Module Descriptors
MANAGING FRESHWATER HABITATS
BIOL70458
Key Facts
School of Health, Science and Wellbeing
Level 7
15 credits
Contact
Leader: Paul Mitchell
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 24
Independent Study Hours: 126
Total Learning Hours: 150
Assessment
  • REPORT weighted at 80%
  • CLASS-TEST weighted at 20%
Module Details
Module Learning Strategies
Lectures/workshops (including sessions from specialist lecturers) - 4 x 4 hrs
Field visits - 2 x 4 hrs

Further reading - 76 hrs
Assessment preparation - 50 hrs
Module Resources
Access to internet. Transport for field visits
Module Texts
Moss, B. (2010) Ecology of Fresh Waters: A View for the Twenty-First Century, 4th Edition. Wiley-Blackwell, Chichester

The River restoration Centre (2002) Manual of River Restoration Techniques.
Web Edition: http://www.therrc.co.uk/rrc_manual_pdf.php
Module Additional Assessment Details
80% - 3000-word restoration/management report. This will assess outcomes 1 & 2.

20% - Class test. Interpretation of water quality data (1.5 hrs). This will assess outcome 3.

Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback / assessment:
Formative Feedback: A group-based formative test will be undertaken to develop students' data interpretation skills. In addition, formative feedback on the report will be offered prior to final submission.
Module Indicative Content
The module starts with a brief review of the ecology and hydrology of freshwater ecosystems. The module then focuses on how freshwater habitats are monitored and how conservation value can be assessed (e.g. SERCON and River Habitat Survey). We then focus on the creation, restoration and management of aquatic ecosystems, including semi-aquatic habitats such as reedbeds and mires, and give consideration to the impacts of water pollution. We also look at fish conservation and the Water Framework Directive. Other issues covered include conservation of aquatic animal species such as otters and water voles, and the control of invasive plants.