Environmental Monitoring and Assessment

This module will provide the learners with an introduction to environmental monitoring and assessment, including the scientific basis for monitoring. The module will address legislation pertaining to the evaluation of environmental quality and of management practice. In addition to, addressing use of monitoring data in assessing the consequences of natural resource management actions and pollution risks to the environment. Water quality will be described in terms of pollutants, biotic indices, toxicology testing and management plans. Key elements of biodiversity assessment will be introduced, as well as impacts of biodiversity loss and the role of biodiversity in facilitating ecosystem services. Concepts and techniques for the assessment of megafauna distribution and abundance will also be introduced.

1. Have a knowledge of legislation pertaining to environmental monitoring and assessment, including national, European and international legal frameworks.

2. Define water pollutants of concern and use of appropriate techniques to investigate the effects pollution can have on water quality and wildlife. Including applying biotic indices for water quality data evaluation.

3. Understand the challenges and opportunities in the measurement and assessment of biological diversity (biodiversity), and application of methodologies for such work.

4. Be informed of appropriate techniques to assess mega-fauna biodiversity, including mapping their distribution.

5. Describe how informed management procedures may ameliorate the environmental effects of problems resulting from anthropogenic activities.