Natural Environment Technology (Natural Heritage Management and Interpretation)

Program Objectives

The aim of the Natural Environment Technology program is to prepare students to practise the occupation of natural environment technician mainly in the fields of land use planning; rational natural resource use and development; and interpretation, information, education, protection, monitoring, restoration and conservation of the natural environment. In this program of study, the term “natural environment” includes terrestrial, aquatic and wetland ecosystems and the resources derived from water, air, soil, vegetation and wildlife.

The work of a natural environment technician is performed with a view to sustainable development. This is best achieved through the integrated management of an area’s diverse natural components. Such an approach takes into account the many different functions, resources and users of the area concerned, along with the criteria for sustainable development, when selecting scenarios for its development. To do this, natural environment technicians must broaden their field of investigation, work in partnership, gather a variety of data and master the techniques required to manage the area’s resources and habitats.

Specialization C: Natural Heritage Management and Interpretation

Natural heritage management and interpretation technicians work in the field of ecotourism, and perform activities involving natural and cultural heritage management and the development and presentation of heritage activities. They may also be involved in natural environmental research, management, planning and conservation work. In addition, they may carry out inventories of biological, physical and socio-cultural resources, conduct site characterizations for heritage development through management and interpretation activities, produce interpretation materials and equipment, promote and present interpretation activities, ensure that materials and equipment are functional, manage projects involving the development of a natural and cultural heritage site, develop ecotourism infrastructures and enforce current regulations at heritage sites.