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Printed on 3/24/2023

Natural Resources Technician

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10-057-1 Associate Degree (AAS) Part Time, Full Time 66 Credits Financial Aid Eligible Time of Day: Day Location*: Appleton

*If general education courses are required, they may be available at multiple locations.

Love the outdoors? Have a passion for improving and protecting the environment? If you want to work with natural resources, this program will prepare you for careers such as a fisheries technician, surveyor, soil and water conservationist, wastewater technician or naturalist. Your professional field training will include equipment operation and field data collection for water quality and wastewater analysis, fisheries, forest management, wildlife management and soil analysis. As a technician, you may assist in managing, improving and protecting forests, rangelands and wildlife habitats. Your training also prepares you to provide technical assistance in the conservation of soil, water and related natural resources in a variety of public or private settings.

COURSE LIST

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Course list for reference only. Current students please refer to your individualized program plan or see your advisor.
**Outside effort hours are an estimate based on state standards, and may vary from person to person.

    Technical Studies (43 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Ecology
    10-057-109
    2Credit
    36
    72
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 72
    • Course Number: 10057109
    • Credits: 2.00

    Examines the relationships and interrelationships of living organisms in their environment. Students study natural selection and speciation, environmental conditions, populations and competition, succession, energy flow and biogeochemical cycles, and the diversity of ecosystems.

    Coreq: Written Communication (10801195) or English Composition 1 (10801136)
  • Plant Identification
    10-057-140
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 10057140
    • Credits: 1.00

    Provides a basic study of the trees, grasses, herbs and aquatics of Wisconsin. The class focuses on the principal species of seven major plant communities: forest, bog, agriculture, prairie, marsh, shrub and beach.

  • Exploring Natural Resources
    10-057-183
    3Credit
    90
    72
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 90
    • Outside Effort Hours: 72
    • Course Number: 10057183
    • Credits: 3.00

    Provides basic study of natural resources, focusing on their abundance, importance, and conservation. The physical biological variables of the environment will be studied in field and classroom settings. Career development will be incorporated to expose students to job-related activities for the following core areas: wildlife and fisheries, forestry, surveying, outdoor recreation, soils, and water quality and wastewater management.

  • Natural Resources Common Topics
    10-057-143
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 10057143
    • Credits: 2.00

    Introduces U.S. public land surveys, topographic maps, orienteering principles and mapping. Other topics include the polar planimeter, dot grid, abney levels and clinometers, basic aerial photo uses, and chainsaw use and maintenance.

    Coreq: College Mathematics 10804107
  • College Mathematics
    10-804-107
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10804107
    • Credits: 3.00

    Designed to review and develop fundamental concepts of mathematics in the areas of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, measurement and data. Special emphasis is placed on problem solving, critical thinking and logical reasoning, making connections, and using calculators.

    Prereq: Arith – HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACPL 65+, Next Gen 263+, ACT Math 18+ OR Arith Prep 10834109 OR Not pursuing a degree
  • Surveying 1
    10-057-106
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10057106
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces the use of an auto level, laser level and theodolite. Emphasis is on the fundamental concepts and principles of basic topographic surveying and mapping. Several computer programs are used to generate maps.

    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources 10057104 or 10057183, Ecology 10057109, NR Common Topics 10057143, Written Communication 10801195, College Mathematics 10804107
  • Wildlife Mgmt - Nongame and Hunted Species
    10-057-128
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10057128
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces wildlife ecology and management. The course focuses on habitat restoration and maintenance, deer management, wildlife damage control, ecological concepts and population dynamics.

    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources 10057104 or 10057183, Ecology 10057109, NR Common Topics 10057143, Written Communication 10801195, College Mathematics 10804107
  • Recreation Facilities Maintenance
    10-057-130
    3Credit
    81
    81
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 81
    • Outside Effort Hours: 81
    • Course Number: 10057130
    • Credits: 3.00

    Introduces general maintenance activities applied at recreation facilities through a combination of lecture, lab and fieldtrips. Planning and maintenance of various recreation trail types and facilities along with the operation and maintenance of chainsaws, brush saws and lawn care equipment.

    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources 10057104 or 10057183, Ecology 10057109, NR Common Topics 10057143, Written Communication 10801195, College Mathematics 10804107
  • Forestry 1
    10-057-132
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10057132
    • Credits: 3.00

    Covers tree and shrub identification (dendrology), forest mapping, stand inventory, basic forest ecology, silvicultural practices and timber types. This course prepares students to perform more specific job-related tasks in Forestry 2.

    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources 10057104 or 10057183, Ecology 10057109, NR Common Topics 10057143, Written Communication 10801195, College Mathematics 10804107
  • Soil and Water Conservation
    10-057-134
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10057134
    • Credits: 3.00

    Examines the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil in relation to water and wind erosion. The identification, planning and use of soil and water conservation practices are examined, and students study the relationship of soil fertility to conservation and management.

    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources 10057104 or 10057183, Ecology 10057109, NR Common Topics 10057143, Written Communication 10801195, College Mathematics 10804107
  • Environmental Water Quality
    10-057-136
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10057136
    • Credits: 3.00

    Examines the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of surface and groundwater. Water quality standards and regulations are discussed. Surveys of the various forms and sources of water pollutants are conducted, and water quality assessments, using biological indicators and chemical tests, are covered. The course includes a brief overview of the treatment process.

    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources 10057104 or 10057183, Ecology 10057109, NR Common Topics 10057143, Written Communication 10801195, College Mathematics 10804107: Coreq: General Chemistry 10806134
  • Surveying 2
    10-057-107
    3Credit
    108
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10057107
    • Credits: 3.00

    Acquaints the student to the open and closed traverse and the general methods utilized with the total station and data collector for field data collection. Computer software programs are used to help aid the student in map production.

    Prereq: Surveying 1 10057106
  • Fish Mgmt-Ichthyology,Limnology/Field Pract
    10-057-129
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10057129
    • Credits: 3.00

    Students will learn about fish identification and classification, and lakes and streams as a life environment. Field techniques and practices used in studying and managing fish will be presented. Several hands-on field experiences are conducted.

    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources 10057104 or 10057183, Ecology 10057109, NR Common Topics 10057143, Written Communication 10801195, College Mathematics 10804107
  • Natural Resources Co-op Experience
    10-057-142
    2Credit
    108
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 10057142
    • Credits: 2.00

    Enables the student to volunteer 80 hours of service to one or more natural resource agencies for approved job training. The student's progress is monitored by the instructor through direct communication with the participating agency. This course is taken in the fall semester of a student's final academic year.

    Prereq: Surveying 1 10057106
    Select a total of 6 credits from these options
  • Wastewater Management
    10-057-137
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A
    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10057137
    • Credits: 3.00
     Studies in waste treatment systems in detail, including the collection, handling and disposal of wastewaters and sludges. Laboratory work emphasizes the tests and methods used to evaluate the performance of treatment units.
    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources (10057104 or 10057183); Ecology (10057109); Written Communication (10801195); Coreq: General Chemistry (10806134)
  • Forestry 2
    10-057-133
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A
    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10057133
    • Credits: 3.00
     A continuation of Forestry 1 with studies of aerial photography applications, logging operations, lumber scaling and grading, fire weather and fire suppression, tree planting and seeding operations, forest diseases and insects of the lake states. It culminates with field trips to natural resource agencies to view the practices and principles learned during class.
    Prereq: Forestry 1 (10057132)
  • Soil and Water Conservation/Engineering
    10-057-135
    3Credit
    72
    90
    N/A
    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 90
    • Course Number: 10057135
    • Credits: 3.00
     Explores in greater detail soil and water conservation practices including planning, design, quantities, cost lists and field layout. Auto level, theodolite and laser level will be used throughout class. Field locations will help familiarize students with the standards and specifications used in the design of structural and vegetable erosion control practices. Proper construction and maintenance of these practices are stressed.
    Prereq: Surveying 1 10057106; Soil and Water Conservation 10057134
  • Forest Recreation Environmental Education
    10-057-131
    3Credit
    81
    81
    N/A
    • Instructional Hours: 81
    • Outside Effort Hours: 81
    • Course Number: 10057131
    • Credits: 3.00
     Emphasis will be creating and presenting environmental education activities to various audiences. The design and delivery of environmental curriculum is the focus and will be augmented with additional public presentations and volunteering at area environmental centers. Individual and group laboratory projects and presentations are required.
    Prereq: Exploring Natural Resources (10057104 or 10057183); Ecology (10057109); Written Communication (10801195)

    General Studies (20 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • Written Communication
    10-801-195
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10801195
    • Credits: 3.00

    Teaches the writing process which includes prewriting, drafting and revising. Through writing assignments, students analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on subject matter and content. Class sessions and assignments involve giving oral presentations and using computers.

    Prereq: HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACPL Read 54+/Sent 83+, Next Gen Read 250+/Sent 250+, ACT Read 18+/Engl 18+ OR Read Prep 10838105/Sent Prep 10831103 OR Not pursuing a degree
  • General Biology
    10-806-114
    4Credit
    90
    126

    • Instructional Hours: 90
    • Outside Effort Hours: 126
    • Course Number: 10806114
    • Credits: 4.00

    Introduces general biological concepts and principles. Emphasis is on cell structure and function, genetics, evolution and taxonomical relationships. Consideration is also given to diversity among the various kingdoms. This course emphasizes an environmental perspective and is suitable for students in Natural Resources, Early Childhood Education, Laboratory Science, Forensic Science and others interested in environmental biology.

    Prereq: HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACPL Read 54+/Sent 83+, Next Gen Read 250+/Sent 237+, ACT Read 18+/Engl 15+ OR Read Prep 10838105/Sent Prep 74851745 OR not pursuing a degree
  • Oral/Interpersonal Comm
    10-801-196
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10801196
    • Credits: 3.00

    Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.

    Prereq: HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACPL Read 54+/Sent 83+, Next Gen Read 250+/Sent 237+, ACT Read 18+/Engl 15+ OR Read Prep 10838105/Sent Prep 74851745 OR not pursuing a degree
  • General Chemistry
    10-806-134
    4Credit
    90
    126

    • Instructional Hours: 90
    • Outside Effort Hours: 126
    • Course Number: 10806134
    • Credits: 4.00

    Covers the fundamentals of chemistry. Topics include scientific method, problem-solving using quantitative, characteristics of matter, periodic relationships of elements, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, chemical equilibrium, analysis of chemical substances, characteristics of aqueous solutions, acids, bases, and gas laws.

    Prereq: Alg – HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACPL 51+, Next Gen 250+, ACT Math 18+ OR Alg Prep 10834109 OR College Tech Math 1 10804115 OR College Tech Math 1A 10804113 OR College Math 10804107 OR Math Common Topics 10804117; OR not pursuing a degree
  • Economics
    10-809-195
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10809195
    • Credits: 3.00

    This course is designed to give an overview of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international economics. Concepts include scarcity, resources, alternative economic systems, growth, supply and demand, monetary and fiscal policy, inflation, unemployment and global economic issues.

    Prereq: HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACPL Read 54+/Sent 83+, Next Gen Read 250+/Sent 237+, ACT Read 18+/Engl 15+ OR Read Prep 10838105/Sent Prep 74851745 OR not pursuing a degree
  • Intro to Psychology
    10-809-198
    3Credit
    54
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • Course Number: 10809198
    • Credits: 3.00

    Focuses on the theoretical foundation of human functioning and looks at learning, motivation, emotions, personality, deviance and pathology, physiological factors and social influences. Students consider the complexities of human relationships in personal, social and vocational settings.

    Prereq: HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACPL Read 54+/Sent 83+, Next Gen Read 250+/Sent 237+, ACT Read 18+/Engl 15+ OR Read Prep 10838105/Sent Prep 74851745 OR not pursuing a degree

    Suggested Electives (3 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • AutoCAD, Introduction to
    10-606-114
    1Credit
    27
    27
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 27
    • Outside Effort Hours: 27
    • Course Number: 10606114
    • Credits: 1.00

    Covers the very basics of AutoCAD - introduction to the user interface, basic drawing commands, basic editing commands, and basic viewing commands. This course will give the student a comfort level for working within the AutoCAD environment and the knowledge needed for more advanced CAD courses offered within the various degree programs.

  • Equipment Operation, Horticulture
    10-001-117
    2Credit
    54
    54
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 54
    • Outside Effort Hours: 54
    • Course Number: 10001117
    • Credits: 2.00

    Teaches students how to operate a variety of landscape equipment. Hands-on training will require the students to acquire an understanding of the safe operation of equipment. Focus will be on pre-operation, operation, and post-operation procedures and skills.

  • Wildfire Intro S130/S190/L180
    10-058-160
    2Credit
    45
    77
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 45
    • Outside Effort Hours: 77
    • Course Number: 10058160
    • Credits: 2.00

    Prepares new firefighters in basic firefighting skills and behavior factors that will aid them in the safe and effective control of wildland fires.

  • S212 Wildland Fire Chainsaws
    10-058-162
    1Credit
    36
    18
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 36
    • Outside Effort Hours: 18
    • Course Number: 10058162
    • Credits: 1.00

    Provides introduction to the function, maintenance and use of internal combustion engine-powered chainsaws and their tactical wildland fire application.

    Prereq: Wildfire Intro S130/S190/L180 (10058160 or 10057160) and Emergency Medical Responder (10531104) or First Responder (10531105) or current certification in basic First Aid and CPR or not pursuing a degree
  • Wildfire Equipment Operation
    10-058-188
    2Credit
    72
    36
    N/A

    • Instructional Hours: 72
    • Outside Effort Hours: 36
    • Course Number: 10058188
    • Credits: 2.00

    Operation of heavy equipment of hand tools used in wildland fire.

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