Plants are the key stone of all natural and managed ecosystems. Forestry industries, human and livestock health and agriculture wellbeing all depend on healthy plant communities and ecosystems.
Plant ecologists study the interactions among plants, between plants and ecosystems. Plant ecologists study the interactions among plants, between plants and the environment, and between soils, plants and animals. In applied plant ecology major, students will learn how to apply ecological principles to ecosystems such as rangelands, forests, wetlands, and croplands for sustainable production.
Career Opportunities
Applied plant ecology majors often pursue career as environmental scientists responsible for managing rangelands, forests, wetlands and conservation areas. Frequent employers include conservation agencies, national and provincial parks and reserves, agricultural and environmental agencies as well as environmental consulting firms, industry, government agencies and non-profit organizations.