Meets the following requirements: HS   

This environmental policy course is designed to be taught in conjunction with a course taught by Helen Hess (River Ecology) to generate an interdisciplinary, 2-unit course examining rivers.  This course is taught in seminar format in which students will read and discuss historical, sociological, political and legal aspects of river conservation and watershed protection.  Special emphasis is placed on understanding the policy issues surrounding dams, river protection, and watershed planning.  In conjunction with readings and class discussions, students will conduct a field study on a local stream to learn about the threats facing streams in this nation and the legal and policy mechanisms for addressing these threats.  Through weekly excursions on Maine rivers, students will also develop skills to enable them to paddle a tandem canoe in intermediate whitewater.  Evaluation will be based on problem sets, role-playing exercises, contributions to class projects, short essays, and paddling skills.  THIS COURSE MUST BE TAKEN WITH ES-415, RIVER ECOLOGY.

Level: Intermediate.  Prerequisits: Permission of Instructor.  *HS*