns of plant life in the Connecticut River eco-system. Students will learn plant taxonomy, collect and identify vascular plants naturally occurring in the local river valley basin. Lecture emphasis will be on the flowering plants, form and function, growth and development as well as relationship to the local economy and conservation principles. This course will require a short-term field-based research project, paper and/or presentation on-campus following the study. Field study labs in this course will take advantage of the major ecosystems of the Connecticut River Valley region. Laboratory learning opportunities will be on and off campus in woodland, riverbank, bog and field locations. Students will be expected to travel to offsite locations and come prepared to work in a variety of dry and wet conditions.
