Faculty of Science
Natural Resource Science (NRS)
NRS Program Info
Student Information
NRS Faculty
Contact Science

Natural Resource Science Course Descriptions

Below is a list of Course Descriptions for courses offered by the Natural Resource Sciences Department. Descriptions for required courses that are offered through other departments (e.g. English, Chemistry, Biology, Economics etc.) can be found in the TRU Calendar.

NRSC 1120

NRSC 1120

Dendrology 1 (3,0,2)(L) 3 credits

Dendrology is a survey of the structure, function, ecology, and identification of trees. The lecture component deals with two major areas: 1) the structure and function of trees, i.e., reproduction, development, anatomy, morphology and physiology; 2) the ecology and evolution of trees.

The laboratory surveys a selection of Canadian, North American, and introduced tree species. Deciduous species are emphasized in NRSC 112 and coniferous species in NRSC 122. Field trips are an integral part of the course.

Prerequisite: Biology 11 or BIOL 0500, (preferably Biology 12 or BIOL 0620)

Corequisite: BIOL 1110

NRSC 1220

NRSC 1220

Dendrology 2 (3,0,2)(L) 3 credits

This course is a continuation of Dendrology 1. The laboratory surveys a selection of B.C., Canadian, North American and introduced coniferous tree species.

Prerequisite: NRSC 1120

Corequisite: BIOL 1210

NRSC 2000

NRSC 2000

Introduction to the Study of Soils (3,0,2)(L) 3 credits

This course surveys the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils. Topics include soil formation, classification, use and conservation. Particular emphasis will be placed on forest soils.

Prerequisite: BIOL 1110/1210, NRSC 1120/1220

Corequisite: CHEM 1100

NRSC 2100

NRSC 2100

Forest Ecology and Silvics 1 (3,0,2)(L) 3 credits

The main objectives of this course are to facilitate your learning of the complexities and interactions that make up forest ecosystems and how this knowledge can be used in predicting forest ecosystem responses to both natural and human induced disturbances. By the end of this course you will have an understanding and appreciation of: Forest ecosystem structures and functions, and how these components interact; how forest ecosystems change over time and the ecological effects of various forest management practices on these systems; the spatial variation in forest ecosystems, methods of describing these variations, and the characteristics of Biogeoclimatic zones in BC, and; the identification and interpretive use of indicator plant species in the description of forest ecosystems.

Prerequisite: NRSC 1120/1220 or completion of first year general science with NRSC 1120 as a corequisite

NRSC 2110

NRSC 2110

Introduction to Forest Mensuration and Photogrammetry (3,0,2)(L) 3 credits

This course teaches the student techniques used in basic photogrammetry, photo mapping and photo-based inventory systems. Use of maps and mapping systems will be implemented. Techniques for the measurement of tree stand variables, calculating tree volumes, estimating form and taper, as well as timber scaling and grading will be taught. Regression techniques will be used in the analysis of data collected by students. Some weekend fieldwork may be required.

Prerequisite: COMP 1350

Corequisite: STAT 2000 or BIOL 3000

NRSC 2200

NRSC 2200

Forest Ecology and Silvics 2 (3,0,2)(L) 3 credits

This course examines the ecological and silvical characteristics of forest trees of Western Canada with emphasis on ecological site assessment and applications of silvics in silviculture. This course will also explore the identification and interpretive use of indicator plant species in the description of forest ecosystems, the soil and site features used in determining site quality and the diagnostic procedures used in determining site quality.

Prerequisite: NRSC 1120, completion of first year sciences and with NRSC 1220 as a corequisite; NRSC 2100

Corequisite: NRSC 2000

AGSC 2200

AGSC 2200

Food Systems at a Local Level and Beyond (4,0,0) 3 credits

An introductory course to agriculture and food systems focusing on the local level but including information on global systems. Discussions will focus on agriculture, local food production, food security and food policy, sustainability, commercialization, and globalization. Class case studies and projects will be used to help students to apply concepts learned during lecture and to develop critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and conflict resolution skills.

Note: Students cannot receive credit for both AGSC 2100 and AGSC 2200

NRSC 1110

NRSC 1110

The Science and Management of Natural Resources (2,0,2) 3 credits

The goal of this course is to provide students with an overview of current issues in management of natural resources. It serves as an introductory core course in the Bachelor of Natural Resource Science program, but is tailored for all students with a general interest in natural resources. The lectures and labs in the course provide a general overview of how scientific inquiry and knowledge can be integrated with social, economic and cultural values to provide a basis for development of management strategies. The topics covered span a diversity of resource issues including forestry, soils, rangeland, water, fisheries, wildlife, and entomology. The course is a lecture series, class discussion, and laboratory exercises presented by faculty in the Department of Natural Resource Sciences.

NRSC 2230

NRSC 2230

Geographic Information Systems (2,3,3)(L) 4 credits

This course is an introduction to basic concepts and applications of geographic information systems. The major topics are: spatial analysis systems; applications of GIS on microcomputers to natural resource systems; spatial data entry; data compilation; and map output. Same as GEOG 2750.

Prerequisite: P.C. computer skills

NRSC 3000

NRSC 3000

Diversity and Ecology of the Vertebrates (3,0,3) (L) 3 credits

This course provides an introduction to vertebrate biology for students in the natural resource field. The course has three main themes: animal ecology, comparative anatomy, and the systematics and identification of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Lectures address the evolutionary ecology of these groups, including the adaptive significance of morphological, physiological and behavioural traits. Key concepts of vertebrate ecology are introduced, such as predator-prey theory, optimal foraging strategy, reproductive success, dispersal, metapopulation theory, and wildlife management. Basic vertebrate anatomy and functional morphology also are covered. Laboratory work involves anatomical dissections and the taxonomic identification of terrestrial vertebrates, particularly those species found in British Columbia.

Prerequisite: An introductory course in ecology or evolution is recommended. Students who have taken BIOL 2250 or its equivalent need to contact the instructor prior to registering in the course. Students who have taken BIOL 4270 cannot receive credit for this course.

Note: Students who have taken BIOL 2250 and/or BIOL 4270 cannot receive credit for this course

NRSC 3110

NRSC 3110

Grassland Ecology (3,0,2)(L) 3 credits

An introduction to grassland ecology principles with the focus on BC grassland systems. Lectures will cover the difference between grasslands and rangelands, grassland physical characteristics, grassland ecosystems with a focus on BC grassland plant communities, plant physiology, succession, assessment theories, and monitoring of grassland, shrubland and savanna ecosystems. Lab will focus on grassland plant identification and characteristics of BC grassland plant communities.

Prerequisite: FRST/NRSC 2100 or BIOL 3020 or permission of the instructor

NRSC 3170

NRSC 3170

Ichthyology (3,0,3)(L) 3 credits

The systematics, anatomy, physiology, life history and ecology of freshwater and marine fishes. Students will learn to identify local freshwater fishes, as well as representative fish orders from around the world. Same as BIOL 3290.

Prerequisite: FRST 2100 or BIOL 3020

Corequisite: BIOL 3030

NRSC 3200

NRSC 3200

Silviculture (3,0,2)(L) 3 credits

This course emphasizes silvicultural concepts and principles as they apply to forest stand and landscape level management. Specific topics will include principles of forest tree improvement; seed handling; nursery practices and artificial regeneration; natural regeneration and stand tending practices (thinning, pruning, vegetation management, fertilization and site preparation. As well, different silviculture systems will be discussed in relation to economics, wildlife, biodiversity, and sustainability. The laboratories are designed as both filed exercises and indoor laboratory sections (including computer modelling). There will also be several field trips dealing with forest nursery operations, woodlot management, and forest operations.

Prerequisite: FRST 2000, FRST 2100, 2110, 2200

NRSC 3210

NRSC 3210

Range Management (3,2,0) 3 credits

A course on applied range ecology and range management planning. Lectures will cover such areas as range history, range inventory and monitoring, animal management, stocking rates, animal distribution, grazing systems, cultivated forages, range improvements and developments, integrated use, legislation, and current grassland issues. Course material will be used to develop a range management plan.

Prerequisite: NRSC 3110

NRSC 3250

NRSC 3250

Natural Resource Field Studies (0,1,8)(0,1,0)(L) 3 credits

This course provides students in the BNRS program with hands-on experience in the field, on a variety of topics pertinent to natural resource management. Under the rotating supervision of different faculty members, students conduct field surveys or visit sites where management activities are underway. The exercises include GIS and vegetation mapping, soil analyses, range management, and fisheries and wildlife work. Some field exercises require data analysis and written reports. Participation and completion of all field trips and subsequent reports are required. This course also serves the purpose of providing pertinent field trips for other concurrent fourth-year courses in the BNRS program. Some weekend field work is required.

Prerequisite: NRSC 2230, NRSC 4130, BIOL 3000 and fourth year standing in the BNRS program

Corequisite: NRSC 3210/3220

NRSC 3260

NRSC 3260

Limnology (3,0,3)(L) 3 credits

Theoretical and applied aspects of limnology. Consideration of the ecology of inland water organisms in relation to physical, chemical and biological factors affecting their interactions and production. One weekend field trip required. Same as BIOL 4020.

Prerequisite: FRST 2100 or BIOL 3020, BIOL 3000

NRSC 4020

NRSC 4020

Natural Resource Entomology (2,0,2)(L) 3 credits

Environmental and economic role of insects in forest ecosystems; identification and basic biology of major groups of forest insects; behavioural ecology and population dynamics of major insect pests; introduction to chemical ecology of insects; forest health and beneficial/pest insect balance; introduction to management strategies for major forest insect pests and implications in context of the Forest Practices Code.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3030, FRST 2100/2200

Corequisite: NRSC 3200

NRSC 4030

NRSC 4030

Natural Resource Pathology (2,0,2)(L) 3 credits

Pathology deals with the biology (anatomy, morphology, physiology, lifecycles), ecology, identification, and management of diseases. This course will emphasize the common tree diseases of western North American forests, British Columbia in particular. The course will include information on diseases of ornamental trees and common pathogens of animals.

Prerequisite: FRST 2100/2200, BIOL 3030

Corequisite: NRSC 3200, NRSC 4020, NRSC 4130

NRSC 4100

NRSC 4100

Fisheries Management (3,2,0) 3 credits

Topics will include methods of quantitative stock assessment, fisheries regulations, habitat restoration, stocking and government policy. Students will use microcomputers to model recruitment, mortality and yield of various fisheries.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3030, FRST 2100 or BIOL 3020, NRSC 3170/3260

NRSC 4110

NRSC 4110

Watershed Management (3,2,0) 3 credits

An introduction to the basic principles of wildland hydrology and watershed management. The role of climate, physiography and vegetation in watershed function. The effects of land use on streamflow quantity, timing and water quality. Techniques used in monitoring, and assessing the impacts of land management on the water resource.

Prerequisite: FRST 2000/2100/2200

NRSC 4130

NRSC 4130

Fire Ecology and Management (3,2,0) 3 credits

This course is designed to provide the student with a solid understanding of the importance of fire to ecosystems, communities, species, and human society. The first part of the course will be devoted to understanding what fire is, and how it interacts with the abiotic and biotic environment. In the second part of the course, the focus will shift to the importance of fire in a historical, social and political context. Time also will be devoted to understanding the theory, principles, tools, and organization of fire management, particularly as it applies to British Columbia and other regions of Canada. The basic and foremost goal of this course is to increase the student’s awareness of the role of fire in ecosystems.

Prerequisite: BIOL 3000 and one of BIOL 2110, BIOL 3020, FRST 1120, or FRST 2100. Students in the Natural Resource Science program should take this course in conjunction with NRSC 4020 and/or NRSC 4030.

NRSC 4140

NRSC 4140

Natural Resource Policy and Planning (3,2,0) 3 credits

This course will focus on land and resource use policies and laws, and their administration in British Columbia, particularly as affected by aboriginal rights and title. It will also provide an overview of specific land and resource policies in British Columbia, and illustrate the policy cycle through teaching the fundamentals of strategic land and resource use planning.

Prerequisite: 3rd year standing in the BNRS program or GEOG 3100 or permission of the instructor. NRSC 2230 (may be taken concurrently).

NRSC 4210

NRSC 4210

Conflict Resolution in the Natural Resources (2,2,0) 3 credits

An exploration of the principles of conflict and conflict resolution as they are used and applied, with focus in the area of natural resource management. Topics include what conflict is, how it arises, and how consensus is achieved by facilitation, interest-based negotiation and/or mediation. Emphasis is placed on moving beyond simple problem-solving to the actual resolution of underlying conflicts and issues, such as shifting from positional to interest-based arguments. Reviews of past, current and emerging conflicts in the natural resource sector also are incorporated into the course. Considerable time is devoted to role-playing exercises, during which students learn from one another as they enact mock conflict situations.

Prerequisite: 4th year standing in the BNRS program

Corequisite: NRSC 4110

NRSC 4230

NRSC 4230

Graduating Essay (3,0,0) 3 credits

An essay or technical report completed under the direction of a faculty member. The essay can be a technical review and description of a scientific study or a detailed literature review of a selected subject area appropriate for the BNRS degree program. With permission of the Department one year prior to enroling in the course, students may use data from personal research. Students will be required to make an oral presentation summarizing the essay.

Prerequisite: Final year in the BNRS program

NRSC 4250

NRSC 4250

Tropical Field Studies in Natural Resources (3,3,30)(L) 3 or 6 credits

This course serves to introduce students to the issues, approaches and people involved with natural resource management in a tropical country. Topics covered will depend on the specific destination, but generally include an examination of the ecological, social, economic and cultural aspects of natural resource management in the tropics. The scheduling and duration (and hence credit allotment) also varies with destination. Enrollment in this course is not restricted to students in the Natural Resource Science department; rather, a diverse study body is desirable, and hence students from a variety of program and disciplines are admissible. However, the size of the class is limited, and all potential students must submit an application in which they explain the relevance of the course to their own studies and interests. It is the responsibility of all students to consult with their program advisor(s) to determine whether they will receive credit for this course. For details on the current offering of the course, including current destination, content, cost, and application procedure, students should contact the instructor by going through the Department of Natural Resource Sciences at TRU.

Prerequisite: preferably 3rd or 4th year standing in a relevant degree program at TRU or elsewhere; other students may be admitted depending upon qualifications and demand

NRSC 4980

NRSC 4980

Honours Seminar (0,2*,0)(0,2*,0) 2 credits

This course serves to provide honours students with constructive criticism of their thesis research project. It also allows students to explore and discuss topics of particular relevance to the field of natural resource science. The seminars consist of readings, group discussions, and alternating seminar presentations by students and interested faculty. Students register in this course in both the Fall and Winter terms of their last academic year of study.

Prerequisite: 4th year standing in the BNRS Honours program

Corequisite: NRSC 4990

* Denotes seminars run alternate weeks

NRSC 4990

NRSC 4990

Honours Thesis - 6 credits

This course requires an original research project conducted by students in the Honours Program of the Bachelor of Natural Resource Science (BNRS) degree. It is completed under the direction of a faculty member in the Department of Natural Resource Sciences, or a scientist from outside the department. Students accepted into the BNRS Honours Program register in this course in both the Fall and Winter semesters of their final academic year.

Prerequisite: 4th year standing in the BNRS Honours program

Corequisite: NRSC 4980

For more information, comments or suggestions e-mail: ncornell@tru.ca