Ecological Land Classification

May 25 - 29, and June 15 - 19, 2026

Learn to see the landscape the way an ecologist does.
ECOPA’s Ecological Land Classification (ELC) course is the most comprehensive and hands-on ELC training available in Ontario. Designed for environmental consultants, conservation authorities, government staff, NGOs, and new professionals in the field, this course provides both the theoretical foundation and the practical field skills necessary to accurately classify and describe Ontario’s ecosystems.

Over five intensive days, you’ll work through vegetation, soils, and site characteristics in the field using the classification products Ecological Land Classification for Southern Ontario: First Approximation and its Application, and Ecosites of Ontario. While some prior experience with plant identification and soil description in the field is beneficial, the course is suitable for all levels of expertise.

Our instructors have decades of experience applying the ELC system in consulting, research, and environmental management. They don’t just teach from a textbook — they teach from years of doing this work across southern Ontario.

What you’ll learn:

The structure and principles of the ELC System for Southern Ontario
How to recognize, record, and classify vegetation, soils, and site conditions
Field techniques for delineating and documenting communities
How to integrate ELC data into reports, mapping, and environmental assessments
Common classification pitfalls and how to avoid them

Course format:

How to integrate ELC data into reports, mapping, and environmental assessments
Five days (spring sessions in May and June)
A mix of classroom instruction and extensive fieldwork
Small class sizes for one-on-one guidance
All field materials provided

Certification:
An optional ELC challenge test will be offered at the end of the course for those participants seeking an ECOPA certification. The test will cover field techniques and theory, with a minimum grade of 75% to pass. Graduates of the ECOPA ELC course may receive assistance with ELC assessments following completion of the course.

Whether you’re new to the ELC system or looking to refine your skills, this course delivers the confidence and capability to classify ecosystems the right way.

Program Outline

Monday

Morning

Registration
Introduction to ELC

Afternoon

Aerial & satellite imagery and desktop analysis
Field exercise - imagery, delineating polygon boundaries, and establishing waypoints

Tuesday

Morning

Physiography of southern and central Ontario
Introduction to soils, pedogenesis, soil separates & textures, soil profiles

Afternoon

Field exercise: soil augers and pits, identifying and assessing soil horizons and characteristics

Wednesday

Morning

Soil moisture regimes and drainage
Vegetation inventory and assessment
Field exercise – identification of forest vegetation, assessing forested communities - tree heights, diameters, forest structure, basal area stand composition.

Afternoon