May 08, 2024  
2024-25 Catalog 
    
2024-25 Catalog

Restoration Ecology


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Program Coordinator Scott Moss

There is a growing need for training in restorative ecology in natural areas, wetlands and urban environments. Students in this program will learn to repair damaged land, enhance habitat improve ecosystem services, and to manage these systems for conservation and sustainability.

Combining restorative ecology skills development with general education courses gives students a firm foundation in basic academic skills as well as skills that are critical to work in conservation and the emerging field of restoration ecology.

Students will learn basic ecological inventory and assessment, how to manage and restore natural areas, and design, establish, and manage native plant and animal communities.  Additionally, students will acquire skills and techniques in managing wetlands, creating green spaces, and working in the urban interface by establishing and cultivating urban gardens, using green roofs and walls, rain gardens, and bioswales.

The curriculum places emphasis on development of a common set of skills centered on environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable practices, as well as the acquisition of critical thinking, communication, and problem solving skills.

Program Learning Objectives

  1. Develop plans for restoring ecosystems from design through long-term maintenance programs
  2. Identify common native plant communities, their conservation concerns, and methods of stewardship required to keep them functional
  3.  Prepare for and earn key professional certifications recognized by industry employers including prescribed fire, herbicide application, chainsaw safety, and OSHA 10 safety, and career specific first aid
  4. Demonstrate an ability to apply common horticultural techniques in the growth and propagation of plants for restoration, landscaping, and research
  5. Describe the broader science and application of environmental science and sustainable practice to a career in conservation, restoration ecology, horticulture, or related fields


Restoration Ecology - ECOL.AAS


 Associate in Applied Science Degree

Total: 17 Credit Hours


Total: 12 Credit Hours


Third Semester


Total: 15-18 Credit Hours


Fourth Semester


Total: 16-20 Credit Hours


Total credit hours required for the A.A.S. in Restoration Ecology: 60


 


Restoration Ecology - ECOL.CP


Certificate of Proficiency

Requirements:


Total: 30 Credit Hours


Approved Restoration Ecology Electives


Conservation Specialty


Soil and Water Conservation Specialty


Sustainable Landscaping Specialty


Total credit hours required for the Certificate of Proficiency in Restoration Ecology: 30


 


Field Technician - ECOL/FLDTCH.CC


Certificate of Completion

Requirements:


Total credit hours required for the Certificate of Completion in Field Technician: 16


 


Green Roof Specialist - ECOL/GRNRF.CC


Certificate of Completion

Total credit hours required for the Certificate of Completion in Green Roof Specialist: 11


 


Storm Water Management - ECOL/STWR.CC


Certificate of Completion

Total credit hours for the Certificate of Completion in Storm Water Management: 6


 


Sustainable Urban Horticulture - ECOL/SUST.CC


Certificate of Completion

Total credit hours required for the Certificate of Completion in Sustainable Urban Horticulture: 13


 

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