Natural Resources
About the Program -
Students studying in the Natural Resources program at the Coshocton County Career Center learn to recognize and understand our region and country’s natural resources and the relationship and effect of agricultural and civilian/commercial development. Students will learn about the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, including its mission, organization and function.
Primary instruction includes a hands-on study of wildlife, including birds and fish, Also included is an ecological study of North American forests, with a special emphasis on local properties and the native varieties of folliage and wildlife that inhabit them. Additionally students will complete the DNR-Watercraft Division’s Motorboat Safety course and the Hunter Safety and Trapper Education courses.
Related instruction includes topigraphical mapping, Dendrology, soil and water conservation topics, and parks and recreational services.
Lab nstruction includes maintaining forests, keeping/breeding pheasants and landscaping and grounds maintenance, including the improvement of forest properties. Also included are various soil and water conservation projects. Secondary activities include light construction, tree climbing and small engine repair tasks.
Length of Program: 2 Years
Partnerships with: Zane State College and Hocking College
Career Pathways: Wildlife Officer, Park Ranger, Hunting Guide, Forest Technician, Wildlife Biologist, Naturalist, Environmentalist, Arboretum Specialist, Forest Ranger, Landscaper, Surveyor, Tree Trimmer.
Early Placement -
If, during your junior year, you have maintained an acceptable GPA and attendance record, you may qualify for an early-placement work option during your senior year.
Placed in a job through this program, you will have the chance to practice the skills you have learned during your first year of study. Depending on your ability and interest, you might work at a wildlife refuge, a city park or at a retail sporting goods or hunting outfitter or for the Ohio DNR, in some capacity. This work experience will compose a large part of your final lab grade. Not only will you receive program credit, but you will also have the opportunity to build employability skills, garner trust and a positive work reference from your employer.
Further Education -
As a Career Center graduates do, you will find that the time you invested in the Natural Resources program may earn you pre-approved college credit.
Because graduates of the Natural Resources program have completed and passed the three certification courses offered by the Department of Natural Resources – Hunter Safety, Trapper Education and Motorboat Safety – students are able to receive 3 semester hour college credits. This makes the cost of attaining an associates or 4-year degree in the field of Natural Resources more affordable for these individuals. Some employers will even pay for their employees to earn their degrees!
Colleges which participate (articulate) with the Coshocton County Career Center for these credits include Zane State College and Hocking College.
Alumni Update -
“Coming to the Career Center was a great decision for me. I got to practice my trade and develop experience in a field that I really enjoy. My skills definietly helped my branch out and land my first job in the industry. The Natural Resources program is a great fit for anyone who enjoys forestry and wildlife.”
- Spencer Thomas, 2007 Natural Resources Program Completer, Whitetail Deer Hunting Guide at IMB Outfitters, Macon, Missouri
Associations -
Future Farmers of America (FFA) Involvement in FFA will give you an opportunity to improve your leadership and interpersonal skills and to compete in local, regional, state and national skills contests.
