EARTHSYS 4:
Evolution and Extinction: Introduction to Historical Geology (GES 4)
Introduction to the basic tools and principles geologists and paleontologists use to reconstruct the history of the Earth. Principles of stratigraphy, correlation, the geological timescale, the history of biodiversity, and the interpretation of fossils. The use of data from sedimentary geology, geochemistry, and paleontology to test theories for critical events in Earth history such as mass extinctions. Two half-day field trips.
Terms: Win
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 5:
Ecology for Everyone (BIO 5)
Basics of ecology, from gut bacteria to global climate change. We will link processes at several scales to connect individual behavior, population growth, species interactions and ecosystem function. Combining classroom and field experience, we will see how basic hypothesis testing provides a way to learn about the world by considering the ecology of familiar organisms such as ants, squirrels, trees and some kinds of food. No prerequisites except arithmetic; open to everyone, including but not only those who may be headed for more advanced courses in ecology and environmental science.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 8:
The Oceans: An Introduction to the Marine Environment (EESS 8)
For non-majors and majors in earth science or environmental science. The major ocean ecosystems and how they function both naturally and under the influence of human activities. Emphasis is on the dominant organisms of each ecosystem and how they interact with each other and their physical and chemical environment. The types of ecosystems discussed include coral reefs, deep-sea hydrothermal vents, coastal upwelling systems, blue-water oceans, estuaries, and near-shore dead zones. Lectures, multimedia presentations, and group activities.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 10:
Introduction to Earth Systems
For non-majors and prospective Earth Systems majors. Multidisciplinary approach using the principles of geology, biology, engineering, and economics to describe how the Earth operates as an interconnected, integrated system. Goal is to understand global change on all time scales. Focus is on sciences, technological principles, and sociopolitical approaches applied to solid earth, oceans, water, energy, and food and population. Case studies: environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, and resource sustainability.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 12SC:
Environmental and Geological Field Studies in the Rocky Mountains (EESS 12SC, GES 12SC)
The ecologically and geologically diverse Rocky Mountain area is being strongly impacted by changing land use patterns, global and regional environmental change, and societal demands for energy and natural resources. This field program emphasizes coupled environmental and geological problems in the Rocky Mountains, covering a broad range of topics including the geologic origin of the American West from three billion years ago to the present; paleoclimatology and the glacial history of this mountainous region; the long- and short-term carbon cycle and global climate change; and environmental issues in the American West related to changing land-use patterns and increased demand for its abundant natural resources. These broad topics are integrated into a coherent field-study as we examine earth/ environmental science-related questions in three different settings: 1) the three-billion-year-old rocks and the modern glaciers of the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming; 2) the sediments in the adjacent Wind River basin that host abundant gas and oil reserves and also contain the long-term climate history of this region; and 3) the volcanic center of Yellowstone National Park and the mountainous region of Teton National Park, and the economic and environmental problems associated with gold mining and extraction of oil and gas in areas adjoining these national parks. Students will complete six assignments based upon field exercises, working in small groups to analyze data and prepare reports and maps. Lectures will be held in the field prior to and after fieldwork. Note: This course involves one week of backpacking in the Wind Rivers and hiking while staying in cabins near Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Students must arrive in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, September 3. (Hotel lodging will be provided for the night of September 3, and thereafter students will travel as a Sophomore College group.) We will return to campus on Saturday, September 21.
Terms: Sum
| Units: 2
EARTHSYS 16:
Conservation and Social Justice: Ocean Views from Social Landscapes
Directed reading course in preparation for Ocean Views from Social Landscapes trip that will be exploring conservation and social justice issues in the Monterey Bay area.
Terms: Win
| Units: 1
EARTHSYS 18:
Promoting Sustainability Behavior Change at Stanford
Stanford Green Living Council training course. Effective strategies for enacting sustainable behavior change on campus. Community-based social marketing, psychology, sociology, and design. Behavior change intervention project targeting a specific sustainable behavior. Lectures online.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 2
EARTHSYS 37N:
Climate Change: Science & Society (EESS 37N)
Preference to freshmen. How and why do greenhouse gases cause climate to change? How will a changing climate affect humans and natural ecosystems? What can we do to prevent climate change and better adapt to the climate change that does occur? This course will focusing on developing quantitative understanding of these issues rooted in both the physical and social sciences. Exercises will be based on simple quantitative observations and calculations; algebra only, no calculus.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 38N:
The Worst Journey in the World: The Science, Literature, and History of Polar Exploration (EESS 38N, GES 38N)
Preference to freshmen. The isolation of polar explorers under the harshest conditions on Earth, and the chronicles of their explorations and hardships dating to the 1500s for the Arctic and the 1700s for the Antarctic. Focus is on scientific and geographic achievements. Sources include The Worst Journey in the World by Apsley Cherry-Garrard who in 1911 participated in a midwinter Antarctic sledging trip to recover emperor penguin eggs. Class jointly authors essay on themes from such literature. Optional field trip into the high Sierra in December. (Dunbar)
Last offered: Winter 2011
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 41N:
The Global Warming Paradox (EESS 41N)
Preference to freshman. Focus is on the complex climate challenges posed by the substantial benefits of energy consumption, including the critical tension between the enormous global demand for increased human well-being and the negative climate consequences of large-scale emissions of carbon dioxide. Topics include: Earth¿s energy balance; detection and attribution of climate change; the climate response to enhanced greenhouse forcing; impacts of climate change on natural and human systems; and proposed methods for curbing further climate change. Sources include peer-reviewed scientific papers, current research results, and portrayal of scientific findings by the mass media and social networks.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 42:
The Global Warming Paradox II (EESS 42)
Further discussion of the complex climate challenges posed by the substantial benefits of energy consumption, including the critical tension between the enormous global demand for increased human well-being and the negative climate consequences of large-scale emissions of carbon dioxide. Discussions of topics of student interest, including peer-reviewed scientific papers, current research results, and portrayal of scientific findings by the mass media and social networks. Focus is on student engagement in on-campus and off-campus activities. Prerequisite: EESS 41N or EARTHSYS 41N or consent of instructor.
Terms: Win
| Units: 1
EARTHSYS 46N:
Exploring the Critical Interface between the Land and Monterey Bay: Elkhorn Slough (EESS 46N)
Preference to freshmen. Field trips to sites in the Elkhorn Slough, a small agriculturally impacted estuary that opens into Monterey Bay, a model ecosystem for understanding the complexity of estuaries, and one of California's last remaining coastal wetlands. Readings include Jane Caffrey's Changes in a California Estuary: A Profile of Elkhorn Slough. Basics of biogeochemistry, microbiology, oceanography, ecology, pollution, and environmental management.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 57Q:
Climate Change from the Past to the Future (EESS 57Q)
Preference to sophomores. Numeric models to predict how climate responds to increase of greenhouse gases. Paleoclimate during times in Earth's history when greenhouse gas concentrations were elevated with respect to current concentrations. Predicted scenarios of climate models and how these models compare to known hyperthermal events in Earth history. Interactions and feedbacks among biosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. Topics include long- and short-term carbon cycle, coupled biogeochemical cycles affected by and controlling climate change, and how the biosphere responds to climate change. Possible remediation strategies.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 70:
How the Earth Works: Physics for Earth and Environmental Scientists
How do tsunamis form? What drives a hurricane? How are environmental pollutants transported? Introduction to the study of motion, forces, waves, and electromagnetism from the perspective of Earth and environmental scientists. Examination of the physics behind Earth processes that shape the environment we live in. Topics include groundwater flow, geothermal gradients, tidal and tsunami wave motion, seismic waves, earthquake propagation and hazard assessment, and the energy of photosynthesis. Lab/computer exercises incorporated into class time. Prerequisites: GES 1A, B or C or EARTHSYS 10 or GEOPHYS 113; and MATH 21 or 42; or instructor consent.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 100:
Environmental and Geological Field Studies in the Rocky Mountains (EESS 101, GES 101)
Three-week, field-based program in the Greater Yellowstone/Teton and Wind River Mountains of Wyoming. Field-based exercises covering topics including: basics of structural geology and petrology; glacial geology; western cordillera geology; paleoclimatology; chemical weathering; aqueous geochemistry; and environmental issues such as acid mine drainage and changing land-use patterns.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 101:
Energy and the Environment (ENERGY 101)
Energy use in modern society and the consequences of current and future energy use patterns. Case studies illustrate resource estimation, engineering analysis of energy systems, and options for managing carbon emissions. Focus is on energy definitions, use patterns, resource estimation, pollution. Recommended: MATH 21 or 42.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER:DB-EngrAppSci, WAY-AQR, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 102:
Renewable Energy Sources and Greener Energy Processes (ENERGY 102)
The energy sources that power society are rooted in fossil energy although energy from the core of the Earth and the sun is almost inexhaustible; but the rate at which energy can be drawn from them with today's technology is limited. The renewable energy resource base, its conversion to useful forms, and practical methods of energy storage. Geothermal, wind, solar, biomass, and tidal energies; resource extraction and its consequences. Recommended: MATH 21 or 42.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER:DB-EngrAppSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 103:
Energy Resources (CEE 173A, CEE 207A)
Comprehensive overview of fossil and renewable energy resources and energy efficiency. Topics covered for each resource: resource abundance, location, recovery, conversion, consumption, end-uses, environmental impacts, economics, policy, and technology. Applied lectures in specific energy sectors: buildings, transportation, the electricity industry, and energy in the developing world. Required field trips to local energy facilities. Optional discussion section for extra unit. CEE 173 is offered for 4-5 units; ES 103 is offered for 4-5 units; CEE 207A is offered for 3-5 units: instructor approval required for 3-unit option.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4-5
| UG Reqs: GER:DB-EngrAppSci, WAY-SI
EARTHSYS 104:
The Water Course (GEOPHYS 104)
The pathway that water takes from rainfall to the tap using student home towns as an example. How the geological environment controls the quantity and quality of water; taste tests of water from around the world. Current U.S. and world water supply issues. Offered occasionally.
Last offered: Spring 2010
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-AQR, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 105:
Food and Community: New Visions for a Sustainable Future (EESS 105)
Service and research focused on providing healthy and environmentally friendly food for the under served in our community. Hands-on collaboration with the Stanford Glean student group, the Stanford Community Garden, and San Francisco nonprofits. Coverage of the broad spectrum from garden development to food dispersal to the needy. Design and implementation of projects that address an aspect of food and social justice, such as urban farming in low-income communities and sustainable food networks for the elderly. Service Learning Course (certified by Haas Center). Limited enrollment. May be repeated for credit.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3-5
| Repeatable
for credit
EARTHSYS 105A:
Ecology and Natural History of Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve (BIO 105A)
Formerly 96A - Jasper Ridge Docent Training. First of two-quarter sequence training program to join the Jasper Ridge education/docent program. The scientific basis of ecological research in the context of a field station, hands-on field research, field ecology and the natural history of plants and animals, species interactions, archaeology, geology, hydrology, land management, multidisciplinary environmental education; and research projects, as well as management challenges of the preserve presented by faculty, local experts, and staff. Participants lead research-focused educational tours, assist with classes and research, and attend continuing education classes available to members of the JRBP community after the course.
Terms: Win
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 105B:
Ecology and Natural History of Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve (BIO 105B)
Formerly 96B - Jasper Ridge Docent Training. First of two-quarter sequence training program to join the Jasper Ridge education/docent program. The scientific basis of ecological research in the context of a field station, hands-on field research, field ecology and the natural history of plants and animals, species interactions, archaeology, geology, hydrology, land management, multidisciplinary environmental education; and research projects, as well as management challenges of the preserve presented by faculty, local experts, and staff. Participants lead research-focused educational tours, assist with classes and research, and attend continuing education classes available to members of the JRBP community after the course.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 106:
World Food Economy (ECON 106, EESS 106)
The interrelationships among food, populations, resources, and economic development. The role of agricultural and rural development in achieving economic and social progress in low-income nations. Emphasis is on public sector decision making as it relates to food policy.
Terms: Win
| Units: 5
| UG Reqs: WAY-SI
EARTHSYS 111:
Biology and Global Change (BIO 117, EESS 111)
The biological causes and consequences of anthropogenic and natural changes in the atmosphere, oceans, and terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. Topics: glacial cycles and marine circulation, greenhouse gases and climate change, tropical deforestation and species extinctions, and human population growth and resource use. Prerequisite: Biology or Human Biology core or graduate standing.
Terms: Win
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 112:
Human Society and Environmental Change (EESS 112, HISTORY 103D)
Interdisciplinary approaches to understanding human-environment interactions with a focus on economics, policy, culture, history, and the role of the state. Prerequisite: ECON 1A
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: WAY-SI
EARTHSYS 113:
Earthquakes and Volcanoes (GEOPHYS 113)
Earthquake location, magnitude and intensity scales, seismic waves, styles of eruptions and volcanic hazards, tsunami waves, types and global distribution of volcanoes, volcano forecasting. Plate tectonics as a framework for understanding earthquake and volcanic processes. Forecasting; earthquake resistant design; building codes; and probabilistic hazard assessment. For non-majors and potential earth scientists. Offered every year, spring quarter.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER:DB-EngrAppSci, WAY-AQR, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 116:
Ecology of the Hawaiian Islands (BIO 116)
Terrestrial and marine ecology and conservation biology of the Hawaiian Archipelago. Taught in the field in Hawaii as part of quarter-long sequence of courses including Earth Sciences and Anthropology. Topics include ecological succession, plant-soil interactions, conservation biology, biological invasions and ecosystem consequences, and coral reef ecology. Restricted to students accepted into the Earth Systems of Hawaii Program.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 117:
Earth Sciences of the Hawaiian Islands (EARTHSCI 117, EESS 117)
Progression from volcanic processes through rock weathering and soil-ecosystem development to landscape evolution. The course starts with an investigation of volcanic processes, including the volcano structure, origin of magmas, physical-chemical factors of eruptions. Factors controlling rock weathering and soil development, including depth and nutrient levels impacting plant ecosystems, are explored next. Geomorphic processes of landscape evolution including erosion rates, tectonic/volcanic activity, and hillslope stability conclude the course. Methods for monitoring and predicting eruptions, defining spatial changes in landform, landform stability, soil production rates, and measuring biogeochemical processes are covered throughout the course. This course is restricted to students accepted into the Earth Systems of Hawaii Program.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 118:
Heritage, Environment, and Sovereignty in Hawaii (ANTHRO 118)
This course explores the cultural, political economic, and environmental status of contemporary Hawaiians. What sorts of sustainable economic and environmental systems did Hawaiians use in prehistory? How was colonization of the Hawaiian Islands informed and shaped by American economic interests and the nascent imperialsm of the early 20th centrury? How was sovereignty and Native Hawaiian identity been shaped by these forces? How has tourism and the leisure industry affected the natural environment? This course uses archaeological methods, ethnohistorical sources, and historical analysis in an exploration of contemporary Hawaiian social economic and political life.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: WAY-EDP
EARTHSYS 11SI:
Grow It, Cook It, Eat It: Personal Empowerment in Interdisciplinary Food Systems
Interdisciplinary examination of sustainable food systems and decision-making at personal, local, and global scales. Discussions focusing on food systems from farm to fork. Hands-on experience farming at the Stanford Educational Farm and cooking in the Stanford Demonstration Kitchen. Guest lecturers from the local food justice movement. Students will become empowered to make informed decisions regarding food choices.
| Units: 2
EARTHSYS 122:
Paleobiology (GES 123)
Introduction to the fossil record with emphasis on marine invertebrates. Major debates in paleontological research. The history of animal life in the oceans. Topics include the nature of the fossil record, evolutionary radiations, mass extinctions, and the relationship between biological evolution and environmental change. Fossil taxa through time. Exercises in phylogenetics, paleoecology, biostratigraphy, and statistical methods.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 13SC:
People, Land, and Water in the Heart of the West (CEE 11SC, HISTORY 23SC)
Salmon River. Sun Valley. Pioneer Mountains. The names speak of powerful forces and ideas in the American West. Central Idaho - a landscape embracing snow-capped mountains, raging rivers, sagebrush deserts, farms, ranches, and resort communities - is our classroom for this field-based seminar led by David Freyberg, professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and David Kennedy, professor emeritus of History. nnThis course focuses on the history and future of a broad range of natural resource management issues in the western United States. We will spend a week on campus preparing for a two-week field course in Idaho exploring working landscapes, private and public lands, water and fisheries, conservation, and the history and literature of the relationship between people and the land in the American West. After the first week spent on campus, we will drive to Idaho to begin the field portion of our seminar. In Idaho, we will spend time near Twin Falls, at Lava Lake Ranch near Craters of the Moon National Monument, in Custer County at the Upper Salmon River, and near Stanley in the Sawtooth National Forest. No prior camping experience is required, but students should be comfortable living outdoors in mobile base camps for periods of several days. Students will investigate specific issues in-depth and present their findings at the end of the course.
| Units: 2
EARTHSYS 141:
Remote Sensing of the Oceans (EARTHSYS 241, EESS 141, EESS 241)
How to observe and interpret physical and biological changes in the oceans using satellite technologies. Topics: principles of satellite remote sensing, classes of satellite remote sensors, converting radiometric data into biological and physical quantities, sensor calibration and validation, interpreting large-scale oceanographic features.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3-4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-AQR
EARTHSYS 142:
Remote Sensing of Land (EARTHSYS 242, EESS 162, EESS 262)
The use of satellite remote sensing to monitor land use and land cover, with emphasis on terrestrial changes. Topics include pre-processing data, biophysical properties of vegetation observable by satellite, accuracy assessment of maps derived from remote sensing, and methodologies to detect changes such as urbanization, deforestation, vegetation health, and wildfires.
Terms: Win
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 144:
Fundamentals of Geographic Information Science (GIS) (EESS 164)
Survey of geographic information including maps, satellite imagery, and census data, approaches to spatial data, and tools for integrating and examining spatially-explicit data. Emphasis is on fundamental concepts of geographic information science and associated technologies. Topics include geographic data structure, cartography, remotely sensed data, statistical analysis of geographic data, spatial analysis, map design, and geographic information system software. Computer lab assignments.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 145:
Environmental Crises and Historical Change
The history of North America has contained a series of environmental crises brought about by human actions. This course examines the so-called Columbian Exchange that led to the depopulation of the Western Hemisphere; the long crisis on the Great Plains including the near extermination of bison and the Dust Bowl, and the current crisis of global warming. The goal is to understand not only how human actions have transformed the North American environment, but also how the crises these changes provoke have influenced human society. Too often a sophisticated analysis of environmental change has been placed alongside a crude analysis of social change.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 4-5
| UG Reqs: GER:DB-SocSci
EARTHSYS 146A:
Atmosphere, Ocean, and Climate Dynamics: The Atmospheric Circulation (EARTHSYS 246A, EESS 146A, EESS 246A, GEOPHYS 146A, GEOPHYS 246A)
Introduction to the physics governing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and their control on climate with emphasis on the atmospheric circulation. Topics include the global energy balance, the greenhouse effect, the vertical and meridional structure of the atmosphere, dry and moist convection, the equations of motion for the atmosphere and ocean, including the effects of rotation, and the poleward transport of heat by the large-scale atmospheric circulation and storm systems. Prerequisites: MATH 51 or CME100 and PHYSICS 41.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 147:
Controlling Climate Change in the 21st Century (BIO 147, BIO 247, EARTHSYS 247, HUMBIO 116)
Climate change is a global environmental, social, cultural and economic challenge. Responding to this challenge requires a paradigm shift which will alter energy production, transport, industry, politics, development strategies, north/south equity, and individual freedom and responsibilities around the world. Given the short term planning horizon of the majority of political, economic and social institutions, the slow burn of climate change presents major policy challenges. The course is designed to clarify the primary issues embedded in these challenges.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 14SI:
Human and Environmental Rights from Farm to Fork (EESS 11SI)
This course aims to understand the environmental and human rights implications of our modern globalized food system-from farm, to factory, to international commerce, and finally, to fork. Focus will be on the labor and environmental conditions of industrial agriculture, working conditions and environmental consequences of processing factories, the implications of international food commerce, the modern obesity crisis, and emerging solutions that aim to correct these problems.
| Units: 1
EARTHSYS 151:
Biological Oceanography (EARTHSYS 251, EESS 151, EESS 251)
Required for Earth Systems students in the oceans track. Interdisciplinary look at how oceanic environments control the form and function of marine life. Topics include distributions of planktonic production and abundance, nutrient cycling, the role of ocean biology in the climate system, expected effects of climate changes on ocean biology. Local weekend field trips. Designed to be taken concurrently with Marine Chemistry (EESS/EARTHSYS 152/252). Prerequisites: BIO 43 and EESS 8 or equivalent.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3-4
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 152:
Marine Chemistry (EARTHSYS 252, EESS 152, EESS 252)
Introduction to the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills required to critically evaluate problems in marine chemistry and related disciplines. Physical, chemical, and biological processes that determine the chemical composition of seawater. Air-sea gas exchange, carbonate chemistry, and chemical equilibria, nutrient and trace element cycling, particle reactivity, sediment chemistry, and diagenesis. Examination of chemical tracers of mixing and circulation and feedbacks of ocean processes on atmospheric chemistry and climate. Designed to be taken concurrently with Biological Oceanography (EESS/EARTHSYS 151/251)
Terms: Win
| Units: 3-4
EARTHSYS 155:
Science of Soils (EESS 155)
Physical, chemical, and biological processes within soil systems. Emphasis is on factors governing nutrient availability, plant growth and production, land-resource management, and pollution within soils. How to classify soils and assess nutrient cycling and contaminant fate. Recommended: introductory chemistry and biology.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3-4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 156:
Soil and Water Chemistry (EARTHSYS 256, EESS 156, EESS 256)
(Graduate students register for 256.) Practical and quantitative treatment of soil processes affecting chemical reactivity, transformation, retention, and bioavailability. Principles of primary areas of soil chemistry: inorganic and organic soil components, complex equilibria in soil solutions, and adsorption phenomena at the solid-water interface. Processes and remediation of acid, saline, and wetland soils. Recommended: soil science and introductory chemistry and microbiology.
Last offered: Winter 2012
| Units: 1-4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci, WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 156M:
Marine Resource Economics and Conservation (ECON 156, HUMBIO 111M)
Economic and ecological frameworks to understand the causes of and potential solutions to marine resource degradation. Focus on conservation of marine biodiversity and ecosystem-based management. Applications include: commercial and recreational fisheries, marine reserves, and offshore energy production.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 5
| UG Reqs: WAY-SI
EARTHSYS 158:
Geomicrobiology (EARTHSYS 258, EESS 158, EESS 258)
How microorganisms shape the geochemistry of the Earth's crust including oceans, lakes, estuaries, subsurface environments, sediments, soils, mineral deposits, and rocks. Topics include mineral formation and dissolution; biogeochemical cycling of elements (carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and metals); geochemical and mineralogical controls on microbial activity, diversity, and evolution; life in extreme environments; and the application of new techniques to geomicrobial systems. Recommended: introductory chemistry and microbiology such as CEE 274A.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 164:
Introduction to Physical Oceanography (CEE 164, CEE 262D, EESS 148)
The dynamic basis of oceanography. Topics: physical environment; conservation equations for salt, heat, and momentum; geostrophic flows; wind-driven flows; the Gulf Stream; equatorial dynamics and ENSO; thermohaline circulation of the deep oceans; and tides. Prerequisite: PHYSICS 41 (formerly 53).
Terms: Win
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 170:
Environmental Geochemistry (GES 170)
Solid, aqueous, and gaseous phases comprising the environment, their natural compositional variations, and chemical interactions. Contrast between natural sources of hazardous elements and compounds and types and sources of anthropogenic contaminants and pollutants. Chemical and physical processes of weathering and soil formation. Chemical factors that affect the stability of solids and aqueous species under earth surface conditions. The release, mobility, and fate of contaminants in natural waters and the roles that water and dissolved substances play in the physical behavior of rocks and soils. The impact of contaminants and design of remediation strategies. Case studies. Prerequisite: 90 or consent of instructor.
Terms: Win
| Units: 4
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 174:
Marine Biodiversity: Law, Science, and Policy (EARTHSYS 274)
Examination of the mechanisms that create marine biodiversity and the ways in which biodiversity and natural resources are linked. Introduction to the federal laws and policies that impact marine biodiversity and natural resources. Interactions between biological and political systems.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 175:
California Coast: Science, Policy, and Law (CEE 175A, CEE 275A, EARTHSYS 275)
Same as LAW 514. Interdisciplinary. The legal, science, and policy dimensions of managing California's coastal resources. Coastal land use and marine resource decision making. The physics, chemistry, and biology of the coastal zone, tools for exploring data from the coastal ocean, and the institutional framework that shapes public and private decision making. Field work: how experts from different disciplines work to resolve coastal policy questions. Primarily for graduate students; upper-level undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Students will be expected to participate in at least three mandatory field trips.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3-4
EARTHSYS 177C:
Specialized Writing and Reporting: Environmental Journalism (COMM 177C, COMM 277C, ENVRES 277C)
(Graduate students register for COMM / ENVRES 277C.) Practical, collaborative, writing-intensive course in science-based environmental journalism. Science and journalism students learn how to identify and write engaging stories about environmental issues and science, how to assess the quality and relevance of environmental news, how to cover the environment and science beats effectively, and how to build bridges between the worlds of journalism and science. Limited enrollment: preference to journalism students and students in the natural and environmental sciences. Prerequisite: COMM 104, ENVRES 200 or consent of instructor. Admissions by application only, available from thayden@stanford.edu and due 3/28/12.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 4-5
EARTHSYS 179S:
Seminar: Issues in Environmental Science, Technology and Sustainability (CEE 179S, CEE 279S, EESS 179S)
Invited faculty, researchers and professionals share their insights and perspectives on a broad range of environmental and sustainability issues. Students critique seminar presentations and associated readings.
Terms: Sum
| Units: 1-2
| Repeatable
2 times
(up to 4 units total)
EARTHSYS 180B:
Principles and Practices of Sustainable Agriculture (EESS 280B)
Field-based training in ecologically sound agricultural practices at the Stanford Community Farm. Weekly lessons, field work, and group projects. Field trips to educational farms in the area. Topics include: soils, composting, irrigation techniques, IPM, basic plant anatomy and physiology, weeds, greenhouse management, and marketing.
Terms: Aut, Spr
| Units: 3-4
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
| Repeatable
3 times
(up to 12 units total)
EARTHSYS 183:
Food Matters: Agriculture in Film (EARTHSYS 283, EESS 183, EESS 283)
Film series presenting historical and contemporary issues dealing with food and agriculture across the globe. Students discuss reactions and thoughts in a round table format. May be repeated for credit.
Terms: Win
| Units: 1
| Repeatable
for credit
EARTHSYS 184:
Climate and Agriculture (EARTHSYS 284, EESS 184, EESS 284)
The effects of climate change on global food and agricultural systems. Climate assessment and socioeconomic modeling approaches to quantify the impacts of climate on agro-ecosystems and society. Enrollment limited to 25; priority to graduate students, seniors, and juniors. Prerequisites: ECON 106/206.
Last offered: Spring 2012
| Units: 3-4
| UG Reqs: WAY-SMA
EARTHSYS 188:
Social and Environmental Tradeoffs in Climate Decision-Making (EARTHSYS 288)
How can we ensure that measures taken to mitigate global climate change don¿t create larger social and environmental problems? What metrics should be used to compare potential climate solutions beyond cost and technical feasibility, and how should these metrics be weighed against each other? How can modeling efforts and stakeholder engagement be best integrated into climate decision making? What information are we still missing to make fully informed decisions between technologies and policies? Exploration of these questions, alongside other issues related to potential negative externalities of emerging climate solutions. Evaluation of energy, land use, and geoengineering approaches in an integrated context, culminating in a climate stabilization group project.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 1-2
EARTHSYS 195:
Natural Hazards and Risk Communication
Introduction to the science behind natural hazards, the risks associated with these hazards, and effective methods of communicating them to a variety of audiences. Examination of methods of translation and communication. Investigation of the relative effectiveness of these methods for increasing preparedness and resiliency to natural hazards. Satisfies the Earth Systems WIM requirement.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: WAY-CE
EARTHSYS 197:
Directed Individual Study in Earth Systems
Under supervision of an Earth Systems faculty member on a subject of mutual interest.
Terms: Spr, Sum
| Units: 1-9
| Repeatable
for credit
EARTHSYS 199:
Honors Program in Earth Systems
Honors Program in Earth Systems
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr, Sum
| Units: 1-9
| Repeatable
for credit
Instructors: ;
Ardoin, N. (PI);
Arrigo, K. (PI);
Asner, G. (PI);
Block, B. (PI);
Boggs, C. (PI);
Boucher, A. (PI);
Caldwell, M. (PI);
Casciotti, K. (PI);
Chamberlain, P. (PI);
Daily, G. (PI);
Davis, J. (PI);
Denny, M. (PI);
Diffenbaugh, N. (PI);
Dirzo, R. (PI);
Dunbar, R. (PI);
Dunn, D. (PI);
Durham, W. (PI);
Egger, A. (PI);
Ernst, W. (PI);
Falcon, W. (PI);
Fendorf, S. (PI);
Field, C. (PI);
Francis, C. (PI);
Frank, Z. (PI);
Freyberg, D. (PI);
Fukami, T. (PI);
Gerritsen, M. (PI);
Gilly, W. (PI);
Gordon, D. (PI);
Gorelick, S. (PI);
Goulder, L. (PI);
Hadly, E. (PI);
Hayden, T. (PI);
Hecker, S. (PI);
Hilley, G. (PI);
Ingle, J. (PI);
Kennedy, D. (PI);
Kennedy, J. (PI);
Knight, R. (PI);
Koseff, J. (PI);
Kovscek, A. (PI);
Lambin, E. (PI);
Litvak, L. (PI);
Lobell, D. (PI);
Long, S. (PI);
Masters, G. (PI);
Matson, P. (PI);
Micheli, F. (PI);
Monismith, S. (PI);
Mooney, H. (PI);
Naylor, R. (PI);
Orr, F. (PI);
Palumbi, S. (PI);
Payne, J. (PI);
Rajaratnam, B. (PI);
Schneider, S. (PI);
Schoolnik, G. (PI);
Seto, K. (PI);
Somero, G. (PI);
Sweeney, J. (PI);
Switzer, P. (PI);
Tabazadeh, A. (PI);
Thomas, L. (PI);
Thompson, B. (PI);
Victor, D. (PI);
Vitousek, P. (PI);
Walbot, V. (PI);
Watanabe, J. (PI);
Weyant, J. (PI);
Wiederkehr, S. (PI);
Woodward, J. (PI);
Zoback, M. (PI)
EARTHSYS 200:
Sustaining Action: Research, Analysis and Writing for the Public (ENVRES 200)
Preference to graduate students and senior undergraduates in environmental, natural and social sciences, engineering, journalism. Students help produce and publish SAGE, an eco advice column, by choosing, researching, and answering questions about sustainable living submitted by Stanford alumni and the general public. Prerequisite: admission by application, available from instructor, thayden@stanford.edu, and due 9/21/11 (Aut) or 3/28/12 (Spr). (Meets Earth Systems WIM requirement).
Terms: Aut, Spr
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: WAY-CE
EARTHSYS 210A:
Senior Seminar
Interdisciplinary problem analysis and oral communication. Students present results of their Earth Systems internship or research project. Students participate in a research or service learning group project focused on a local environmental issue. Service Learning Course (certified by Haas Center). Prerequisite: EARTHSYS 260.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 210B:
Senior Seminar
Interdisciplinary problem analysis and oral communication. Students present results of their Earth Systems internship or research project. Students participate in a research or service learning group project focused on a local environmental issue. Service Learning Course (certified by Haas Center). Prerequisite: EARTHSYS 260.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 210C:
Senior Seminar
Interdisciplinary problem analysis and oral communication. Students present results of their Earth Systems internship or research project. Students participate in a research or service learning group project focused on a local environmental issue. Service Learning Course (certified by Haas Center). Prerequisite: EARTHSYS 260.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 211:
Fundamentals of Modeling (EESS 211)
Simulation models are a powerful tool for environmental research, if used properly. The major concepts and techniques for building and evaluating models. Topics include model calibration, model selection, uncertainty and sensitivity analysis, and Monte Carlo and bootstrap methods. Emphasis is on gaining hands-on experience using the R programming language. Prerequisite: asic knowledge of nnstatistics.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3-5
EARTHSYS 241:
Remote Sensing of the Oceans (EARTHSYS 141, EESS 141, EESS 241)
How to observe and interpret physical and biological changes in the oceans using satellite technologies. Topics: principles of satellite remote sensing, classes of satellite remote sensors, converting radiometric data into biological and physical quantities, sensor calibration and validation, interpreting large-scale oceanographic features.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3-4
EARTHSYS 242:
Remote Sensing of Land (EARTHSYS 142, EESS 162, EESS 262)
The use of satellite remote sensing to monitor land use and land cover, with emphasis on terrestrial changes. Topics include pre-processing data, biophysical properties of vegetation observable by satellite, accuracy assessment of maps derived from remote sensing, and methodologies to detect changes such as urbanization, deforestation, vegetation health, and wildfires.
Terms: Win
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 246A:
Atmosphere, Ocean, and Climate Dynamics: The Atmospheric Circulation (EARTHSYS 146A, EESS 146A, EESS 246A, GEOPHYS 146A, GEOPHYS 246A)
Introduction to the physics governing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and their control on climate with emphasis on the atmospheric circulation. Topics include the global energy balance, the greenhouse effect, the vertical and meridional structure of the atmosphere, dry and moist convection, the equations of motion for the atmosphere and ocean, including the effects of rotation, and the poleward transport of heat by the large-scale atmospheric circulation and storm systems. Prerequisites: MATH 51 or CME100 and PHYSICS 41.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 247:
Controlling Climate Change in the 21st Century (BIO 147, BIO 247, EARTHSYS 147, HUMBIO 116)
Climate change is a global environmental, social, cultural and economic challenge. Responding to this challenge requires a paradigm shift which will alter energy production, transport, industry, politics, development strategies, north/south equity, and individual freedom and responsibilities around the world. Given the short term planning horizon of the majority of political, economic and social institutions, the slow burn of climate change presents major policy challenges. The course is designed to clarify the primary issues embedded in these challenges.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 250:
Directed Research
Independent research related to student's primary track, carried out after the junior year, during the summer, and/or during the senior year. Student develops own project with faculty supervision. 10-15 page thesis. May be repeated for credit.
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr, Sum
| Units: 1-9
| Repeatable
for credit
Instructors: ;
Ardoin, N. (PI);
Arrigo, K. (PI);
Asner, G. (PI);
Block, B. (PI);
Boggs, C. (PI);
Boucher, A. (PI);
Caldwell, M. (PI);
Casciotti, K. (PI);
Chamberlain, P. (PI);
Curran, L. (PI);
Daily, G. (PI);
Davis, J. (PI);
Denny, M. (PI);
Diffenbaugh, N. (PI);
Dirzo, R. (PI);
Dunbar, R. (PI);
Durham, W. (PI);
Egger, A. (PI);
Ernst, W. (PI);
Falcon, W. (PI);
Fendorf, S. (PI);
Field, C. (PI);
Francis, C. (PI);
Frank, Z. (PI);
Freyberg, D. (PI);
Gardner, C. (PI);
Gerritsen, M. (PI);
Gilly, W. (PI);
Gordon, D. (PI);
Gorelick, S. (PI);
Goulder, L. (PI);
Hadly, E. (PI);
Hayden, T. (PI);
Hilley, G. (PI);
Ingle, J. (PI);
Jamieson, A. (PI);
Kennedy, D. (PI);
Kennedy, J. (PI);
Knight, R. (PI);
Koseff, J. (PI);
Kovscek, A. (PI);
Lambin, E. (PI);
Litvak, L. (PI);
Lobell, D. (PI);
Long, S. (PI);
Lynham, J. (PI);
Masters, G. (PI);
Matson, P. (PI);
Micheli, F. (PI);
Milroy, J. (PI);
Monismith, S. (PI);
Mooney, H. (PI);
Naylor, R. (PI);
Orr, F. (PI);
Palumbi, S. (PI);
Payne, J. (PI);
Peay, K. (PI);
Rajaratnam, B. (PI);
Root, T. (PI);
Schipper, L. (PI);
Schneider, S. (PI);
Schoolnik, G. (PI);
Seto, K. (PI);
Somero, G. (PI);
Sweeney, J. (PI);
Switzer, P. (PI);
Tabazadeh, A. (PI);
Thomas, L. (PI);
Thompson, B. (PI);
Victor, D. (PI);
Vitousek, P. (PI);
Walbot, V. (PI);
Watanabe, J. (PI);
Weyant, J. (PI);
Wiederkehr, S. (PI);
Woodward, J. (PI);
Zoback, M. (PI)
EARTHSYS 251:
Biological Oceanography (EARTHSYS 151, EESS 151, EESS 251)
Required for Earth Systems students in the oceans track. Interdisciplinary look at how oceanic environments control the form and function of marine life. Topics include distributions of planktonic production and abundance, nutrient cycling, the role of ocean biology in the climate system, expected effects of climate changes on ocean biology. Local weekend field trips. Designed to be taken concurrently with Marine Chemistry (EESS/EARTHSYS 152/252). Prerequisites: BIO 43 and EESS 8 or equivalent.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3-4
EARTHSYS 252:
Marine Chemistry (EARTHSYS 152, EESS 152, EESS 252)
Introduction to the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills required to critically evaluate problems in marine chemistry and related disciplines. Physical, chemical, and biological processes that determine the chemical composition of seawater. Air-sea gas exchange, carbonate chemistry, and chemical equilibria, nutrient and trace element cycling, particle reactivity, sediment chemistry, and diagenesis. Examination of chemical tracers of mixing and circulation and feedbacks of ocean processes on atmospheric chemistry and climate. Designed to be taken concurrently with Biological Oceanography (EESS/EARTHSYS 151/251)
Terms: Win
| Units: 3-4
EARTHSYS 256:
Soil and Water Chemistry (EARTHSYS 156, EESS 156, EESS 256)
(Graduate students register for 256.) Practical and quantitative treatment of soil processes affecting chemical reactivity, transformation, retention, and bioavailability. Principles of primary areas of soil chemistry: inorganic and organic soil components, complex equilibria in soil solutions, and adsorption phenomena at the solid-water interface. Processes and remediation of acid, saline, and wetland soils. Recommended: soil science and introductory chemistry and microbiology.
Last offered: Winter 2012
| Units: 1-4
EARTHSYS 258:
Geomicrobiology (EARTHSYS 158, EESS 158, EESS 258)
How microorganisms shape the geochemistry of the Earth's crust including oceans, lakes, estuaries, subsurface environments, sediments, soils, mineral deposits, and rocks. Topics include mineral formation and dissolution; biogeochemical cycling of elements (carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and metals); geochemical and mineralogical controls on microbial activity, diversity, and evolution; life in extreme environments; and the application of new techniques to geomicrobial systems. Recommended: introductory chemistry and microbiology such as CEE 274A.
Terms: Win
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 260:
Internship
Supervised field, lab, or private sector project. May consist of directed research under the supervision of a Stanford faculty member, participation in one of several off campus Stanford programs, or an approved non-Stanford program relevant to the student's Earth Systems studies. Required of and restricted to declared Earth Systems majors. Includes 15-page technical summary research paper that is subject to iterative revision. (WIM)
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr, Sum
| Units: 1-9
| Repeatable
for credit
Instructors: ;
Arrigo, K. (PI);
Asner, G. (PI);
Boggs, C. (PI);
Caldwell, M. (PI);
Daily, G. (PI);
Denny, M. (PI);
Dunbar, R. (PI);
Durham, W. (PI);
Ernst, W. (PI);
Falcon, W. (PI);
Fendorf, S. (PI);
Field, C. (PI);
Freyberg, D. (PI);
Gerritsen, M. (PI);
Gordon, D. (PI);
Goulder, L. (PI);
Hadly, E. (PI);
Ingle, J. (PI);
Kennedy, D. (PI);
Kennedy, J. (PI);
Knight, R. (PI);
Koseff, J. (PI);
Kovscek, A. (PI);
Masters, G. (PI);
Matson, P. (PI);
Monismith, S. (PI);
Mooney, H. (PI);
Naylor, R. (PI);
Orr, F. (PI);
Schneider, S. (PI);
Seto, K. (PI);
Somero, G. (PI);
Sweeney, J. (PI);
Tabazadeh, A. (PI);
Thompson, B. (PI);
Victor, D. (PI);
Vitousek, P. (PI);
Walbot, V. (PI);
Watanabe, J. (PI);
Woodward, J. (PI);
Zoback, M. (PI)
EARTHSYS 274:
Marine Biodiversity: Law, Science, and Policy (EARTHSYS 174)
Examination of the mechanisms that create marine biodiversity and the ways in which biodiversity and natural resources are linked. Introduction to the federal laws and policies that impact marine biodiversity and natural resources. Interactions between biological and political systems.
Terms: Aut
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 275:
California Coast: Science, Policy, and Law (CEE 175A, CEE 275A, EARTHSYS 175)
Same as LAW 514. Interdisciplinary. The legal, science, and policy dimensions of managing California's coastal resources. Coastal land use and marine resource decision making. The physics, chemistry, and biology of the coastal zone, tools for exploring data from the coastal ocean, and the institutional framework that shapes public and private decision making. Field work: how experts from different disciplines work to resolve coastal policy questions. Primarily for graduate students; upper-level undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Students will be expected to participate in at least three mandatory field trips.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3-4
EARTHSYS 283:
Food Matters: Agriculture in Film (EARTHSYS 183, EESS 183, EESS 283)
Film series presenting historical and contemporary issues dealing with food and agriculture across the globe. Students discuss reactions and thoughts in a round table format. May be repeated for credit.
Terms: Win
| Units: 1
| Repeatable
for credit
EARTHSYS 284:
Climate and Agriculture (EARTHSYS 184, EESS 184, EESS 284)
The effects of climate change on global food and agricultural systems. Climate assessment and socioeconomic modeling approaches to quantify the impacts of climate on agro-ecosystems and society. Enrollment limited to 25; priority to graduate students, seniors, and juniors. Prerequisites: ECON 106/206.
Last offered: Spring 2012
| Units: 3-4
EARTHSYS 288:
Social and Environmental Tradeoffs in Climate Decision-Making (EARTHSYS 188)
How can we ensure that measures taken to mitigate global climate change don¿t create larger social and environmental problems? What metrics should be used to compare potential climate solutions beyond cost and technical feasibility, and how should these metrics be weighed against each other? How can modeling efforts and stakeholder engagement be best integrated into climate decision making? What information are we still missing to make fully informed decisions between technologies and policies? Exploration of these questions, alongside other issues related to potential negative externalities of emerging climate solutions. Evaluation of energy, land use, and geoengineering approaches in an integrated context, culminating in a climate stabilization group project.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 1-2
EARTHSYS 290:
Master's Seminar
Required of and open only to Earth Systems master's students. Reflection on the Earth Systems coterm experience and development of skills to clearly articulate interdisciplinary expertise to potential employers, graduate or professional schools, colleagues, business partners, etc. Hands-on projects to take students through a series of guided reflection activities. Individual and small group exercises. Required, self-chosen final project encapsulates each student's MS expertise in a form relevant to his or her future goals (ie. a personal statement, research poster, portfolio, etc.).
Terms: Aut
| Units: 2
EARTHSYS 297:
Directed Individual Study in Earth Systems
Under supervision of an Earth Systems faculty member on a subject of mutual interest.
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr, Sum
| Units: 1-9
| Repeatable
for credit
Instructors: ;
Archie, P. (PI);
Ardoin, N. (PI);
Arrigo, K. (PI);
Arrillaga, L. (PI);
Asner, G. (PI);
Banerjee, B. (PI);
Block, B. (PI);
Boggs, C. (PI);
Boucher, A. (PI);
Caldwell, M. (PI);
Carbajales, P. (PI);
Casciotti, K. (PI);
Chamberlain, P. (PI);
Curran, L. (PI);
Daily, G. (PI);
Davis, J. (PI);
Denny, M. (PI);
Diffenbaugh, N. (PI);
Dirzo, R. (PI);
Dunbar, R. (PI);
Durham, W. (PI);
Egger, A. (PI);
Ernst, W. (PI);
Falcon, W. (PI);
Fendorf, S. (PI);
Field, C. (PI);
Francis, C. (PI);
Frank, Z. (PI);
Freyberg, D. (PI);
Gardner, C. (PI);
Gerritsen, M. (PI);
Gilly, W. (PI);
Gordon, D. (PI);
Gorelick, S. (PI);
Goulder, L. (PI);
Hadly, E. (PI);
Hayden, T. (PI);
Hecker, S. (PI);
Hilley, G. (PI);
Ingle, J. (PI);
Jacobson, M. (PI);
Jamieson, A. (PI);
Kennedy, D. (PI);
Kennedy, J. (PI);
Knight, R. (PI);
Koseff, J. (PI);
Kovscek, A. (PI);
Lambin, E. (PI);
Lawrence, K. (PI);
Litvak, L. (PI);
Lobell, D. (PI);
Long, S. (PI);
Lynham, J. (PI);
Masters, G. (PI);
Matson, P. (PI);
Micheli, F. (PI);
Monismith, S. (PI);
Mooney, H. (PI);
Mormann, F. (PI);
Naylor, R. (PI);
Orr, F. (PI);
Ortolano, L. (PI);
Palumbi, S. (PI);
Payne, J. (PI);
Phillips, K. (PI);
Rajaratnam, B. (PI);
Root, T. (PI);
Saltzman, J. (PI);
Schipper, L. (PI);
Schneider, S. (PI);
Schoolnik, G. (PI);
Seto, K. (PI);
Simon, G. (PI);
Somero, G. (PI);
Sweeney, J. (PI);
Switzer, P. (PI);
Tabazadeh, A. (PI);
Thomas, L. (PI);
Thompson, B. (PI);
Victor, D. (PI);
Vitousek, P. (PI);
Walbot, V. (PI);
Watanabe, J. (PI);
Weyant, J. (PI);
Wiederkehr, S. (PI);
Wight, G. (PI);
Wolak, F. (PI);
Woodward, J. (PI);
Zoback, M. (PI);
Balasubramanian, J. (GP)
EARTHSYS 299:
M.S. Thesis
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr, Sum
| Units: 1-9
| Repeatable
for credit
Instructors: ;
Ardoin, N. (PI);
Arrigo, K. (PI);
Asner, G. (PI);
Block, B. (PI);
Boggs, C. (PI);
Boucher, A. (PI);
Caldwell, M. (PI);
Casciotti, K. (PI);
Chamberlain, P. (PI);
Daily, G. (PI);
Davis, J. (PI);
Denny, M. (PI);
Diffenbaugh, N. (PI);
Dirzo, R. (PI);
Dunbar, R. (PI);
Durham, W. (PI);
Egger, A. (PI);
Ernst, W. (PI);
Falcon, W. (PI);
Fendorf, S. (PI);
Field, C. (PI);
Francis, C. (PI);
Frank, Z. (PI);
Freyberg, D. (PI);
Gerritsen, M. (PI);
Gilly, W. (PI);
Gordon, D. (PI);
Gorelick, S. (PI);
Goulder, L. (PI);
Hadly, E. (PI);
Hayden, T. (PI);
Hecker, S. (PI);
Hilley, G. (PI);
Ingle, J. (PI);
Kennedy, D. (PI);
Kennedy, J. (PI);
Knight, R. (PI);
Koseff, J. (PI);
Kovscek, A. (PI);
Lambin, E. (PI);
Litvak, L. (PI);
Lobell, D. (PI);
Long, S. (PI);
Masters, G. (PI);
Matson, P. (PI);
Monismith, S. (PI);
Mooney, H. (PI);
Naylor, R. (PI);
Orr, F. (PI);
Ortolano, L. (PI);
Palumbi, S. (PI);
Payne, J. (PI);
Rajaratnam, B. (PI);
Root, T. (PI);
Schneider, S. (PI);
Schoolnik, G. (PI);
Seto, K. (PI);
Somero, G. (PI);
Sweeney, J. (PI);
Switzer, P. (PI);
Tabazadeh, A. (PI);
Thomas, L. (PI);
Thompson, B. (PI);
Victor, D. (PI);
Vitousek, P. (PI);
Walbot, V. (PI);
Watanabe, J. (PI);
Weyant, J. (PI);
Wiederkehr, S. (PI);
Woodward, J. (PI);
Zoback, M. (PI)
EARTHSYS 323:
Stanford at Sea (BIOHOPK 182H, BIOHOPK 323H, EESS 323)
(Graduate students register for 323H.) Five weeks of marine science including oceanography, marine physiology, policy, maritime studies, conservation, and nautical science at Hopkins Marine Station, followed by five weeks at sea aboard a sailing research vessel in the Pacific Ocean. Shore component comprised of three multidisciplinary courses meeting daily and continuing aboard ship. Students develop an independent research project plan while ashore, and carry out the research at sea. In collaboration with the Sea Education Association of Woods Hole, MA. Only 6 units may count towards the Biology major.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 16
EARTHSYS 39N:
The Carbon Cycle: Reducing Your Impact
Preference to freshmen. Changes in the long- and short-term carbon cycle and global climate through the burning of fossil fuels since the Industrial Revolution. How people can shrink their carbon footprints. Long-term sources and sinks of carbon and how they are controlled by tectonics and short-term sources and sinks and the interaction between the biosphere and ocean. How people can shrink their carbon footprints. Held at the Stanford Community Farm.
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 49N:
Multi-Disciplinary Perspectives on a Large Urban Estuary: San Francisco Bay (EESS 49N)
This course will be focused around San Francisco Bay, the largest estuary on the Pacific coasts of both North and South America as a model ecosystem for understanding the critical importance and complexity of estuaries. Despite its uniquely urban and industrial character, the Bay is of immense ecological value and encompasses over 90% of California's remaining coastal wetlands. Students will be exposed to the basics of estuarine biogeochemistry, microbiology, ecology, hydrodynamics, pollution, and ecosystem management/restoration issues through lectures, interactive discussions, and field trips. Knowledge of introductory biology and chemistry is recommended.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 56Q:
Changes in the Coastal Ocean: The View From Monterey and San Francisco Bays (EESS 56Q)
Preference to sophomores. Recent changes in the California current, using Monterey Bay as an example. Current literature introduces principles of oceanography. Visits from researchers from MBARI, Hopkins, and UCSC. Optional field trip to MBARI and Monterey Bay.
| Units: 3
| UG Reqs: GER: DB-NatSci
EARTHSYS 61Q:
Food and security (EESS 61Q, INTNLREL 61Q)
The course will provide a broad overview of key policy issues concerning agricultural development and food security, and will assess how global governance is addressing the problem of food security. At the same time the course will provide an overview of the field of international security, and examine how governments and international institutions are beginning to include food in discussions of security.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 801:
TGR Project
Terms: Aut, Win, Spr, Sum
| Units: 0
| Repeatable
for credit
Instructors: ;
Ardoin, N. (PI);
Arrigo, K. (PI);
Asner, G. (PI);
Block, B. (PI);
Boggs, C. (PI);
Boucher, A. (PI);
Caldwell, M. (PI);
Casciotti, K. (PI);
Daily, G. (PI);
Davis, J. (PI);
Denny, M. (PI);
Diffenbaugh, N. (PI);
Dirzo, R. (PI);
Dunbar, R. (PI);
Durham, W. (PI);
Egger, A. (PI);
Ernst, W. (PI);
Falcon, W. (PI);
Fendorf, S. (PI);
Field, C. (PI);
Francis, C. (PI);
Frank, Z. (PI);
Freyberg, D. (PI);
Gerritsen, M. (PI);
Gilly, W. (PI);
Gordon, D. (PI);
Gorelick, S. (PI);
Goulder, L. (PI);
Hadly, E. (PI);
Hilley, G. (PI);
Ingle, J. (PI);
Kennedy, D. (PI);
Kennedy, J. (PI);
Knight, R. (PI);
Koseff, J. (PI);
Kovscek, A. (PI);
Lambin, E. (PI);
Litvak, L. (PI);
Lobell, D. (PI);
Long, S. (PI);
Masters, G. (PI);
Matson, P. (PI);
Monismith, S. (PI);
Mooney, H. (PI);
Naylor, R. (PI);
Orr, F. (PI);
Palumbi, S. (PI);
Payne, J. (PI);
Rajaratnam, B. (PI);
Schneider, S. (PI);
Schoolnik, G. (PI);
Seto, K. (PI);
Somero, G. (PI);
Sweeney, J. (PI);
Switzer, P. (PI);
Tabazadeh, A. (PI);
Thomas, L. (PI);
Thompson, B. (PI);
Victor, D. (PI);
Vitousek, P. (PI);
Walbot, V. (PI);
Watanabe, J. (PI);
Weyant, J. (PI);
Wiederkehr, S. (PI);
Woodward, J. (PI);
Zoback, M. (PI)
EARTHSYS 109:
Creating a Green Student Workforce to Help Implement Stanford's Sustainability Vision (CEE 109, ENVRINST 109)
Examination of program-based local actions that promote resource resource conservation and an educational environment for sustainability. Examination of building-level actions that contribute to conservation, lower utility costs, and generate understanding of sustainability consistent with Stanford's commitment to sustainability as a core value. Overview of operational sustainability including energy, water, buildings, waste, and food systems. Practical training to enable students to become sustainability coordinators for their dorms or academic units.
| Units: 2
EARTHSYS 124:
Environmental Justice: Local, National, and International Dimensions (EARTHSYS 224)
Focus is on whether minorities and low income citizens suffer disproportionate environmental and health impacts resulting from government and corporate decision making in contexts such as the siting of industrial facilities and waste dumps, toxic chemical use and distribution, and the enforcement of environmental mandates and policies. Implications of environmental justice issues at the international level, emphasizing climate change.
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 126:
Institutions and the Natural Environment (EARTHSYS 226, EESS 126, EESS 226)
Institutional theory is one of the most dynamic fields in social science today. The course will explore foundational and more recent literature in institutional theory from different disciplinary perspectives as it applies to environmental issues. Critical reading and active discussions will contribute to a deeper understanding of how environmental change is informed by institutions and organizations. Enrollment is limited to graduate students or permission from the instructor.
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 131:
Communicating Environmental Research Using Narratives and Stories (EARTHSYS 231, EESS 131, EESS 231)
Creative strategies by which earth scientists can overcome impediments to scientific literacy. Construction of stories and narratives out of research. The role of imagination and cognitive perception in environmental issues. Barriers and problems that arise in risk and science awareness. Connections between environmentalism and environmental science. Environmental issues in fictional narratives. The responsible function for earth scientists in public debates. Reflections on the role of science in current and future issues likely to involve members outside of science. Priority given to students seeking degrees in the School of Earth Sciences.
| Units: 1
EARTHSYS 132:
Energy and Climate Cooperation in the Western Hemisphere (EARTHSYS 232, INTNLREL 146A, IPS 263)
Current political dynamics in major western hemisphere fossil fuel producers in N. America, the Andean region, the Southern Cone of S. America, and Trinidad and Tobago. The potential for developing sustainable alternative energy resources in the western hemisphere for export particularly biofuels, and its impact on agricultural policy, environmental protection, and food prices. The feasibility of creating regional energy security rings such as the proposed N. American Energy Security and Prosperity Partnership.
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 133:
Climate Change Law and Policy: From California to the Federal Government (EARTHSYS 233)
California climate laws, including the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB32), the Clean Cars and Trucks Bill (SB 1493), and the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Performance Standard (SB 1368), and complementary and subsidiary regulations such as the Renewable Portfolio Standard, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, land use law, and energy efficiency and decoupling. The draft scoping plan to outline California's policies for achieving its ambitious economy-wide reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The Western Climate Initiative. The history, details, and current status of California's efforts as platforms to delve into larger legal issues.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 135:
Podcasting the Anthropocene (EARTHSYS 235)
Identification and interview of a Stanford researcher to be featured in an audio podcast. Exploration of interviewing techniques, audio manipulation, and podcasting as a newly emerging media platform. Individual and group projects. Group workshops focused on preparation, review, and critiques of podcasts.
| Units: 1
| Repeatable
1 times
(up to 1 units total)
EARTHSYS 142A:
Negotiating Sustainable Development (CEE 142A, CEE 242A, EARTHSYS 242A)
How to be effective at achieving sustainability by learning the skills required to negotiate differences between stakeholders who advocate for their own interests. How ecological, social, and economic interests can be effectively balanced and managed. How to be effective actors in the sustainability movement, and use frameworks to solve complex, multiparty processes. Case study analysis of domestic and international issues. Students negotiate on behalf of different interest groups in a variety of arenas including energy, climate, land use, and the built environment. One Saturday all day field trip. No prerequisites.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 146B:
Atmosphere, Ocean, and Climate Dynamics: the Ocean Circulation (EARTHSYS 246B, EESS 146B, EESS 246B, GEOPHYS 146B, GEOPHYS 246B)
Introduction to the physics governing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and their control on climate with emphasis on the large-scale ocean circulation. This course will give an overview of the structure and dynamics of the major ocean current systems that contribute to the meridional overturning circulation, the transport of heat, salt, and biogeochemical tracers, and the regulation of climate. Topics include the tropical ocean circulation, the wind-driven gyres and western boundary currents, the thermohaline circulation, the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, water mass formation, atmosphere-ocean coupling, and climate variability. Prerequisites: EESS 146A or EESS 246A, or CEE 164 or CEE 262D, or consent of instructor.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 173:
Aquaculture and the Environment: Science, History, and Policy (EARTHSYS 273, EESS 173, EESS 273)
Can aquaculture feed billions of people without degrading aquatic ecosystems or adversely impacting local communities? Interdisciplinary focus on aquaculture science and management, international seafood markets, historical case studies (salmon farming in Chile, tuna ranching in the Mediterranean, shrimp farming in Vietnam), current federal/state legislation. Field trip to aquaculture farm and guest lectures. By application only - instructor consent required. Contact gerhart@stanford.edu or dhklinger@stanford.edu prior to first day of class.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 181:
Concepts of Urban Agriculture (EARTHSYS 281, EESS 181, EESS 281)
For advanced undergraduates and graduate students from all fields. Current status of and potential for global urban agriculture. Topics include: environmental and economic dimensions of urban food production and sourcing; city policy and land-use planning; and an ecosystem services approach to urban agriculture. Developed and developing world contexts. Two field trips are required. Students must attend one field trip from group A and another from group B. See below. nnEnrollment is limited. Application on the first day of class, attendance mandatory. Enrollment permissions will be determined after first class meeting. Contact tcostell@stanford.edu with questions. nnGroup A: Community Urban Gardens - Saturday, April 14 (morning); Saturday, April 21 (morning)nGroup B: Commercial Urban Agriculture Operations - Friday, April 20 (all day); Friday, April 27 (all day)
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 182:
Current Issues in Sustainable Agriculture (EARTHSYS 282, EESS 182, EESS 282)
Sustainability and ethics of animal production in the U.S. Demystification of the marketing of agricultural products. The past, present, and future of small family farms. Farm labor issues. Students lead discussions and write response papers.
| Units: 2
EARTHSYS 224:
Environmental Justice: Local, National, and International Dimensions (EARTHSYS 124)
Focus is on whether minorities and low income citizens suffer disproportionate environmental and health impacts resulting from government and corporate decision making in contexts such as the siting of industrial facilities and waste dumps, toxic chemical use and distribution, and the enforcement of environmental mandates and policies. Implications of environmental justice issues at the international level, emphasizing climate change.
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 226:
Institutions and the Natural Environment (EARTHSYS 126, EESS 126, EESS 226)
Institutional theory is one of the most dynamic fields in social science today. The course will explore foundational and more recent literature in institutional theory from different disciplinary perspectives as it applies to environmental issues. Critical reading and active discussions will contribute to a deeper understanding of how environmental change is informed by institutions and organizations. Enrollment is limited to graduate students or permission from the instructor.
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 231:
Communicating Environmental Research Using Narratives and Stories (EARTHSYS 131, EESS 131, EESS 231)
Creative strategies by which earth scientists can overcome impediments to scientific literacy. Construction of stories and narratives out of research. The role of imagination and cognitive perception in environmental issues. Barriers and problems that arise in risk and science awareness. Connections between environmentalism and environmental science. Environmental issues in fictional narratives. The responsible function for earth scientists in public debates. Reflections on the role of science in current and future issues likely to involve members outside of science. Priority given to students seeking degrees in the School of Earth Sciences.
| Units: 1
EARTHSYS 232:
Energy and Climate Cooperation in the Western Hemisphere (EARTHSYS 132, INTNLREL 146A, IPS 263)
Current political dynamics in major western hemisphere fossil fuel producers in N. America, the Andean region, the Southern Cone of S. America, and Trinidad and Tobago. The potential for developing sustainable alternative energy resources in the western hemisphere for export particularly biofuels, and its impact on agricultural policy, environmental protection, and food prices. The feasibility of creating regional energy security rings such as the proposed N. American Energy Security and Prosperity Partnership.
| Units: 4
EARTHSYS 233:
Climate Change Law and Policy: From California to the Federal Government (EARTHSYS 133)
California climate laws, including the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB32), the Clean Cars and Trucks Bill (SB 1493), and the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Performance Standard (SB 1368), and complementary and subsidiary regulations such as the Renewable Portfolio Standard, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, land use law, and energy efficiency and decoupling. The draft scoping plan to outline California's policies for achieving its ambitious economy-wide reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The Western Climate Initiative. The history, details, and current status of California's efforts as platforms to delve into larger legal issues.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 235:
Podcasting the Anthropocene (EARTHSYS 135)
Identification and interview of a Stanford researcher to be featured in an audio podcast. Exploration of interviewing techniques, audio manipulation, and podcasting as a newly emerging media platform. Individual and group projects. Group workshops focused on preparation, review, and critiques of podcasts.
| Units: 1
| Repeatable
1 times
(up to 1 units total)
EARTHSYS 242A:
Negotiating Sustainable Development (CEE 142A, CEE 242A, EARTHSYS 142A)
How to be effective at achieving sustainability by learning the skills required to negotiate differences between stakeholders who advocate for their own interests. How ecological, social, and economic interests can be effectively balanced and managed. How to be effective actors in the sustainability movement, and use frameworks to solve complex, multiparty processes. Case study analysis of domestic and international issues. Students negotiate on behalf of different interest groups in a variety of arenas including energy, climate, land use, and the built environment. One Saturday all day field trip. No prerequisites.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 246B:
Atmosphere, Ocean, and Climate Dynamics: the Ocean Circulation (EARTHSYS 146B, EESS 146B, EESS 246B, GEOPHYS 146B, GEOPHYS 246B)
Introduction to the physics governing the circulation of the atmosphere and ocean and their control on climate with emphasis on the large-scale ocean circulation. This course will give an overview of the structure and dynamics of the major ocean current systems that contribute to the meridional overturning circulation, the transport of heat, salt, and biogeochemical tracers, and the regulation of climate. Topics include the tropical ocean circulation, the wind-driven gyres and western boundary currents, the thermohaline circulation, the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, water mass formation, atmosphere-ocean coupling, and climate variability. Prerequisites: EESS 146A or EESS 246A, or CEE 164 or CEE 262D, or consent of instructor.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 272:
Antarctic Marine Geology (EESS 242)
For upper-division undergraduates and graduate students. Intermediate and advanced topics in marine geology and geophysics, focusing on examples from the Antarctic continental margin and adjacent Southern Ocean. Topics: glaciers, icebergs, and sea ice as geologic agents (glacial and glacial marine sedimentology, Southern Ocean current systems and deep ocean sedimentation), Antarctic biostratigraphy and chronostratigraphy (continental margin evolution). Students interpret seismic lines and sediment core/well log data. Examples from a recent scientific drilling expedition to Prydz Bay, Antarctica. Up to two students may have an opportunity to study at sea in Antarctica during Winter Quarter.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 273:
Aquaculture and the Environment: Science, History, and Policy (EARTHSYS 173, EESS 173, EESS 273)
Can aquaculture feed billions of people without degrading aquatic ecosystems or adversely impacting local communities? Interdisciplinary focus on aquaculture science and management, international seafood markets, historical case studies (salmon farming in Chile, tuna ranching in the Mediterranean, shrimp farming in Vietnam), current federal/state legislation. Field trip to aquaculture farm and guest lectures. By application only - instructor consent required. Contact gerhart@stanford.edu or dhklinger@stanford.edu prior to first day of class.
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 281:
Concepts of Urban Agriculture (EARTHSYS 181, EESS 181, EESS 281)
For advanced undergraduates and graduate students from all fields. Current status of and potential for global urban agriculture. Topics include: environmental and economic dimensions of urban food production and sourcing; city policy and land-use planning; and an ecosystem services approach to urban agriculture. Developed and developing world contexts. Two field trips are required. Students must attend one field trip from group A and another from group B. See below. nnEnrollment is limited. Application on the first day of class, attendance mandatory. Enrollment permissions will be determined after first class meeting. Contact tcostell@stanford.edu with questions. nnGroup A: Community Urban Gardens - Saturday, April 14 (morning); Saturday, April 21 (morning)nGroup B: Commercial Urban Agriculture Operations - Friday, April 20 (all day); Friday, April 27 (all day)
| Units: 3
EARTHSYS 282:
Current Issues in Sustainable Agriculture (EARTHSYS 182, EESS 182, EESS 282)
Sustainability and ethics of animal production in the U.S. Demystification of the marketing of agricultural products. The past, present, and future of small family farms. Farm labor issues. Students lead discussions and write response papers.
| Units: 2
EARTHSYS 298:
Earth Systems Book Review
For Earth Systems master's students and advanced undergraduates only. Analysis and discussion of selected literary nonfiction books relevant to Earth systems topics. Examples of previous topics include political presentations of environmental change in the popular press, review of the collected works of Aldo Leopold, disaster literature, and global warming.
| Units: 2
| Repeatable
for credit
