Module 1: Integrative Forest Ecology– 10 Lessons begin that begin with a bioregional perspective and ends with connecting to local forested systems. Descriptions outline how climate, geology, and topography have shaped the ecology of the North Coast, why trees and forests are important to humans and wildlife. Students will learn about tree growth, local conifer species, competitive advantages, and how to take forest measurements. They will explore ecosystem dynamics and functioning and integrate concepts relevant to all forested ecosystems, such as providing ecosystems services, maintaining biodiversity, and cycling carbon in a terrestrial system.
Module 2: Behind the Redwood Curtain– Get to know the coast redwoods up close and personal with ten lessons that cover components of the quintessential forest species of the North Coast, the coast redwood. Difficult to find information about redwoods is given including the evolutionary history, distribution, size, and importance of these tallest trees on Earth. In this module you will find some easy to read scientific data are incorporated including information explaining why these forests store more above-ground carbon compared to any other forest type. Additionally, students will learn why these climax forests are true rainforests and will understand how old-growth forest structure can lead to greater ecological functioning. Lessons have students integrating scientific skills by graphically representing tree size, biomass, and effects of forest thinning. In addition, students will explore issues regarding how humans have impacted these forests, how various management techniques influence this forest type, and how natural disturbances such as fire and floods can enhance biodiversity.
Module 3: Our Disappearing Oak Woodlands– This module attempts to reveal the various factors responsible for supporting and altering these exceptionally diverse landscapes unique to California. Oaks are highly variable and widely distributed. Eight species are emphasized here, including tanoak, somewhat ubiquitous species living on the North Coast. Lessons have students understanding competitive dynamics, learning about Sudden Oak Death (SOD), and exploring interconnected relationships between oaks – a keystone species – and other organisms. In some lessons, students will analyze data regarding oak response to conifer thinning, will sequence the evolutionary history of oaks, and will draw conclusions regarding the abiotic and biotic factors influential in acorn mast events among other things.
