Conservation Biology is the scientific study of the phenomena that affect the maintenance, loss, and restoration of biological diversity. Topics covered include: 1) the role of ecology, biogeography, and genetics in maintaining species and ecosystem diversity, 2) the effects of human activities on the loss of natural habitats and biodiversity with consideration of strategies developed to combat these threats, 3) key economic and ethical tradeoffs required to sustain biodiversity, 4) key legislation and policies affecting conservation, 5) the role of nongovernmental organizations in conservation, and 6) the design and roles of nature preserves, zoos, and botanical gardens. Two-hour lecture, two-hour lab. Prerequisites: C- or better in BIO 20704 or Hocking College Associate Degree in Wildlife or Fish Sciences.