·      You must attend one of three weekly 3 hour practicalsessions, usually held in 11WW (E5A) 240

·       Lectorialsare held each Monday at 12 pm in 14SC (E7B) T3 and Thursday at 2 pm in 14SC (E7B) T3

·      There are two compulsory 2 day fieldtripsfor all students: 6-7 April, and 18-19 May

PRACTICAL CLASSEScomprise a practical exercise, including map and air photo interpretation, numerical analysis, examination of rocks and sediments or local fieldwork.  Practicals provide hands-on experience of the topics in each module and are designed to assist learning by encouraging your active participation.  The venue of the practical classes varies (see page 2). The week 1 practical is held in 11WW (E5A) 240 and some other practicals will be held in the field within a short distance from the university.  Each student must bring the appropriate equipment to the practical session and pre-read the practical description.  Equipment may include; pencils, ruler, calculator, field note book. You should also wear appropriate clothes for the laboratory (week 1) and field: closed shoes, sun protection etc.

LECTORIALSare designed to give depth and background to the practical learning. They provide you with a framework with which to focus your study of the subject and are an essential and important component of the course.  They are by no means exhaustive on each and every topic, and you are expected to supplement them by reading especially from the textbook but also from the current journals, where the most up-to-date information can be found. There is a reading list for you to use as a starting point later in this document, and additional material will be referred to during the lecture program. Slides will be available on-line through https://ilearn.mq.edu.au/ for viewing and/or printing but they are not a replacement for attending classes. 

FIELD WORKThere are two compulsoryweekend fieldtrips in this unit during which a range of natural and human-modified landscape features are examined.  Each of these fieldtrips reinforces and extends the content of the Soils and Coasts modules (first fieldtrip) or Catchment and Fluvial Processes module (second fieldtrip). The major assignments are based on these field trips.  In addition, three of the weekly practicals (Weeks 2, 3 and 9) will be conducted in the field within the normal practical class times.  The assignments and fieldtrips are described in detail elsewhere in this book.  Equipment and safety issues for field work are described below.

TEXTBOOKS and ESSENTIAL READINGS

The following texts are suggested as being valuable reading. You are not required to purchase them, but may find them useful.  There are some copies in the library.

·      Paton TR, Humphreys GS and Mitchell PB, 1995.  Soils: A New Global View. UCL Press.

• National Committee on Soil and Terrain, 2009. Australian Soil and Land Survey Handbook, 3^rdedition. CSIRO Publishing, Melbourne.

·       Fryirs KA and Brierley GJ, 2013. Geomorphic analysis of river systems. Wiley-Blackwell. ISBN 978-1-4051-9274-3. 

Essential readings are shown on the timetable

TECHNOLOGY USED AND REQUIRED

You will require access to a computer for parts of this unit. You can gain access to slides used for each lecture by visiting the iLearn page for ENVS266(https://ilearn.mq.edu.au/). iLearn may be used by staff to send reminders and notices concerning fieldtrips, practical classes and lectures. You should check the site regularly, especially the day before lectures/pracs. There is also the space for a bulletin board discussion between students; please feel free to use this to discuss issues relating to any aspect of the unit and geomorphology in general.  For specific questions of the lecturers, email them directly (see front cover).  For practical 4 you should use ArcMap GIS software. You will be able to access this on University laptops in the pracs, in the E5A computer labs after hours, or through iLab off campus. You may also be able to install a copy on your own computer (not on Macs), requiring a licence code issued by the University.

The major assignments must also be submitted electronically through Turnitin, via the iLearn page for this unit. This software provides a means of gauging the timing of submission, an originality checker to test for potential plagiarism and a paperless grading system, more information on this program can be found at (http://turnitin.com/) and (http://mq.edu.au/iLearn/student_info/assignments.htm) and a ‘quick guide’ in ilearn next to the Turnitin link.Many of the readings (scientific papers) are available on-line from the library.

ENVS266 Earth Surface Processes –TIMETABLE 2019

CLASS TIMETABLE

Scaffolding of lectures, practicals, fieldwork and assessment

All modules will ‘lead’ with practical experiences and will be followed by large group teaching (part lecture part tutorial) to back up and provide depth to the practical experience.

Lecture recordings are not normally available for this unit (because it is not an external unit). 

The fieldtrips build on knowledge, concepts and skills developed in the lectures and practicals.  You should prepare for each fieldtrip by reading the recommended papers, attending the lectures and practicals.

Four practicalsand the fieldtrips(field reports) are directly assessable. Knowledge and understanding of lecture contentis assessed in the mid-year examination.

We always tinker a little to try and make things better. In 2019 we are emphasising the practical basis of learning and experimenting with the nature of the lecture classes.  All modules will ‘lead’ with practical experiences and lectures will be followed by large group teaching (part lecture part tutorial) to back up and provide depth to the practical experience.

Due to unexpectedly high enrolments we have had to make late changes to the fieldtrips to cope. Some of these changes are included here and some will be advised during the semester.

Some lectures and a practical have been cut in line with Faculty requirements.  

In 2019 this unit is being co-taught as ENVS666 again.  All students in ENVS666 should make themselves known to the Convenor at the beginning of semester to discuss the modified assessment criteria.

In 2019 the unit is not offered externally.  That means that lecture recordings are not normally available, except in exceptional circumstances.

UNIT DESCRIPTION- ENVS266 3cp

Understanding how and why the Earth's surface looks and changes in the way it does is fundamental to effective environmental management. This unit examines earth surface processes from a catchment perspective: hill slopes and soils; rivers and floodplains. We draw on Australian and overseas examples from diverse environments to demonstrate how biophysical processes shape our landscape. Students gain practical, laboratory and field based skills that help them interpret the landscape. These are taught in both on campus sessions and weekend field trips. This unit builds on themes introduced in ENVS117 Biophysical Environments and GEOS112 The Planet Earth, and provides a sound conceptual background for students continuing in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Management and programs in ecology, biology, geology and archaeology. 

AIMS AND SCOPE

Welcome to ENVS266 Earth Surface Processes.  ENVS266 aims to present a unified picture of processes, materials and forms occurring at the surface of the earth.  That means how and why the earth's surface looks and behaves as it does and includes the soils, sediments and landforms as well as the processes important to them. Given its antiquity, along with its geographic, tectonic and climatic character, Australia has a distinctive and diverse landscape.  The unit therefore draws unashamedly on Australian, and often local, examples which have immediate relevance to Australian environmental problems.  The principles and ideas, however, are certainly global and possibly universal (at least applying to the solar system).  We aim to give you the 'tools' to understand landscape processes no matter where you are.  Time constraints prevent coverage of all aspects of geomorphic enquiry. Emphasis is placed on soil materials, slope, river and coastal environments, although the arid interior of Australia and other exotic places are also examined briefly and the role of human activities is examined.  Connections between various aspects of the landscape will be stressed, aiming to provide an integrative perspective on surface processes.

ENVS266 AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL EARTH SCIENCE MAJOR AT MACQUARIE

ENVS266 is the core 200-level unit in Environmental Earth Science and is the main prerequisite for the 300-level units ENVS338 (Environmental Quality and Assessment), ENVS339 (Fluvial Geomorphology and River Management), ENVS340 (Environmental Change) and ENVS341 (Advanced Environmental Earth Science) which comprise the Environmental Earth Science major. 

Environmental Earth Science describes the study of the earth’s surface, the diverse physical processes found there and the connections between them.  As the name suggests, it lies at the nexus between earth systems and biological systems – it is often concerned with landscapes and the landforms, sediments and soils within them but also, and crucially, the interaction of plants and animals in directing processes and shaping habitat. Environmental Earth Science combines aspects of Geomorphology, Soil Science, Natural Hazards, Environmental Management and Ecology.  As a consequence, graduates gain skills essential for management of natural resources, including rural rivers and lands, and highly altered landscapes, including urban environments and mining areas.

Graduates of the Environmental Earth Science program are in a wide range of workplaces including: environmental and geotechnical consultancies, local government (environmental officers), state government departments (Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources; Environment and Conservation), National Parks and Wildlife Service, Sydney Water, mining companies (environmental officers), teaching (primary and secondary) and research.

Environmental Earth Science is offered as a major within the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Environment.  It is also suitable as a component of other specialised programs, including Environmental Management, SIS, Climate Science, Ecology, and Geology.  Depending on your own goals you may decide to combine Environmental Earth Science units with other fields e.g. geology, atmospheric science, biology, Spatial Information Science (SIS).  

Second year is usually the time you will need to make a decision about your goals and your academic program.  Please feel free to discuss your program with any of the staff in the unit at any time during the semester.

You can also find more information about the Environmental Earth Science program and units of study at:

http://handbook.mq.edu.au/2019/Majors/UGMajor/Environmental+Earth+Science

FIELDWORK

Weather:We never cancel fieldtrips for bad weather!  You must be prepared to work in the rain with the appropriate clothing.  Likewise you should always protect yourself from the sun and dehydration.

Transport: You will need to arrange your own transport for these fieldtrips.  Ideally you should arrange to drive to each site with several other students from your practical class. There are usually a limited number of spaces available in staff vehicles.

Arrival:See the prac book for the arrival time for your fieldtrip.  For Seal Rocks there are two options (1) 8 am Friday morning, (2) midday Saturday.  For Macdonald River (the current plan) the start time is 8 am Saturday.

Cost:You must cover your own food and transport costs and pay for accommodation.  We book accommodation on behalf of the group and you must pay your money using the link to be provided on the iLearn page BEFORE THE TRIP.

Food:We will advise you of plans depending on which fieldtrip option you choose. You will need lunches to eat in the field and to provide your own breakfast.  Depending on which fieldtrip option you choose you may need to bring one dinner. There are no shops nearby.

Accommodation:Field accommodation is in bunk rooms with communal kitchens, dining, bathroom/toilet and work areas.  You should bring (apart from the gear listed below) a sleeping bag, pillow and towel.  

Departure:We aim to leave the field by 5pm on the Sunday afternoon, after all field equipment is returned and the accommodation cleaned.  You must sign off before returning home.

Personal Field Equipment:Each student should bring the following aids/comforts on each field trip:

·       sturdy shoes - no sandals, thongs, or high heels! (no visible skin below the ankles)

·       water bottle (at least 1 litre)

·       wet weather gear - we go whatever the weather!!!  Cheap plastic ponchos will not survive walking through scrub.

·       hat (with a wide brim, front and back) and sunscreen

·       field note book and pencils (see note below)

·       calculator, hand lens, small pocket knife

·       camera

·       your lunch, drinks & snacks for the day - we do not stop at shops!!!

·       a back pack to store it all in

FIELD EQUIPMENT YOU SHOULD PURCHASE

• Field notebook

·       Hand lens

Each student MUST purchase a small hardcover notebook for use in the field.  It should be bound down the spine on the left side, or across the top (but NOT spiral bound). The notebook does not necessarily have to be used only for this unit (you may have used it on previous trips) but it should be good quality and able to withstand a week in the field – in what may be wet conditions. The best, and most expensive, option is a waterproof Rite-in-the-Rain, Markrite or Chartwell notebook. There are several versions but the best options are 1. Geological (Rite in the Rain 540F), with columns, lines and grids (good for sketching and data), included classifications; 2. Small Rite in the Rain notebook (200T) which can be inserted in a hard cover (200C).  The first will last you several fieldtrips (and units), the second will probably last you this Unit. 

These items can be bought online, for example, Prospectors Supplies.  They can be used in many ENVS, BIOL and GEOS units.

SAFETY IN THE FIELD AND LABORATORY

Any student who has a disability that may limit their participation in field work or that could result in a medical emergency in the field should notify the unit convenor immediately.  As a general guide to the level of physical fitness required, you should be able to walk 10 km over open undulating terrain in 3 hours.

Each student must ensure his/her own safety at all times during field excursions.

• Do not undertake fieldwork alone.  You must work with at least one other person.
• You must be adequately equipped to undertake fieldwork, including wet weather clothing, warm clothing, hat and sun protection, protective footware (closed toe boots or shoes).
• You should bring a first aid kit if you have one (they will be provided to each group but do not include any drugs/creams etc).
• Do not undertake any activity you feel to be unsafe.  Discuss with the fieldtrip leader any concerns you have about particular tasks.
• Be watchful of the safety of your fellow students, if they become separated from the group or are at some other risk.  Tell the fieldtrip leader as soon as you notice a potentially dangerous situation.
• If you have any medical condition (including allergies) that require medication then you should bring medication with you.  We do not have and cannot provide any medication (including non-prescription).

Laboratory work in this unit does not involve hazardous chemicals.  Nevertheless, in the laboratory you must wear safe (closed) footwear and generally follow safe practice.  Where items of equipment are to be used, do not use them until you have received adequate training.

All students taking ENVS266 are eligible for the Geoff Humphreys Prize for proficiency in this unit.  The prize is for $300 (cash).

Geoff Humphreys was a lecturer in Physical Geography from 1994 to 2007 but had an association with Macquarie extending back to the early 1970s when he began his undergraduate degree here.  Geoff was an energetic and enthusiastic researcher and teacher in soil science and geomorphology.  His great passion was researching the processes of soil formation, especially the role of the biosphere in soil turnover and movement – bioturbation.  Geoff was very much at home in the field and greatly enjoyed teaching students in the bush where it is possible to see processes in action and also the landscape context of detailed measurements.

Geoff was instrumental in devising the curriculum of ENVS266 and taught in the unit for many years.  This prize, first awarded in 2007 following Geoff’s sudden death, is awarded to the student who shows the most proficiency in this unit which attempts to convey some of Geoff’s fascination with how landscapes work.