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Conservation Planning-Part 1

Course Introduction 

This is Part 1 of the conservation planning training offered by the USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).  The overall goal of Part 1 is to introduce you to the concepts, philosophy, and process of conservation planning.  This part will not equip you to perform the job of a conservation planner.  Parts 2 and 3 are designed to provide you the field experience so that you can become proficient as a conservation planner.

Part 1 of the Conservation Planning Course contains Modules 1 - 5, which cover the background and framework for conservation planning. These modules are:

  • Module One - How NRCS Will Do Business: Sets the stage for the course by providing a synopsis of the history of NRCS and the conservation partnership, and describes how we will do business in the conservation planning arena.
  • Module Two - Planning Policy and Guidance: Provides highlights of conservation planning and related policy, as well as information on programs and how they relate to the planning process.
  • Module Three - Key Elements of Conservation Planning: Covers the key elements of conservation planning and an introduction to the three-phase, nine-step planning process.
  • Module Four - Conservation Planning Environment Components and Interrelationships: Covers the conservation planning environment, including the components and relationships of the natural resources, cultural resources, economic considerations, social considerations, and policy issues.
  • Module Five - Resource Management Systems: Covers resource management systems (RMS) and the tools used to develop RMSs.

You will encounter review questions throughout the program.  These questions relate to the most significant portions of the content.

A test will be administered at the end of Module 5.  You must answer 80% of the questions correctly to receive credit for the course. 

As you go through the modules, please make note of any questions or comments that you have on the material. Part 2 of the course will begin with a short review of Part 1 and a discussion of your concerns. However, if you have any questions or comments about the course contents please direct them to James Ramsey in the Conservation Operations Division. Please direct questions that are specific to state policy or operations to the appropriate personnel in your state.

If you experience problems with linked sites, downloading documents or other issues with the operation of the program, please contact the Webmaster.

When and how Parts 2 and 3 of this training will be conducted is the responsibility of each state. You should check with the appropriate person in your state for that information. An overview of the entire Conservation Planning Course is linked below.

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Adobe Acrobat DocumentOverview of Conservation Planning Course

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