Course Objectives ~ Textbooks ~ Policies~ Grading
Course objectives:
Limnology is the study of inland waters. This course integrates aspects of chemistry,
physics, hydrology, and ecology to create a holistic perspective on lakes and
other freshwater ecosystems. Emphasis will be on human impacts and interactions with aquatic systems and the
synthesis of ideas.
Textbooks:
Introduction to Limnology by Stanley Dodson (2005). Required. This is the main text we will be using.
Please note that lectures will not follow the same order as the chapters in the
text; see the syllabus for readings. The textbook is available at the
Underground Textbook Exchange on Lake St.
Limnology : inland water ecosystems by Jacob Kalff. Not required. This text goes into more detail than
Dodson's book. It is on reserve at the Biology Library in Birge Hall.
Limnology : lake and river ecosystems by Robert Wetzel is a very thorough textbook. Not required.
It is also on reserve at the Biology library.
Limnology by Horne & Goldman. Not required. This text will be used to supplement the readings.
Policies:
Students are expected to attend class and
complete required readings. Because of the condensed nature of the course, late work will NOT
be accepted—no exceptions. Due dates are final. If a medical or other emergency arises, you
are expected to contact me immediately to discuss special requests.
Grading
QUIZZES: 15%
There will be a brief, end-of-class quiz during every class (test dates excluded).
Each quiz will be worth approximately 1% of your grade. These quizzes will be based
on the current material, though they may require knowledge of past lectures.
EXAMS: 65%
Exam 1 (July 10th): 30% (covers lectures 1-6)
Exam 2 (August 9th): 35% (covers lectures 7-14)
Mandatory field trip on Lake Mendota: 10%
A brief field trip on 6/29 (students enrolled in 316 need not attend). Students will be asked
to sign up for a one-hour time slot to go out on Lake Mendota and do limnological sampling.
Please wear sturdy shoes and clothing that can get dirty; we will be sampling water as well
as bottom sediments. There will be an assignment to complete based on your work.
Critical Analysis of Water Issues: 10%
Details to be posted soon.