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Natural Resources

Instructor Meghan Luther

Instructor

Meghan Luther
meghan.luther@ncsuvt.org
802-334-2556 x4004

A green circular logo with a saw blade design, featuring three houses, trees, and the text 'NATURAL RESOURCES'.

  • Natural Resources students showing younger students the sugar house.
  • Natural Resources students standing with sugaring equipment.
  • Natural Resources students and Instructor.
  • A Natural Resources student helping younger students tap a tree.
  • Natural Resources students in the woods.
  • GRADES 10-12 | 240 MINUTES DAILY

    Text on a blue background showing 6 credits with 1 science credit embedded.

  • VTSU AGR 1061 - Burls to Boards 

     3 credits

    Articulation agreement with Paul Smiths

    • ACT National Career Readiness Certificate
    • Game of Logging Chainsaw Safety (Levels 1- 4)
    • National Safe Tractor and Machine Operator- NSTMOP
    • Solo Wilderness First Aid
    • VT GIS/GPS Badge (Level 1)

Class Overview

This program will introduce students to various disciplines and skills involved in natural resource management careers.  The focus is broad, however specific proficiencies in several skills will be included: tractor operation, equipment maintenance, gathering and analyzing inventory data, management planning, map use, maple syrup production, sawmilling, timber harvesting and chainsaw use, wildlife management, and arboricultural techniques. Students will learn and practice the ecological principles that help them understand the methods and importance of being a good steward. The goals of this program are:

  • Foster an understanding of the complexity inherent in natural systems
  • Appreciate the interrelatedness between and within the geological, hydrological, and biological components of local forest, aquatic, and agricultural ecosystems
  • Build an awareness of the connection between good management practices and the resulting social, environmental, and economic benefits
  • Introduce students to a variety of careers in natural resources
  • Provide students with the vocabulary, conceptual understanding, technical knowledge, and physical skills necessary to pursue natural resource careers
  • Engage students in hands-on project-based learning activities to develop safe and effective working practices
  • Enhance students’ transferable employment practices and values
  • Engage students with their local community by providing opportunities for field trips and community service projects

Program Advisory Committee

A blue background with a white network of six connected people icons and the word 'MEMBERS' in green.

  • Allen Yale: Forest Landowner
  • Parker Castle: NEK Guides/fromer NCCC student
  • Rebecca Hunt: Community Member
  • Colleen Goodridge: Sawmill Owner
  • Jared Nunery: County Forester
  • Trevor Evans: Forest Landowner
  • Ian Irwin: Logger, GOL instructor/forest landowner