BookJohn T. Tanacredi.
Summary: This book provides insight into the basic aspects of ecology that impact or are affected by engineering practices. Ecological principals are described and discussed through the lens of the influences that built structures have on the Earth's biological, geological, and chemical systems. The text goes on to elucidate the engineering influences that have or will influence the face of the Earth. These influences redesign the Earth, either by destroying natural systems and replacing them with highly subsidized systems or by attempting to restore highly disturbed or contaminated systems with the basic natural systems that were originally present.
Contents:
Ecology: Principles of Life: It's Not Just About You, You Know!
Preserving Biological Diversity: Engineers Need An Earth Ethic Also!
Ecotoxicology: Chickens Have Lips Don't They?
Genetic Engineering: Don't Dust off the Slide Ruler Just Yet
Sanitary Microbiology: Engineering Public Health Better Than the 'Good Ol' Days!'
Marine and Estuarine Ecology-Our Oceans as the Last Frontier on Earth!
Terrestrial Ecology-Restoration Is the Only Answer
Limnological Systems-Dam Dams!
Ecological Risk Assessment: Gordian Knots Untied
Environmental Law: The Only Good Lawyer is a ____
Coastal Ecosystem Restoration: Pride and Practice with No Follow-up!- Case Studies: Can we learn from past experiences? Or, Win Some, Loose Some, In the End there is No Free Lunch!
Case Study 1. Laughing Gulls and Airports: "They Shoot Gulls, Don't They?"
Case Study 2. Bridges
Delaware Bridge Toll Authority and North Channel Bridge Jamaica Bay: Troubled Bridges Over Water
Case Study 3. Gowanus Canal Restoration: Pig Skin Purse with a Silk Lining
Case Study 4. Sandy Hook Restoration- Beach Replenishment (Coastal Erosion and Recreation!)
Case Study 5. Vandalia Dunes and Estates
Inner City Sprawl and We Love It!