PhD-Course: Watershed Ecology and Biogeochemistry

Here we will take an integrative approach that focuses on the hydrological, biogeochemical, and ecological connections between upland, riparian, and aquatic components of forest landscapes. Specific topics includes:

• 1) an overview of catchment hydrology and water balance,
• 2) elemental transport and processing along hillslopes and riparian zones,
• 3) controls over material exchange at the land-water interface, 4) biogeochemical cycling in streams and rivers,
• 5) the biogeochemical significance of wetlands and lakes within catchments, and
• 6) the interface between forest management and watershed science in boreal lands.

General themes in watershed science will be explored through discussions of literature that will be coordinated with short lectures. More specific questions and methodological approaches will be introduced using a series of excursions and activities within the Krycklan catchment.

/Hjalmar Laudon

Course evaluation feedback from previous courses

“I think this was the most equilibrate course I have attended”

“It was a great experience and brain storming in various issues related to landscape functioning”

 “The depth of questions and discussion added a level of challenge to the course that I believe increased its value tremendously”

“Excellent teachers in combination with well-motivated students resulted in a very good course. I especially liked the discussions in small groups, very interesting!”

The course provides a broad yet mechanistic understanding of watershed science using the Krycklan Catchment Study at the Svartberget field station in Vindeln (Sweden) as a teaching laboratory. The course includes a combination of short lectures, field excursions and exercises, discussion of literature, and student-led presentations – all designed to foster close interaction among students and instructors. Students will be examined individually based on participation in all activities, discussions, and assignments.