International Summer School Program at Hamburg University

In July 2009, a 16-day multidisciplinary graduate-level summer studies program in “Wetland Science and Management” will be held at the University of Hamburg. The program is set up as a partnership between Hamburg University (Germany) and the University of Maryland in College Park (US). A similar program was held during the summer of 2008, hosted by the University of Maryland. The summer studies program is promoted by the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service).

The summer school will last from the 15th until the 31st of July 2009. Twelve students from the US and ten students from Germany will attend the summer school. The program comprises 13 expert lectures, 22 student presentations as weel as lab practices and field trips. In addition, social events like a boat cruise on the river Elbe, a barbecues and an one day trip to Berlin will be part of the summer school program.

Scientific Background

Wetlands are among the most biologically productive and diverse ecosystems on earth. Wetlands provide many ecosystem services, including pollutant removal from surface runoff, carbon sequestration, storm surge protection, and are critical habitat for a huge array of animals and plants. However, throughout much of the world, wetlands have been destroyed or damaged by human activities. Drainage for agriculture and expansion of urban centers have caused the greatest losses of wetlands, and releases of nutrients, pollutants, and non-native species have stressed or altered the populations of plants and animals that inhabit them. Furthermore, global climate change is viewed increasingly as a major threat to wetlands.