Fundamentals of Conservation Planning
A five-day course that narrows in on the importance of conservation planning and an introduction to the skillsets used to create detailed and effective conservation plans. Based on the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Process 9- Step Conservation Process, a cohort of students will walk through these important steps using real-world scenarios.
Hands-on Experience
This program has been developed to maximize the learning experience through hands-on experiences, group problem-solving, and the use of real-world examples. Participants will increase their capacity for skills in resource identification, surveying, soil properties, mapping, and more.
Communication
From starting a conservation plan to implementing the plan, communication is one of the most important pieces of this process. A conservationist must understand the future of farming operations, the objectives of the landowner, working with contractors, and everything in between. Attendees will leave with a toolkit for communication strategies.
Mentorship
Early career conservationists need to learn skillsets throughout their careers, therefore, this program integrates mentorship throughout the week and within every activity to help provide a real-world perspective and guidance throughout the learning process.
Registrater Today!
Want to be a part of the 2026 Fundamentals of Conservation Planning? Join us on May 11-15 in Waynesville, NC, at the Mountain Research Station Facility.
Programming Specific to NC Best Management Practices
The location for this opportunity rotates annually between the mountain region during even years, with a focus in pastureland management, and the central region during the odd years, where the focus is on cropland practices. Participants are encouraged to participate in two years of this course to maximize learning objectives between two different settings and to hone in on the important skillsets learned during this program.
NRCS CP-2 Equivalency
The NC Natural Resources Conservation Service recognizes this course as a Conservation Planning Course: Part 2, Modules 6-8, for individuals seeking certification in conservation planning. For more information about becoming a Certified Conservation Planner, please visit the National Conservation Planning Partnership Website and contact your local NRCS Conservationist.
