RIT Libraries Recent Acquisitions - Environment

Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems / Michael N. DeMers

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Locate your place in the exciting field of GIS In existence since 1962, Geographical Information Systems (GIS) are really coming into their own today. And not just in your car's GPS system or your cell phone's tracking capabilities. GIS is finding applications throughout science, government, business, and industry, from regional and community planning, architecture, and transportation to public health, crime mapping, and national defense. Michael DeMers's Fundamentals of Geographic Information, Fourth Edition brings an already essential text up to date, capturing the significant developments in the field and responding to the needs of a diverse set of readers, from geographers to students in a host of other fields. If you are a non-geographer or new to GIS, get a quick introduction to the "lay of the land" of GIS through the new "Spatial Learner's Permit" section. Then join in the excitement of discovery with GIS databases as you absorb the such concepts and skills as digital geographic data and maps, GIS data models, spatial analysis, measurement and classification, cartographic modeling, and GIS design. Responding to both the needs and technical skills of today's students, this Fourth Edition: * Makes concepts accessible to students from a wide range of backgrounds * Offers more practical and relevant coverage of GIS design and implementation * Reflects the latest changes in GIS applications * Examines in greater depth the underlying computer science behind GIS * Uncovers the most recent developments on GIS research * Expands coverage of the increasingly robust literature on cartographic visualization * Includes Web-based labs and links to current and updated dataset resources Taking an open-ended, hands-on approach that gets you to ask your own questions about the underlying concepts, the Fourth Edition helps you not only master the basics but acquire the active problem-solving skills that are a key component of success in the GIS industry.

Added: Thursday, Oct 2 2008

The Chilling Stars : a Cosmic View of Climate Change / Henrik Svensmark & Nigel Calder

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: 'Before you make up your mind about climate, change you are advised to read this controversial and compelling book' Nexus Magazine. New evidence based on Henrik Svensmark's scientific research prompts questions to be raised about the role of man made carbon dioxide in global warming. The sun, stars and cosmic rays have often been overlooked but in this radical new book they are placed centre stage in the climate change debate.

Added: Thursday, Oct 2 2008

Great Lakes for Sale : From Whitecaps to Bottlecaps / Dave Dempsey ; with a Foreword By Bart Stupak

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Great Lakes for Sale is a book for anyone interested in saving the Great Lakes, a huge fresh-water system that contains an estimated 6 quadrillion gallons of water and about twenty percent of the world's fresh surface water. The book poses---and answers---important questions about the export and diversion of Great Lakes water. Not only does Great Lakes for Sale examine past and present water-diversion practices; it also shows readers what they can do to save this natural resource.It's difficult to understate the importance of the Great Lakes water system---economically, environmentally, or from a public-health perspective. The Great Lakes support year-round sport fishery, they provide a route for commercial and recreational navigation, and they supply many communities with drinking water. Water means jobs and life in the Great Lakes region. And, while residents of this huge region revel in a seemingly limitless quantity of fresh water today, it's likely that the future will see that same fresh water grow ever more scarce as well as become a source of contention between thirsty communities---and corporations---further afield and those who live in this giant watershed.Great Lakes for Sale is an important part of the effort to remind people why commercialization of Great Lakes water is a dangerous threat. It's not simply a matter of how much water in the short term is removed; the long-term threat is control of water and the possibility that non-Great Lakes interests will assert ownership of the very substance of the Great Lakes.Dave Dempsey is senior policy advisor for the Michigan Environmental Council and well known for his writings on environmental issues in the Great Lakes region. He is author of Ruin and Recovery: Michigan's Rise as a Conservation Leader and William G. Milliken: Michigan's Passionate Moderate. He lives in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Added: Thursday, Sep 25 2008

Soils, Their Properties and Management / Edited By Peter E.V. Charman and Brian W. Murphy

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Soils: Their Properties and Management 3e is a practically oriented soil science text, designed to give a sound understanding of soils for those studying or working in environmental management, land conservation and soil management. The authors have put soils and soil conservation into the context of land management at its broadest level, providing a practical description of soils and their properties. The book examines the different kinds of degradation to which soils are susceptible, and describes the available methods of soil management and conservation. Throughout, the book has a strong practical emphasis based on the long experience of the authors contributing to each section. Since the publication of the second edition of this book in 2000, land management in Australia has undergone significant change. New issues and concerns have emerged, both in response to and as a result of the development of new methodologies for land management. The text explores the relevance of soils to matters of water quality, catchment management and the ecological sustainability of land use practices reflecting the recent changes in natural resource management in Australia.

Added: Thursday, Sep 25 2008

Finding Solutions for Environmental Conflicts : Power and Negotiation / Edward Christie

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: `If this book is read, and its contents are heeded, as widely as is justified, then the days of the application of traditional dispute-resolution procedures to environmental disputes should be over in the 21st century.' - From the foreword by Justice Peter Gray Environmental conflicts over sustainability, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), biodiversity, biotechnology and risk, chemicals and public health, are not necessarily legalistic problems but land use problems. Edward Christie shows how solutions for these conflicts can be found via consensual agreement using an approach that integrates law, science and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) and reframes the role of law and science. This book assesses the key unifying principles of environmental and administrative law in Australia, the UK/EU and USA, together with accepted scientific concepts for environmental management and protection. By doing so it provides a cross-disciplinary approach to collaborative problem-solving and decision-making, using ADR processes to resolve environmental conflicts, and will be valuable to environmental professionals. The book has been written to meet the requirements of any environmental professional - lawyer, scientist, engineer, planner - who directly, or indirectly, may be involved in development or planning conflicts when the environment is an issue. For the lawyer, this book, with its focus on understanding and integrating unifying legal principles and scientific concepts, consolidates opportunities for assessing and resolving environmental conflicts by negotiation. For the environmental professional, the book provides opportunities for managing environmental conflicts. In addition, opportunities are identified for resolving environmental conflicts by negotiation, but in quite specific situations i.e. when the interpretation and application of questions of law are not in issue and only factual (scientific) issues are in dispute. It will of course be of great interest to academics and researchers of environmental studies and environmental law. It will also appeal to the indigenous community and environmental groups who are seeking more direct and effective inputs into resolving environmental conflicts.

Added: Thursday, Sep 25 2008

Ocean Circulation : Mechanisms and Impacts : Past and Future Changes of Meridional Overturning / Andreas Schmittner, John C.H. Chiang, Sidney R. Hemming, Editors

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Added: Wednesday, Sep 17 2008

Urban Wildlife Management / Clark E. Adams, Kieran J. Lindsey, Sara J. Ash

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: The first comprehensive text to examine the issues that have led to the need for human-wildlife interface management strategies, Urban Wildlife Management focuses not only on ecological matters, but also incorporates the political, economic, and societal issues. Synthesizing hundreds of journal articles with countless other sources, the book organizes a wealth of material under five subject areas: urban landscapes, urban ecosystems, urban habitats and hazards, sociopolitical issues, and special management considerations. Exploring the changing landscape of wildlife management, the authors offer a historical perspective and take a closer look at current trends and future directions.

Added: Wednesday, Sep 17 2008

Dry Spring : the Coming Water Crisis of North America / Chris Wood

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Between global warming and ever-increasing consumption, the world is fast running out of water. And while water's scarcity will challenge the success of North America's fastest-growing regions, other areas of the continent will experience dramatic flooding. Dry Spring looks at how the coming water crisis will devastate communities unless urgent action is taken. In many areas, the damage has already begun. Author Chris Wood relates compelling stories of people all over the continent coping with new conditions: Okanagan orchardists facing an uncertain future; a Mexican fisherman on the now-dry Colorado River Delta, which has been reduced to desert because of upstream usage by the American West; a Las Vegas water cop who monitors excessive lawn watering; a New Brunswick couple fleeing their coastal house because of the encroaching ocean; and more. Wood also shows how practical solutions like xeriscaping, water "recycling," and run-off containment can preserve water for future generations.

Added: Wednesday, Sep 17 2008

Water : the Looming Crisis in India / Binayak Ray

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Water: The Looming Crisis in India examines the key issues in developing national freshwater policies for the mainland countries of the South Asian sub-continent. Ray addresses the religious diversity, ethnic fragmentation, and complicated international, politically sensitive issues that reflect differently on each of the riparian countries' freshwater policies.

Added: Wednesday, Sep 17 2008

Essential Environmental Science / Edward A. Keller, Daniel B. Botkin

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Essential Environmental Science provides a non-quantitative approach that is based on principles, critical thinking and the big questions that are driving the field today. It offers a condensed look at the field, covering topics in way that will help readers answer the "big questions." It eliminates more detailed or advanced topics to make the material more accessible while also placing the focus on today's important issues.

Added: Thursday, Sep 11 2008

Coral Reef Restoration Handbook / Edited By William F. Precht

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: "… this book is the first to describe, in detail, the art and science of coral reef restoration. It is to be hoped that the information that can be gleaned within the pages of this book will set a path towards continued preservation of this valuable underwater treasure to be used, appreciated, and experienced for future generations." -- Senator Bob Graham (retired), Miami Lakes, Florida, from the Foreword Most of what we know about the rehabilitation of coral reef systems stems from efforts to repair reefs injured by vessels that have run aground. To date, however, there is a paucity of published literature regarding the efficacy and/or failure of coral reef restoration techniques. While most of the literature that is available comes from meeting abstracts, workshops and technical memoranda, these papers and reports have forged a scientific framework that can help guide future efforts. The Coral Reef Restoration Handbook is the first published volume devoted to the science of coral reef restoration. It offers a scientific, conceptual framework along with practical strategies for reef assessment and restoration. Contributors from a variety of disciplines discuss engineering, geological, biological, and socioeconomic factors to create a text that is designed to guide scientists and resource managers in the decision-making process from initial assessment of the injury through conceptual restoration design, implementation, and monitoring. An excellent selection of relevant case studies is utilized to illustrate concepts and challenges inherent in the process of restoration. This volume gives reef scientists and managers the opportunity to glean significant information from previous efforts. It provides them with the opportunity to build on the lessons learned and develop successful restoration efforts into the future.

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

Onboard Weather Handbook : Understanding and Predicting Conditions at Sea / Chris Tibbs

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: International Marine's first basic book on marine weather Written by noted meteorologist/sailor Chris Tibbs for the Royal Yachting Association and adapted for the North American market, On-Board Weather Handbook is a full-color, user-friendly introduction to interpreting wind, clouds and barometer and integrating these with official forecasts. Includes information on new technology and a chapter on weather routing.

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

Mosquito Ecology : Field Sampling Methods

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Mosquito Ecology: Field Sampling Methods is the Third Edition of this popular reference work, originally devised and written by Professor M W Service and now updated by John B Silver. The purpose of the third edition is in keeping with the original vision of Professor Service to describe the methods and rationale for sampling mosquitoes, with particular emphasis on the ecology and behaviour of those species that play a role as vectors of human and animal diseases and infections. The book is designed to serve as a practical reference for field entomologists and mosquito control specialists and describes the sampling methods and available trapping technologies and tools for the collection of all life-stages of mosquitoes, from egg to adult. It also describes the techniques available for data analysis and discusses ecological principles of relevance to the study of field populations of mosquitoes. While concentrating primarily on mosquitoes, many of the techniques described are suitable for the study of other Diptera, including Ceratopogonidae, Chironomidae, Simuliidae, Phlebotominae, etc.

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

Wildlife Habitat Management : Concepts and Applications in Forestry / Brenda C. McComb

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: In recent years, conflicts between ecological conservation and economic growth forced a reassessment of the motivations and goals of wildlife and forestry management. Focus shifted from game and commodity management to biodiversity conservation and ecological forestry. Previously separate fields such as forestry, biology, botany, and zoology merged into a common framework known as conservation biology and resource professionals began to approach natural resource problems in an interdisciplinary light. Wildlife Habitat Management: Concepts and Applications in Forestry presents anintegrated reference combining silvicultural and forest planning principles with principles of habitat ecology and conservation biology. With extensive references and case studies drawn from real situations, this book begins with general concepts such as habitat selection, forest composition, influences on habitat patterns, and the dynamics of disturbance ecology. It considers management approaches for specific habitats including even-aged and uneven-aged systems, riparian areas, and dead wood and highlights those approaches that will conserve and manage biodiversity. The author discusses assessment and prioritization policies, monitoring techniques, and ethical and legal issues that can have worldwide impact. Detailed appendices provide a glossary, scientific names, and tools for measuring and interpreting habitat elements. Writing in a species-specific manner, the author emphasizes the need to consider the potential effects of management decisions on biodiversity conservation and maintains a holistic approach throughout the book. Drawing from the author's more than 30 years working and teaching in natural resources conservation, Wildlife Habitat Management: Concepts and Applications in Forestry provides a synopsis of current preservation techniques and establishes a common body of knowledge from which to approach the conservation of biodiversity in the future.

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

What Shat That? : the Pocket Guide to Poop Identity / Matt Pagett

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Ever paused to ponder poo? This unique book will resolve all scat squabbles and doo-doo debates. Ideal for nature lovers and backyard biologists, WHAT SHAT THAT? is an original and authoritative survey of the substance that unites all creatures big and small. All major international species are covered, along with more wild and exotic species, while full-color photos capture each turd in all of its glory. Handy identification tips and "scat facts" run throughout the book to help you gain confidence in your poop-identification ability, and there's even a special color comparison chart for in-the-field classification.

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

Introduction to Fire in California / David Carle

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: What is fire? How are wildfires ignited? How do California's weather and topography influence fire? How did the California Indians use fire? In the spirit of his highly acclaimed Introduction to Air in California and Introduction to Water in California, David Carle now turns to another fundamental element of the natural world, giving a fascinating and concise view of this complex topic. His clearly written, dramatically illustrated book will help Californians, including the millions who live near naturally flammable wildlands, better understand their own place in the state's landscape. Carle covers the basics of fire ecology; looks at the effects of fire on wildlife, soil, water, and air; discusses firefighting organizations and land management agencies; explains current policies; and explores many other topics. Introduction to Fire in California features: * 91 color illustrations and 15 maps * Tips on what to do before, during, and after fires * An overview of major wildfires in California's history * A discussion of the effect of climate change on fires in natural landscapes

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

Hurricane Almanac : the Essential Guide to Storms Past, Present, and Future / Bryan Norcross

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Essential Information from CBS News' Hurricane Analyst Bryan Norcross's pioneering and courageous TV coverage of Hurricane Andrew in 1992 helped millions of people in Florida cope with the killer storm. This revised and updated version of last year's popular almanac adds detailed stories of the powerful hurricanes of the past that would be catastrophes if they happened today and explores how explosive coastal development during a time of relatively few hurricanes has set the stage for mega-disasters. If hurricanes make landfall today at the rate they did in much of the twentieth century, how could we prevent the unimaginable destruction? A new section will also help you better understand hurricane advisories. Bryan Norcross's Hurricane Almanac is two books in one. The first half is hurricane science, history, and perspectives on how we, as a society, deal with hurricanes. The second half is a personal guide to "Living Successfully in the Hurricane Zone." In addition to reviewing and explaining the relatively mild 2006 hurricane season, it looks forward to hurricane seasons to come, highlights the fascinating history of hurricanes interacting with civilization, and details our rapidly increasingly ability---but still with limitations---to predict the severity and tracks of storms. With preparation checklists and shopping lists, an easy-to-understand guide to the technical information coming from the National Hurricane Center, and critical practical information, Hurricane Almanac is your essential guide to coping with Mother Nature's greatest storms. A provocative chapter entitled: How I'd Do It Better details Norcross's ideas for a better hurricane system. -Family Communications-Evacuation Decision-making-Staying in a House-Staying in an Apartment-Shutters-Hurricane-proof Windows-Backup Power-Generators-Computer Hurricane Plan-Post-storm Air-Conditioning-Candles-Pool Preparation-Pets, Boats, Cars, and Businesses-Insurance

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

The Everglades Experiments : Lessons for Ecosystem Restoration / Curtis J. Richardson

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

Ice, Mud and Blood : Lessons From Climates Past / Chris Turney

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: Imagine a world of wildly escalating temperatures, apocalyptic flooding, devastating storms and catastrophic sea levels. This might sound like a prediction for the future or the storyline of a new Hollywood blockbuster but it's actually what occurred on earth in the past. In a day and age when worrying forecasts for future climate change are the norm, it seems hard to believe that such things happened regularly over time. Can humankind decipher the past and learn from it? As science gains new understanding of how the planet works, it's becoming increasingly clear that no one place is disconnected from anywhere else. From the Alps to the Andes, seemingly unrelated parts of the world are connected in one way or another. By reading this book you'll realize that we're facing challenges beyond anything our species has had to contend with before.

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008

Global Warming 101 / Bruce E. Johansen

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EDT

Description: The accelerating pace of global warming is provoking anxiety that the Earth is reaching an ominous threshold, a point of no return. Within a decade or two, various feedbacks may take greenhouse warming past any human ability to contain or reverse it. Carbon-dioxide levels in the atmosphere are rising rapidly, fed by increasing fossil-fuel use world-wide, melting permafrost, slash-and-burn agriculture in Indonesia and Brazil, increasing wildfires, as well as rapid industrialization using dirty coal in China and India. Global warming may well become the most urgent problem the world faces during the 21st Century . Natural variations are no longer the major contribution (or "forcing") in Earth's climate. Human contributions became the major factor about 1950. This book has been prepared as a reference for high-school students, but it also will be useful for anyone who wants a compact, plain-spoken basic guide to the science of global warming. Global Warming 101 begins with an examination of basic issues, followed by important controversies in the field. The book then describes scientific issues related to melting ice, rising seas, and effects on plants and animals, as well as human health. Global Warming 101 concludes with consideration of possible solutions. Global Warming 101 combines a survey of the science of global warming with reporting from around the world, from sinking Pacific islands and thawing Arctic permafrost, which indicate that significant global warming already has begun.

Added: Thursday, Sep 4 2008