Ecosystem Management Technician

 

"The earth we abuse and the living things we kill, will, in the end, take their revenge; for in exploiting their presence we are diminishing our future." -- Marya Mannes, More in Anger

Be a part of the solution - as an Ecosystem Management Technician, you contribute to the health of ecosystems, minimizing the negative impact we have on the environment. Through careful consideration of the needs of society and the environment, you'll help governments, conservation groups, and wildlife organizations do environmentally sustainable planning for the future.

 

Program Highlights

Fleming's Ecosystem Management Technician program highlights a holistic approach to the management of human activity within ecosystems. You will study ecosystem composition, structure and function in wilderness, rural, and urban landscapes. You will develop a balanced, critical perspective toward current and future issues in resource management and conservation. We will prepare you for an exciting career that can take you where YOU want to go, either in your home community, in a wilderness environment, or across the globe.

You will acquire a broad range of technical skills and the flexibility to adapt to changing job requirements. You'll learn the principles of experimental design and research, and how to apply them to a project of your own. You will participate in the monitoring and assessment of aquatic and terrestrial habitats, conduct resource inventories and environmental sampling, and develop plans for the management of public and private landscapes. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is an essential ingredient in your Ecosystem Management Technician "toolbox", and you will learn how to use the technology to analyze ecosystems at a variety of scales.

The Ecosystem Management Program provides the student with a 2 week (80 hour) mandatory field placement.  This placement is designed to allow you to apply your skills, demonstrate your abilities and obtain valuable work experience that many employers are looking for.

 

Why Choose Fleming?

As a discipline, Ecosystem Management is on the leading edge of resource conservation in the 21st century - the future is now. The School of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences at the Frost Campus encourages small class sizes and provides state-of-the-art technology. Dedicated, award-winning faculty provide a challenging and dynamic learning environment in the heart of the Kawartha Lakes region. Not only will you learn about ecosystem science and the current techniques of sustainable resources management, you will also develop essential skills in communications, human relations, facilitation, problem solving, dispute resolution, and cultural awareness. These skills and knowledge are transferrable on a global scale.

Common First Semester
Students in our School’s diploma programs take the same courses for first semester after choosing and being accepted into one of our programs. This common focus exposes you to a variety of career options – and other programs. You will have the freedom to explore and obtain a multidisciplinary perspective, while you acquire a base of knowledge and fundamental skills.

Although students are accepted into a specific program for their first semester, the common first semester allows you to change direction if another program or career area is more appealing. Once you have successfully completed the common first semester, you can enter the program of your choice in second semester, subject to enrolment capacity.

 Aboriginal Emphasis Initiative
Fleming College's Aboriginal Emphasis Initative is an inclusive approach to providing more understanding of Aboriginal peoples, communities and nations. You will have an opportunity to take courses designed from an Aboriginal perspective with emphasis on Aboriginal peoples, history, spirituality and culture. See the Aboriginal Emphasis Initiative page for courses available in this program.

 

What it Takes to Succeed

• the ability to ask questions, solve problems and create sustainable plans
• an interest in understanding how ecosystems and humanity interact
• analytical and creative thinking
• excellent oral and written communication skills
• the ability to work as part of a team
• good organizational ability
• cultural awareness/sensitivity
• excellent interpersonal skills
•  volunteer or work experience in such areas as conservation, parks, greenspace projects, public education about the environment, or habitat restoration is an asset.

 

Career Opportunities

As a Technician, you'll find work in careers such as:

• resource management technician
• urban forest management
• Geomatics technician
• aquatic / terrestrial biologist
• environmental education
• land use planning
• restoration technician
• watershed technician
• environmental consultant, and others.

You'll work for conservation authorities, parks departments, private consulting firms, municipal/provincial/federal governments, non-governmental organizations, First Nations communities, or stewardship organizations. Positions can be found across Canada and around the world. Willingness to relocate for work, and taking the initiative to develop contacts in the field greatly enhances the opportunities available to you. Approximately 85 per cent of graduates find job opportunities upon graduation, and many more shortly thereafter.

 

Minimum Admission Requirements

OSSD with the majority of credits at the College (C) and Open (O) level, including:

• 2 College (C) English courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
• 2 College (C) Math courses (Grade 11 or Grade 12)

When (C) is the minimum course level for admission, (U) or (U/C) courses are also accepted.

Mature Students
If you are 19 years of age or older before classes start, and you do not possess an OSSD, you can write the Canadian Adult Achievement Test to assess your eligibility for admission.

* Students starting in January are required to attend classes over the summer semester.

 

Selection Process

 

Related Programs

Graduates of the Ecosystem Management Technician program may want to consider continuing their education another year to attain the Technologist diploma. You might also want to consider taking one of the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) programs - Applications Specialist, or Cartographic Specialist to enhance your skill set and career opportunities. Alternatively, you can obtain a dual diploma by taking another of our School's Technician programs, and can usually complete the second diploma with just two more semesters of study.

 

Additional Costs

Plan to spend about $925 in the first year and $525 in the second year for the cost of books, supplies and field camps.

 

University Transfer Agreements

• Athabasca University
• Griffith University, Queensland, Australia
• Royal Roads University - Victoria, B.C.
• University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Course	Hours
Semester 1
Environmental Leadership	45.00
Applied Mathematics in Natural Resource Sciences	45.00
Communicating Technical Information	45.00
Ecology and Environment	60.00
Ecosystem Skills	60.00
Environmental Leadership	45.00
Geospatial Techniques	45.00
Optional Courses:   Communications Plus 15.00
Semester 2
Ecology: Concepts and Linkages	45.00
Forest Measurement	45.00
Introductory Computing	45.00
Soil Studies	45.00
Technical Reporting	45.00
Trees and Shrubs Of Ontario	45.00
Wildlife Observation Skills	45.00
Semester 3
Aquatic Ecosystems	60.00
Introduction to Vector GIS	45.00
Natural Resources and the Law	45.00
Restoration Ecology	45.00
Statistics	45.00
Terrestrial Ecosystems	45.00
General Education Elective
Semester 4
Career Advancement Techniques	45.00
EM-Geomatics	45.00
Ecosystem Monitoring and Assessment	45.00
Environmental Issues: The Human Factor	45.00
Field Placement EMT	80.00
Human Relations	45.00
Nuisance Species Management Techniques	45.00
Urban Forest Science	45.00

Semester 1

Environmental Leadership

Course Number: NATR008

This course will enable students to develop a personal position and direct their career path within the context of the environmental and natural resource industry. A dynamic, interactive case study approach will be used to examine issues arising from environmental disputes and conflicts, and to develop an understanding of ecological sustainability.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Applied Mathematics in Natural Resource Sciences

Course Number: MATH063

This course will enable students to apply specific mathematical concepts and acquire foundation skills important in the Natural Resource and Environmental Sciences. It is designed to complement and reinforce learning within other first semester courses and program areas.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Communicating Technical Information

Course Number: COMM044

This course focuses on the development of fundamental writing and speaking skills, both individually and in teams, within the context of program and work needs in the environmental field. Also, students will be required to apply and to demonstrate fundamental research skills, including an analysis of library and Web resources pertaining to program-related topics. Assessment strategies will be tied closely to other common first semester courses.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Ecology and Environment

Course Number: ENVR020

Learn how nature works by studying the key components of the ecosystems in the Kawartha Lakes Region. Through field and lab exploration of wild life, landforms, forests, lakes, rivers and wetlands, students will see the connections between themselves, the environment and ecosystems that surround them.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Ecosystem Skills

Course Number: ECOS013

This course will focus on three areas of study: identification, field and lab skills. Students will identify and classify the living and non-living components of the specific ecosystems described in the Ecology and Environment (ENVR 20) course. Field skills to be developed include the ability to navigate through the natural environment and use a variety of ecosystem inventory techniques. Special emphasis will be placed on safe work habits in lab and field.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Environmental Leadership

Course Number: NATR008

This course will enable students to develop a personal position and direct their career path within the context of the environmental and natural resource industry. A dynamic, interactive case study approach will be used to examine issues arising from environmental disputes and conflicts, and to develop an understanding of ecological sustainability.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Geospatial Techniques

Course Number: GEOM036

This course is designed around the four pillars of Geomatics: Remote Sensing, Cartography, Surveying and GIS. Students will develop entry-level skills in data capture, surveying, (computer) drafting, principles of remote sensing, air photo interpretation, and in usage of representative Geomatics-related software.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Communications Plus

Course Number: COMM012

Communications Plus will provide individualized help in language and writing skills for students enrolled in Common First Semester Communicating Technical Information. This is a one-hour timetabled class in addition to the Communicating Technical Information course. Students who are recommended and/or elect to take Communications Plus will work on computer-based modules, and may receive assistance on seminar and lab writing assignments from all courses. No additional work is required other than the one class hour per week.

Units: 15.00
Hours: 15.00

Semester 2

Ecology: Concepts and Linkages

Course Number: ECOS014

Ecology: Concepts and Linkages introduces contemporary theory, ideology and practices of ecosystem management. Students use qualitative and quantitative methodology, historical context, and selected experiences to assemble ecological data and information into knowledge that functions to benefit ecosystems. The course integrates ecology, environmental and ecosystem health sciences to assist in the understanding and sequential application of ecosystem management practices.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Forest Measurement

Course Number: FSTY073

This course deals with specific measurements and assessment methods for forests. The course involves laboratory sessions and field trips. Measurement of tree height, tree diameter, basal area, land area, and tree volume is studied. The Canadian Fire Weather Index system is introduced. Fixed area sampling, point sampling, tree marking, and fuel loading are field trip topics.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Introductory Computing

Course Number: COMP345

Working in the Windows XP environment, this computer course introduces the student to computer basics (computer terminology, e-mail, Internet, file management) and the application and use of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software. Through the extensive use of hands-on activities, students will gain sufficient knowledge and experience to make productive use of computers as a tool in both college and workplace environments.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Soil Studies

Course Number: NATR041

This course provides an introduction to the physical, chemical and biological properties of soils. Students develop skills in the determination of soil textures, soil moisture, soil porosity, and other aspects using a variety of field and laboratory methods.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Technical Reporting

Course Number: COMM034

This course is an introduction to technical writing and speaking for students in the School of Environmental & Natural Resource Sciences. Students will write a formal technical report by applying research skills in the library and on the Internet, writing an outline and an introduction, documenting their sources of information in the APA style, editing and revising drafts of their reports, writing formal elements of the report, and integrating graphic presentations with text. In addition, they will present their reports orally, using appropriate audiovisual media, write a set of instructions in memo format, and be able to identify several common types of reports.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Trees and Shrubs Of Ontario

Course Number: FSTY050

This course deals with the identification of approximately 100 species of trees and shrubs of importance to those managing the forests resources of Ontario. Throughout the semester identification features for common trees and shrubs in both summer and winter condition are introduced and applied. A number of field trips are utilized to assist students with their identification skills. In the weekly lecture series topics such as tree growth, reproduction, photosynthesis, respiration, forest ecology and uses of trees will be introduced. At the completion of the course students will have a sound working knowledge of dendrology. The skills introduced in this semester may then be used in following semesters when working with Forest Ecosystem Classification, Restoration Ecology, Conservation Planning and other habitat management situations.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Wildlife Observation Skills

Course Number: FIWI041

This course is an introduction to a range of skills in wildlife observation. A variety of wildlife species may be present in an environment despite not being seen. Important skills include visual and auditory identification of wildlife signs. The primary emphasis in this course will be on identification of wildlife signs such as tracks, trail patterns, scat, skulls, impacts on the environment, bird song and amphibian calls. When ever possible it is important to achieve visual observation and documentation of wildlife. Photography will be examined as a tool to document wildlife and their signs. Studies of wildlife observation technology will include an evaluation of binoculars and spotting scopes. Wildlife observation projects and groups will be reviewed including the Christmas Bird Count and breeding bird surveys. Lab instruction will be augmented with field trips to observe signs of local wildlife and when possible to document actual wildlife sightings.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 3

Aquatic Ecosystems

Course Number: ECOS003

Students taking this course will develop skills, knowledge, and attitude in the management of lake, river, wetland and marine ecosystems. They will apply current theories of ecosystem management to aquatic environments by studying abiotic, biotic, and cultural components at a variety of spatial and temporal scales.

Units: 60.00
Hours: 60.00

Introduction to Vector GIS

Course Number: GEOM034

This is an introductory level course in Vector GIS. Students will be exposed to various components of Vector GIS, including co-ordinate systems, map projections, data sources and data structures. Students will also learn how to produce maps in order to effectively communicate geographic information. Data collection techniques will be explored through the use of a GPS receiver.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Natural Resources and the Law

Course Number: LAWS056

This course provides an introduction to laws that have an impact on the use of natural resources in Ontario. The course will deal with an overview of the legal system, the underlying principles of gaining compliance, and specific legislation that may be encountered in the natural resources field.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Restoration Ecology

Course Number: ECOS010

A course to develop skill, knowledge and attitudes in restoration and preservation of ecosystems. Students will develop scientific knowledge of current methodologies and technologies in restoration.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Statistics

Course Number: MATH025

This course covers data organization, the basic statistical parameters, confidence intervals for means, the normal distribution, hypothesis testing (Chi-square, 'F', 't' and Anova), and regression analysis.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Terrestrial Ecosystems

Course Number: ECOS011

Students taking this course will develop skills, knowledge, and attitude in management techniques for terrestrial ecosystems, including forest management planning on crown and private lands. They will apply current theories of ecosystem management to the terrestrial environment through study of abiotic, biotic, and cultural components. Completion of this course, along with Aquatic Ecosystems (ECOS 3), will prepare students for a wide range of employment opportunities in the field of ecosystem management.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Semester 4

Career Advancement Techniques

Course Number: NATR011

This course focuses on public speaking, and the production and use of visual materials. Videotaping will be used to evaluate presentation delivery and stage presence. Students will also develop skills in the chairing and minute taking of a meeting, as well as conducting and participating in an effective interview experience, and the development of a career portfolio.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

EM-Geomatics

Course Number: GEOM016

The course examines elementary principles of data acquisition, data management, and spatial analysis, using the raster data model. Laboratory exercises will allow students to become familiar with the operation of GIS software commonly used in the field. The students will be exposed to various hands-on projects/applications involving the use of GIS software.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Ecosystem Monitoring and Assessment

Course Number: ECOS007

This course provides students with technical skills and knowledge related to monitoring and assessing ecosystem health and change in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. An emphasis will be placed on scientific methodology, report-writing skills, and experimental design principles. Students will also become familiar with the federal and provincial Environmental Assessment acts.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Environmental Issues: The Human Factor

Course Number: GNED015

This course introduces students to the non-technical aspects of environmental issues: historical, cultural, ethical, political, and economic. It is concerned with how environmental issues enter public consciousness and how they are subsequently dealt with in the Canadian and global communities. Students will be encouraged to adopt a balanced, analytical approach as the basis for developing and expressing their own viewpoints as informed citizens and technicians/technologists.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Field Placement EMT

Course Number: FLPL108

This 80-hour (2-week) course will take place following the completion of Semester 4. The student will be engaged in an environmental project with an environmental organization.

Units: 80.00
Hours: 80.00

Human Relations

Course Number: MGMT005

This course examines self-awareness, interpersonal relations, motivation, stress, small group dynamics, and organizational behaviour. Particular attention will be paid to leadership and conflict management in employment situations. Contemporary developments reshaping human relations will be introduced for study and discussion.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Nuisance Species Management Techniques

Course Number: FIWI023

This course examines the life history, behaviour and habits of nuisance plant and animal species. Management techniques will include methodology, materials, equipment, and strategies used for repelling or removing nuisance species. It will also explore laws and hazards of repelling or removing such species and the risks to humans, plants, and animals. The lethal and non-lethal methods of removal will be discussed.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00

Urban Forest Science

Course Number: FSTY060

This course introduces the students to tree anatomy, tree physiology, urban soil conditions, tree installation and the impact of construction on tree health. Field trips deal with tree selection, tree pruning, tree reaction to wounding and an introduction to hazard tree assessment.

Units: 45.00
Hours: 45.00