Natural Resources

Natural Resources Concentration

Are you interested in the outdoors? Are you fascinated by trees or wildlife? Do you enjoy fishing, hunting, or camping? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then this concentration is for you! Our students graduate with the skills to identify birds, waterfowl, trees, and fish. Additionally, they learn how to write a wildlife management plan, complete boating safety training (earning a state-safe boating certificate), and perform fish sampling techniques.

Courses Offered to Juniors and Seniors:

Wildlife Management
In this course, students learn about the ecology of forests and how it affects wildlife. Topics include waterfowl, game birds, bats, and conservation law enforcement. Students will install and monitor wood duck boxes in local wetlands.

Forestry
This course explores the history of forestry in the United States and the development of modern forest management. Students will learn about the anatomy and functions of trees, their benefits, and forest products. Practical experience includes making maple syrup in our sugarhouse. By the end of the course, students will be able to identify many local trees and shrubs.

Aquaculture
This course provides an in-depth look into aquaculture and semi-aquatic species. Students will learn about fish biology, growing techniques, water quality, and harvest methods. A trip to the state fish hatchery is included, along with studies on reptiles, amphibians, and environmental issues affecting aquatic species.

North American Wildlife
Focusing on the flying and crawling creatures in our environment, students learn about identification, anatomy, niches, and benefits of various species. Hands-on experience includes working with a real beehive and understanding honey production, as well as studying ticks and Lyme Disease.

Possible Career Opportunities:

• Wildlife Biologist

• Forester

• Conservation Officer

• Park Ranger

• Fisheries Biologist