Forest and Natural Resource Management B.S.

Students pursuing the forest ecosystem management and conservation sub-plan learn the principles, practices, and techniques of forestry and related natural resource management. The sub-plan prepares students to become directly involved in forest ecosystem management or further specializations, such as resource analysis, conservation planning, forest protection, or policy analysis. Principal employers are federal, state and county forestry, wildlife, and conservation agencies; forest products companies; consulting firms; international agencies; and nongovernmental conservation organizations. This sub-plan is accredited by the Society of American Foresters. Further, successful completion of sub-plan course work qualifies a student for the Society of American Foresters' Candidate Certified Forester program.

Students must take a minimum of 48 credits from the Forest Ecosystem Management and Conservation sub-plan. Students who choose this sub-plan will take a minimum of 88 credits for the Forest and Natural Resource Management major.

The park and protected area management sub-plan prepares students to plan for and manage natural resources, especially protected areas such as parks, forests, wild lands, and water resources, for multiple benefits including those attained by visitors, resource-dependent communities, and society as a whole. The curriculum emphasizes natural and managed protected areas; natural resources-oriented recreation programs in public and private sectors; social science aspects of natural resource use; and skills in communication, planning, and management. Graduates often serve as park, river or wilderness rangers; protected area managers; outdoor recreation planners; resource-based tourism providers; heritage preservation specialists; and outdoor educators. Typical employers include protected area management and planning agencies within federal, state, and local parks; forestry; wildlife; nature conservation; and related non-governmental organizations. Additionally, this curriculum provides excellent preparation for graduate training in the human dimensions of natural resources. A minor is also available.

Students must take a minimum of 39 credits from the Park and Protected Area Management sub-plan. Students who choose this sub-plan will take a minimum of 79 credits for the Forest and Natural Resource Management major.

The urban and community forestry sub-plan prepares students for planning and managing vegetation and related natural resources in or near urban communities, and for specializations, such as urban planning and environmental education. Urban forests include areas along streets, in parks, private lands, greenbelts, and open spaces. Graduates help plan, design, and protect these forests including supervision of tree selection, planting, and plant health care programs. Employers include city government, tree care/arboricultural firms, state and federal forestry agencies, nurseries, and utility companies. Graduates may also qualify for traditional forestry positions. This sub-plan is also accredited by the Society of American Foresters.

Students must take a minimum of 46 credits from the Urban & Community Forestry sub-plan. Students who choose this sub-plan will take a minimum of 86 credits for the Forest and Natural Resource Management major.