Aim of the course

Aquatic toxicology is an accepted tool for effective water resource management. Investigations of effects of whole effluents and/or single variables on aquatic biota are undertaken. The ensuing results are used for refining, or setting, site-specific water quality guidelines, and interpreting biomonitoring and chemical monitoring information. Present legislation will make toxicology testing compulsory for many users. This introduction to applied aquatic ecotoxicology provides a basic understanding of toxicological concepts, and designing and interpreting toxicity experiments (Theory and Policy Course). The Practical Course allows for hands-on experience of standard aquatic toxicity tests.

Course details

THEORY & POLICY COURSE:The Theory and Policy Course provides the necessary context for the application of toxicity tests in water resource management. Concepts of aquatic toxicology, different types of toxicity tests and choice of test organisms will be discussed in the context of experimental design, data requirements and analyses in developing a toxicity testing programme. The course will show how ecotoxicological, biomonitoring and environmental water quality data can be used effectively in water resource management. Legislation, case studies from industry, and risk assessment are closely considered. Presentations will be by staff of the UCEWQ and invited experts.

PRACTICAL COURSE:The Practical Course will allow delegates to gain hands-on experience of the standard toxicity tests which are likely to become a regulatory requirement in the near future, namely:

·       Daphnia pulex test (invertebrate)

·       Fish test

·       Vibrio fischeri bioluminescent test (bacterial)

·       P.subcapitata growth inhibition test (algal)

Delegates will also be exposed to issues related to other aspects of laboratory toxicity tests such as sample handling and preparation as well as data analyses. Presentations will be by staff of UCEWQ and Rhodes University.

why should i do the course?

1. The Practical Course allows for hands-on experience of standard aquatic toxicity tests.

2. Presentations will be by staff of the UCEWQ and invited experts

3. Those completing the Practical Course will receive a Rhodes University Certificate of Attendance

4. Those completing the Theory and policy course and passing the written test will receive a Rhodes University Certificate of competence

who should attend?

·  Anyone who needs to know more about aquatic ecotoxicology and the application and use of ecotoxicological data.

·  Technical staff who conduct toxicity tests

·  Mid-level managers

·  Planners and other officials from government or private institutions

Presentations and course material will be in English.

Course fees

COMPLETE COURSE:

Theory & Policy Course + Practical Course = R7000.00 per person (including lecture material, use of laboratory equipment, teas and lunch)

Course timeline

Monday 3rd:  13:00-17:00

Tuesday 4th — Thursday 6th: 08:00-17:00

Friday 7th: 08:00-13:00

Course venue

Institute for Water Research

Old Geology Building

Artillery Road

Rhodes University

Grahamstown

Conditions of enrolment

Please contact the course coordinator to receive your registration form. Complete  and sign the registration form and return it to the UCEWQ.

The number of enrolments for both components of the course is limited. Places will be allocated on a first come-first serve basis. Receipt of a completed registration form will secure your place on the course, subject to availability.

Course fees can be paid electronically into Rhodes University’s banking account: details will be furnished on request. Please note that cheques should be made out to Rhodes University.

Detailed course information and course programme will be forwarded to delegates upon confirmation of attendance.

Please note that transport and accommodation for the courses are for your own arrangement. Lunch and teas will be provided.

CANCELLATION POLICY

A 100% refund will be issued for withdrawals up to one week prior to commencement of the course, subject to a R250.00 non-refundable processing fee. A 50% refund will be issued for withdrawals in the week prior to the course. No refund will be issued for withdrawals on or after commencement of the course. The organisers reserve the right to cancel the course and full refunds will be issued in this event.

Registration deadline:

21^st April 2010

For further information, please contact the course coordinator:

Course Coordinator: Pearl Gola
UCEWQ-IWR, Rhodes University
P.O. Box 94

Grahamstown, 6140

Phone: 046-622 2428 / 046-603 8532
Fax: 046-622 9427
Email: course -at- iwr.ru.ac.za

http://www.ru.ac.za/institutes/iwr/ucewq/