All FWCB students complete three field classes as part of their degree requirements. During these classes, students are immersed in the study of Minnesota's flora and fauna in both aquatic and terrestrial settings. Your path through the curriculum will be most successful if you take these classes during sophomore or junior year. The classes help you develop critical field skills that are used through the remainder of your undergraduate experience.
FW 3104 Skills for Field Techniques in Habitat Assessment, Research, and Conservation is a 2 credit, online class taught in Fall and Spring semesters. FW 3106 Vegetation Sampling for Habitat Assessments is a 1 credit class offered in fall only. FW 3108 Field Methods in Research and Conservation of Vertebrate Populations is 3 credits and is offered fall and spring.
FW 3104
Skills for Field Techniques in Habitat Assessment, Research, and Conservation
(2 cr, Fall, Spring, Online)
In this field-preparation and application class, students develop skills required for the field session (FW 3106 + FW 3108) and future professional positions in fisheries, wildlife, and conservation biology. Students complete a series of online activities that prepare them to use analytical tools (e.g., tools for statistical analysis, GIS/GPS, spatial methodology, advanced lab- and field-based skills). Students build knowledge about Minnesota species including identification and natural history information of plants, amphibians and reptiles, birds, fish, and mammals. Students demonstrate readiness for fieldwork by conducting an independent, field-focused project.
FW 3106
Vegetation sampling for habitat assessment
(1 cr. Fall)
Common vegetation sampling methods used for habitat assessments. Identify approximately 75 vascular plant species typical of Minnesota terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems using taxonomic keys and readily observable traits. Importance of plants for providing food, cover, and nesting habitat.
FW 3108
Field Methods in Research and Conservation of Vertebrate Populations
(3 cr, Fall, Spring, FW 3104 pre-req)
Planning/implementation of research/management projects. Collect/analyze data in groups. Group/individual oral/written reports. Students are expected to keep field journals during the course.