Biophysical interactions - forests

Biophysical interactions

Preliminary Geography 

How do the four components of the biophysical environment interact in eucalypt forests and what are the effects of human activities on the functioning of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere?

This excursion introduces students to the nature and functioning of the four components: the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere within two vegetation communites, the threatened ecological community Sydney Turpentine-Ironbark forest and the Coastal Enriched Sandstone Dry Forest both located in the Field of Mars Reserve. 

Undertaking geographic inquiry, students engage in fieldwork and use geographical tools to examine the key biophysical processes, biophyscial interactions and human impacts within these two forest types. Students will use sampling techniques to measure biotic and abiotic factors, identify vegetation structure and composition, and assess community diversity. Students will compare and contrast collected data to identify how specific biophysical environments function. Students will also conduct an observational survey of various issues present in the reserve, and use technology to research underlying human interactions and impacts on the four components of the biophysical environment. Maps, video, satellite imagery, and other secondary resources will be used to support fieldwork inquiry.

The fieldwork techniques used will support students undertaking their Senior Geography Project (SGP) in natural environments. 

Attending this excursion fulfills the NSW Preliminary Geography course requirements for fieldwork in Biophysical interactions. 

Location

• The Field of Mars Reserve