About the instructor: Ruth Harper is an Assistant Professor of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry in the Huxley College of the Environment at Western Washington University. She has worked on projects ranging from genetically based tolerance to pollutant exposure in marine systems with the NOAA Ecotoxicology Branch, CCHEBR, development of groundwater WET tests with photoactive pollutants with the Washington State DOE, and metal contamination and effects in mining systems in Colorado, Idaho, Washington, and British Columbia with agencies that include the USGS and USEPA.

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the approaches (and limitations of those approaches) used to understand toxicological problems.
• Apply toxicological principles to environmental issues.
• Understand how aquatic organisms are exposed to toxic chemicals and methods used to assess accumulation levels.
• Identify factors affecting toxicity, and understand the similarities and differences between the toxicity of metals and organic chemicals.
• Know the type of information needed to determine and predict bioavailability and effects of toxicant exposures.
• Understand modes of action of toxic chemicals.
• Use and understand toxicological terminology.
• Assess toxicity in terms of LC50 and EC50, and develop dose-response curves.
• Understand the scientific basis for and limitations of water quality standards.
• Ask the right questions.

Prerequisites:  Some college-level biology and chemistry coursework is required (even if it was a long time ago). A fundamental understanding of aquatic ecology is also helpful.

Education level:  Introductory/Refresher

Course Materials: Attendees will receive a binder containing workshop proceedings and reference material.

Continuing Education Units: 1.3

What to Bring: Pen or pencil, coffee mug, and a water bottle (to reduce waste). Please wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the prevailing weather. Lunch will be on your own. There are numerous restaurants within walking distance. Drinks and snacks will be provided each day.

Registration: $495 (*$395 reduced tuition is available for Native American tribes; government employees; nonprofits; students; and NAEP, NEBC, NWAEP or AFS members). You may register via the link below or by calling the Northwest Environmental Training Center at 206-762-1976.

Cancellation Policy: Registration fees are fully refundable up to 30 days prior to the event and 50 percent refundable (or 100% credit) thereafter up to 3 business days prior to the event. No refunds are issued for cancellations occurring less than 3 business days before the start day. Course registration fees and cancellation policy are subject to change without notice.

Disability Accommodations: To request disability accommodations, please contact us at info@nwetc.org or (206) 762-1976 at least 30 days prior to the event.