Stage 6 Avalon Coastal Dunes - an Ecosystem at Risk Field Trip

Student outcomes

Students will:

  • Explain how biophysical interactions have produced these unique ecosystems.
  • Use a range of resources and field techniques to investigate the spatial patterns and biophysical interactions of each ecosystem (if you’re studying both).
  • Observe and identify a range of both positive and negative human impacts.
  • Evaluate current management strategies to see if they are ecologically sustainable.

Field trip planning

Read Dune and Careel Bay Ecosystem Summaries, (as provided) Define Biogeographic Processes relevant to dunes.

Sample program

9:30am
Arrive Avalon SLSC, brief introduction to the history and describe how the interaction of each sphere has produced this environment. Students use colour field sheets to identify dominant dune vegetation and its features of resilience. Working in small groups all students use field equipment to undertake a transect study which they use to identify the physical stresses on the vegetation. The primary data can be graphed and interpreted after the field trip to add vertical exaggeration. Finally students will contribute specific points to explain why this dune is an ecosystem at risk both now and in the future.

11:30am
Enjoy a brief lunch break with toilets, shade and shops nearby, then continue with the Careel Bay field trip at 12pm for a 2:30pm finish.