Dr. Todd T. Tracy Professor of Biology; Department Chair
Education:
Ph.D., Colorado State University
M.S., Colorado State University
B.A., Cornell College
712-707-7340
ttracy@nwciowa.edu
SCI 224
Dr. Tracy is one of two ecologists in Northwestern's biology department. His research interests include prairie restoration, community ecology of bumblebees and ants, the potential effects of windfarms on grassland bird populations, and the impacts of invasive species on the forests and prairies of the Midwest. Prior to joining Northwestern’s faculty in January 2002, he taught at Kirkwood Community College, Front Range Community College, Colorado State University, and Colorado Christian University.
BIO116 - General Biology: Ecology and Organismal Biology
(4 credits) An introduction to organismal biology and ecology. Structure and function of representatives from the plant and animal kingdom are emphasized. In addition, students will be introduced to basic ecological concepts and Christian perspectives on stewardship. Note: Three lectures and 3 hours of laboratory work per week. A fee is associated with this course.
BIO205 - Ecology
(4 credits) A study of the processes determining the distribution and abundance of organisms in space and time, their exchange of matter and energy with their environment, the measurement of these phenomena, and the application of ecological knowledge in the care of creation. Prerequisites: BIO115 and 116. Note: Course includes required field trips and 3 hours of lab per week. A fee is associated with this course.
BIO330 - Topics in Ecology
(1-4 credits; a minimum of 4 credits will be offered per year) Advanced studies of the function and structure of local ecological communities and/or life forms. Courses will emphasize the use of fieldwork, research projects and/or primary literature. Prerequisites: BIO205 or permission of instructor. Note: Course may include required field trips and 3 lab hours per week. A fee is associated with this course.
NSC101 - Introduction to Earth Science
(4 credits, alternate years, consult department) An introduction to an understanding of Earth?s geological, hydrological, atmospheric, and environmental systems, the impact of human activity on such systems, and the ethical basis and strategies for human response to environmental degradation. Course includes required field trips and 90 minutes of lab per week. Note: This course is restricted to students pursuing a Middle School endorsement. Students may NOT receive credit for both BIO101SN and NSC101. A fee is associated with this course.
Board of Directors, Iowa Academy of Science
Advanced Placement Environmental Science Exam Reader, Table Leader, and Question Leader
Educational Testing Service
Course auditor for CollegeBoard (AP Environmental Science)
Instructor at Wheaton College Science Station near Rapid City, SD
Environmental Science and Biology Content Expert and Test bank Developer , Pearson Education
Interim Coordinator of Undergraduate Programs, School of Professional Studies, Colorado Christian University
Affiliate Professor, School of Professional Studies, Colorado Christian University
Instructor and Visiting Professor, Department of Biology, Colorado State University
Adjunct Faculty, Science and Math Department, Front Range Community College
Laboratory Coordinator, Department of Math/Science, Kirkwood Community College
Laboratory Instructor, Kirkwood Community College
IOWATER volunteer water quality monitor
Iowa and South Dakota Bumblebee Atlas volunteer
USGS Breeding Bird Survey Route volunteer
Au Sable Institute Academic Advisory Council
NWC Scholarship Grant, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023
Mellon Foundation Environmental Research Initiative (with student Erin Brogan)
2008-2010
Iowa Science Foundation grant #ISF-07-10, 2007-2008
Iowa Science Foundation grant #ISF-06-08, 2006-2007
Graduate Assistant Teaching Award, Colorado State University
