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Printed on 7/15/2025

Natural Resources Technician

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10-057-1 Associate Degree (AAS) Part Time, Full Time 66 Credits Financial Aid Eligible 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**
    Early College Credit Options
    Prior Learning Credit Eligibility
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057143 - Natural Resources Common Topic

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057106 - Surveying 1
  • 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: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ANY of the following options:

    • COMMUNIC 10801136 - English Composition 1

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057143 - Natural Resources Common Topic

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057143 - Natural Resources Common Topic

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057143 - Natural Resources Common Topic

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057143 - Natural Resources Common Topic

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057143 - Natural Resources Common Topic

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is in progress in Conservation Agronomist (20-057-6) Program of Study
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057143 - Natural Resources Common Topic

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • SCIENCE 10806134 - General Chemistry

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is in progress in Conservation Agronomist (20-057-6) Program of Study
  • 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.

  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057106 - Surveying 1
  • 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: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics
  • 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.

  • College Mathematics
    10-804-107
    3Credit
    54
    108

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

    This course reviews key math concepts in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, measurement, and data. Topics include simplifying algebraic expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities with one variable, proportions, and percent applications, and working with geometric figures.  It covers the Pythagorean Theorem, trigonometric ratios, and unit conversions between U.S. customary and metric systems. Data analysis focuses on organizing and summarizing data, central tendency, and measures of dispersion. Emphasis is on problem-solving, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    • Accuplacer Arithmetic 263+ OR HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACT Math 18+ OR Arithmetic Level 2 Coursework

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
    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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication

    Coreq: Student has completed or is simultaneously enrolling in ALL of the following:

    • SCIENCE 10806134 - General Chemistry
  • 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: Student has completed or is process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057106 - Surveying 1

    • NATURE 10057134 - Soil and Water Conservation

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is in progress in Conservation Agronomist (20-057-6) Program of Study
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057109 - Ecology

    • NATURE 10057183 - Exploring Natural Resources

    • COMMUNIC 10801195 - Written Communication
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    • NATURE 10057132 - Forestry 1

    General Studies (20 Credits)

    Course Title
    Course Number
    Credits
    Instructional Hours
    Outside Effort Hours**
    Early College Credit Options
    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

    Develops writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on subject matter and content. Also develops critical reading and thinking skills through the analysis of a variety of written documents.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • General Biology
    10-806-114
    4Credit
    90
    126

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

    This course introduces general biological concepts and principles.  It emphasizes cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, taxonomical relationships, and the diversity of life.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • General Chemistry
    10-806-134
    4Credit
    108
    108

    • Instructional Hours: 108
    • Outside Effort Hours: 108
    • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ANY of the following options:

    • Accuplacer Algebra 250+ OR HS GPA 2.75+ OR ACT Math 18+ OR Algebra Level 1 Coursework

    • MATH 10804107 - College Mathematics

    • MATH 10804113 - College Technical Math 1A

    • MATH 10804115 - College Technical Math 1

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • 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: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
  • Intro to Psychology
    10-809-198
    3Credit
    54
    108

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

    This science of psychology course is a survey of multiple aspects of behavior and mental processes. It provides an overview of topics such as research methods, theoretical perspectives, learning, cognition, memory, motivation, emotions, personality, abnormal psychology, physiological factors, social influences, and development.

    Prereq: Student has completed or is in process of completing ALL of the following:

    OR ALL of the following:

    • Student is not in progress in Associate Degree, Apprenticeship, or Technical Diploma (31 or 32 level)
×

Expected Competencies

For more information visit our Credit For Prior Learning page.
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Eligible Dual Credit Course

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.


  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.
  • Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

Process:

As part of the annual course planning, students and families should meet with their High School Guidance Counselor to discuss future college and career goals. This conversation will help identify Dual Credit courses that best align with specific pathways.

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Recommended Start College Now Course

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

×

Eligible Dual Credit & Recommended Start College Now Course:

What is Dual Credit?

FVTC courses taught at the high school by certified high school teachers. These teachers receive mentorship from FVTC faculty to ensure alignment in competencies, curriculum, and assessments.

  • Students earn both high school and college credits, with grades applying to both transcripts.
  • There is no cost to the school district or family.

**Dual Credit course availability varies by high school based on factors such as lab space, equipment, and teacher qualifications.

What is Start College Now?

Qualified public-school juniors and seniors may enroll in college level classes at FVTC or online, if a comparable course is not offered within their district.

Student Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must have parent/guardian approval.
  • Must meet all course entry requirements.
  • Must be in good academic standing with an acceptable disciplinary record.

Application Process:

Interested students should consult their High School Guidance Counselor to explore course options and complete a “Start College Now” application. Applications must be submitted to High School Counselors by March 1st for fall courses and October 1st for spring courses. If approved by the school board, the cost is covered by the high school.

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N/A

This course is not available for Dual Credit or Start College Now due to factors such as course rigor, necessary equipment, and prerequisite requirements.