Frequently Asked Questions

What is Conservation and Restoration Ecology?

Conservation and Restoration Ecology are complementary approaches to managing healthy, functioning natural systems, through both working to protect natural systems from degradation (Conservation) and striving to recover systems that have been degraded (Restoration).

The core of the major teaches students to use ecological principles to conserve and restore terrestrial systems (forests and rangelands) that are threatened or have been damaged or eliminated through overuse, neglect or disaster.

What type of students study Conservation and Restoration Ecology?

Students who …

  • Enjoy working outdoors.
  • Are interested in conserving and restoring healthy natural ecological systems.
  • Want a degree that has a broad natural resources sciences foundation that has the flexibility to design a unique degree that fits the student's unique goals.
  • Want excellent preparation for graduate school.

What do Conservation and Restoration Ecology majors study?

  • Solid foundation in biological sciences, soil science, chemistry, and math.
  • Ecology of wildland plants and animals.
  • Techniques to monitor, assess, preserve, and restore these ecosystems.
  • Policy and other human dimensions of natural resource management.
  • With guidance from an advisor, Conservation and Restoration Ecology majors develop an individualized plan for their Program Electives that prepares them for their unique, personal career goals.

What type of jobs do graduates get?

  • Working for an environmental consulting company on permitting of and restoration following energy development in Wyoming.
  • Bureau of Land Management Botanist.
  • Restoring fire damaged rangelands for Bureau of Land Management or USDA Forest Service.
  • Working for private land reclamation companies.
  • Aquatic invasive species biologist for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.
  • Working for a non-governmental organization involved in community-based conservation.
  • Studying black bear – human conflicts in Colorado.
  • Member of congressional natural resources staff.