Students in the School of Environmental and Conservation Sciences have the opportunity to develop hands-on skills they need in their careers as environmental scientists.

In the third-year unit, Managing Wetlands and Water (ENV332), the class hit the water, in a boat of course, in small groups to practice field-based monitoring techniques. This unit provides both the theoretical understanding, and the practical skills needed to effectively manage, monitor and conserve aquatic ecosystems. The unit focuses on inland waters (wetlands, rivers and lakes), although estuaries are also considered. The skills needed to assess the dissolved oxygen, salinity, and turbidity of the water being tested are the daily bread and butter for a scientist tasked with monitoring and managing the health of aquatic ecosystems. 

Graduates that have undertaken ENV332 graduate with the knowledge and skills needed for roles such as environmental or ecological scientist in the consulting, resource and government sectors. These skills are also advantageous for students seeking to continue with their studies with a focus on aquatic ecosystems, especially those impacted by human activities. 

The unit Managing Wetlands and Water is coordinated by two of Murdoch University’s passionate wetland ecologists, Dr Jane Chambers and Dr Belinda Robson. Jane is a Senior Lecturer and active researcher in the School of Environmental and Conservation Sciences as well as Director of the community of practice, NatureLink Perth. Belinda specialises in invertebrate communities associated with wetlands, especially dragonflies!