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Natural Resource Ecology and Management

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The department addresses a broad spectrum of natural resource and environmental issues in a holistic approach to learning, discovery and engagement. Our vision of natural resources is that informed protection and management of natural resources involves an integration of biological, economic, and social considerations. Such an integrated and comprehensive approach to the education of future generations of natural resource managers and scientists is needed in order to sustain viable landscapes, facilitate strong communities, and produce desired goods, services, and functions from our natural resources.

Our educational mission for the undergraduate and graduate programs is to provide those learning experiences and opportunities that will ensure students can learn to function effectively in their chosen fields.

Central to that effective functioning are the abilities to:

  • Identify, explain and critically evaluate their own beliefs, values and actions in relation to professional and societal standards of ethics.
  • Anticipate, analyze and evaluate natural resource issues and opportunities, explaining the ecological, economic, and social consequences of natural resource actions at various scales and over time.
  • Actively seek the input and perspectives of diverse stakeholders regarding natural resource problems and issues.
  • Assess, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information fairly and objectively.
  • Work effectively, both individually and with others, on complex, value-laden natural resource problems that require holistic problem solving approaches.
  • Formulate and evaluate alternative solutions to complex problems and recommend and defend best alternatives.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively with all audiences using appropriate oral, visual, electronic, and written techniques.
  • Recognize and interpret resource problems and opportunities across spatial scales from local to global.
  • Appreciate cultural diversity and understand the impact of the global distribution of people and wealth on natural resource use and valuation.
  • Exercise leadership skills as professionals and engaged citizens.
  • Demonstrate creativity and innovation in identifying and pursuing opportunities that produce environmental, social, or economic value.
  • Exercise life-long learning skills developed before graduation.