The course will provide an overview of the composition, structure and function of populations, communities and ecosystems with a focus on western Canada. A fundamental treatment of ecological principles emphasizing the ecosystem concept, natural selection and speciation, nutrient cycles relating to environmental sampling, energy relationships, limiting factors, population dynamics, and community ecology will be examined. The laboratory component includes practical studies of local ecosystems and population dynamics, with practice classifying Ecosites of West-central Alberta. The lab will also introduce small mammal handling.