We are small. We can only do so much as humans. So, it makes good sense to work with a "geographical unit" defined by specific biological, geological and climatic features - especially if we live within it or nearby. That way, we can learn about species adapted to our local climate.
In turn, we may discover a depth of knowledge from these life forms usually revealed only to profession people with long experience.
Our local work combined with the work of people from other regions can be connected to reveal the wonders of a much bigger system. But this is for later.
It is also most important to share what we learn about our local unit with the people who live there.
A "geographical unit" marked by climate and geology that cradles groups of wildlife and plants is called an ECOLOGICAL SYSTEM.
Trained scientists can make certain guesses about such places. They can observe life in such a may as to discover more mysteries of life or at least establish a "framework" in which to understand some of them. This is also called an ECOSYSTEM.
In this module, we focus on a desert ecosystem.
Ecosystems may be based on geographical features, weather and seasonal patterns, or other complex parameters. Desert forms a system as does ocean, forest, mountain, grassland, river and reef.
Within these ecological systems, one system that is found along a river, forested corridors on both sides interspersed with wetlands and sometimes meadows is called a RIPARIAN ECOSYSTEM. Riparian ecosystems include tributaries.
In the desert, the riparian ecosystem is extremely important, because water sustains life.
Along with grasslands this is the one of the most endangered ecosystems in the world. Humans have claimed them for farming, to the extent that other species have begun to die off by losing resources and habitat.
Within such an ecosystem, a smaller section can be observed closely for life forms. These sections are called a COMMUNITY.
In this module, we look at a slice of the desert and riparian ecosystems. Desert and riparian communities in the town of Shiprock, within a region called San Juan Basin. This basin contains mountains, canyons, rivers, and deserts.