Conservation Biology & Service Learning: coastal ecosystems, restoration and communities

Introduction to marine conservation biology emphasizing community outreach at local middle schools. Material focuses on issues in marine conservation and how they are addressed. Lectures cover principles of conservation, biodiversity, extinction risks, genetic tools, fishery by-catch, over-exploitation, habitat degradation, invasive species, climate change, and marine protected areas. Based on class discussions, students will develop and teach activities that address local conservation topics for middle school students. Taught in Beaufort at Duke Marine Lab. Recommended prerequisite: introductory biology.