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College of Natural Sciences

225 Holdsworth Natural Resources Center

Phone: (413) 545-2665
Website: http://eco.umass.edu/

Head of Department: Professor Curtice R. Griffin. Professors Averill, Barten, Elkinton, Finn, Fuller, Kelty, Kittredge, McGarigal, Ryan; Associate Professors Clouston, Kane, Randhir, Schweik, Warren; Assistant Professors Bradley, Danylchuk, Jordaan, Hoque, Milman, Whiteley; Research Professor Lutcavage; Extension Professor Vandriesche; Extension Associate Professors Damery, Jackson; Extension Assistant Professors Catanzaro, Harper, Weil; Senior Lecturers Picking, Schreyer; Lecturers Nicolson, Stinson

The department offers three undergraduate programs leading to the B.S. degree: 1) Building and Construction Technology, 2) Environmental Science, and 3) Natural Resources Conservation. The Building Construction Technology major offers practical skills, management training, and hands-on experience to prepare students for career employment in sustainable design and construction. The Environmental Science major employs an interdisciplinary approach, teaching students how to meet the challenges of creating a safe and healthy environment and how to recognize and control the effects of pollution and environmental stress on ecosystems. The Natural Resources Conservation major provides students with a unique opportunity to specialize in one of six academic concentrations: Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Fisheries Ecology and Conservation, Forest Ecology and Conservation, Urban Forestry and Arboriculture, Water Resources, and Environmental Conservation. In addition, the department offers a two-year Associate of Science degree program in Arboriculture and Community Forestry through the Stockbridge School (details of which appear in the Stockbridge section of this Guide and also in the College of Natural Sciences section).

The Department of Environmental Conservation has one of the most comprehensive academic programs in natural resources and environmental conservation in the United States. The undergraduate programs integrate the study of the natural and built environments with the goal of providing comprehensive training and stewardship in conservation and management of natural resources. The academic focus extends from the ecology and management of wild animal populations, trees, forests, watersheds, and landscapes to the physical, social, and policy aspects of conservation involving urban forests, human habitat, and sustainable building. The study of biology, ecology, sociology, policy, engineering, building science, and resource management encompasses concepts and applications related to rural, suburban, and urban environments. The unifying focus of all these activities is on the stewardship and management of healthy and sustainable ecosystems that provide important human and community benefits.

Many graduates seek professional employment in conservation organizations, environmental consulting firms, and the green industry, while others choose a major because of their personal commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. Environmental Conservation graduates are also prepared for graduate and professional certification programs.