This course reviews the geological and environmental evolution of the North American continent over the past 4 billion years by exploring the range of plate tectonic processes involved in continental growth and how those processes are expressed today as geologic hazards. The course will also review the origins of Canada’s natural resources and review changes in terrestrial and marine environments including climate, and the associated ecosystem changes up to the present day. Students will become familiar with recent anthropogenic influences on the environment in regard to waste management, resource extraction and the impacts of urbanization on watersheds on a weekend field trip. This course will provide students with knowledge of naturally occurring long- and short-term environmental changes as context to modern day environmental concerns.
The course meets the requirements of the Association of Professional Geoscientists of Ontario.