BOT270 Nature Mapping

Knowledge:

The student should gain knowledge on Norwegian nature and the land cover class system NiN, the structure, ecology and species composition, diagnostic species of Norwegian nature types and knowledge on variation and distribution of Norwegian nature types. The students shall gain understanding of co variation between nature types and environmental factors. They should also gain knowledge on GIS and how GIS can be used to make good maps of nature types based on NiN.

Skills:

Be able to map, identify and define nature types in the field. They should be able to recognice plant species in the field, collect relevant data, and to use GIS to make maps of nature types and to analyse the data. They should be able to apply knowledge on nature types to describe properties such as soil conditions, hydrology, fertility, endurance ability, extent and type of cultural influence of a given area. Be able to assess consequences of different encroachments in different nature types, with emphasis on biological diversity and sustainable nature management.

General competence:

The course will further develop the students understanding of Norwegian nature diversity and how to document and describe nature by using NiN. Students should be able to plan and carry out data collection in the field. They should be able to plan and carry out tasks that extend over time, both alone and as a participant in a group.