Essentials of Natural Resource and Environmental Protection (MENREP)

​This course provides a basic introduction to the concept of natural resources and environmental protection. It will introduce students to the different types of natural resources that exist in BC and how they relate to what we describe as "the environment." Students will gain a basic understanding of which governance bodies are responsible for managing various types of resources in BC and Canada, and will learn how these resources interact with and contribute to the provincial economy. Students will learn about some of the career trajectories that can be explored as an environmental professional.
Prerequisite(s):

• Grade 10 Math or equivalent AND Basic English Proficiency AND Competency with Computer.

The Field Notes, Mensuration, and Data collection for Environmental Professionals nano-module is foundational for the development of the skills required when working in the Natural Resource industry. Participants will review key mathematical calculations, identify standard field equipment for data collection, develop procedures on setting up photo point monitoring, as well as how to record and display field notes in an effective and concise manner.
Prerequisite(s):

• No prerequisites are required for this course.

​Maps and mapping are important components of environmental assessment projects. Maps contain a large amount of information and data and, for that reason, are then useful for summarizing project data and findings. The Maps and Mapping for Field Technicians nano-module will provide participants with a basic understanding of the skills required to identify key features and interpret map data.
Prerequisite(s):

• Grade 10 Math or equivalent and Basic English Proficiency and Competency with Computer.

​Human-induced climate change is a global concern. Reducing the emission of greenhouse gases is essential to slow down the unprecedented speed at which the temperature of our planet is increasing. Although decreasing combustion of fossil fuels is indispensable to achieve this goal, other actions are also critical. Specifically, Nature-based solutions are increasingly been adopted as an approach to deal with the current climate and biodiversity crises. According to the IUCN, Nature-based solutions are "actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural and modified ecosystems that address societal challenges effectively and adaptively, simultaneously providing human well-being and biodiversity benefits". Soil conservation and reforestation are good examples of these actions. Did you know that both can increase carbon sequestration and food security? Or that by restoring estuaries and wetlands we simultaneously protect water quality, fisheries, plan for adaptation to sea level rise and sequester carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems (also known as blue carbon)? Through these and other examples you will learn what Nature-based solutions are and how to apply the principles of conserving, restoring and managing natural resources to combat climate change, protect biodiversity and increase resilience in our communities.
Prerequisite(s):

• Grade 10 Math or equivalent and Basic English Proficiency and Competency with Computer.

​This nano-module introduces the management of areas designated as parks and protected areas. We will define what a protected area is, the types and roles of protected areas and some of the processes for establishing protected areas. We will introduce the benefits that flow from having protected areas. We will also introduce the dual mandate of parks and the concept of ecological integrity. We will review Canada's system of protected areas and our commitments under the UN Convention on Biodiversity (the Aichi targets). Using examples we will look at how protected areas are managed in British Columbia.
Prerequisite(s):

• Grade 10 Math or equivalent and Basic English Proficiency and Competency with Computer.

​The Environmental Monitoring nano-module will provide context to the role of an environmental monitor and review typical duties of an environmental monitor. This nano-module will assist in environmental monitoring basics for a wide variety of applications throughout Western Canada, such as stream crossing installations, pipeline development, and land development.
Prerequisite(s):

• Grade 10 Math or equivalent and Basic English Proficiency and Competency with Computer.

​In this nano-module, you will be introduced to the structure and function of government decision making and its effects on society and natural resources. You will become familiar with the main pieces of policy and law that govern resources in British Columbia, as well as the players making those decisions. You will be introduced to both Canadian colonial approaches and principles of resources governance by First Nations. This module is taught by Alexia Constantinou, with an emphasis on critical thinking activities and introduction to new themes by expert guest instructors.
Prerequisite(s):

• Grade 10 Math or equivalent and Basic English Proficiency and Competency with Computer.