Colorado's Natural Resources pathway prepares students for careers managing Colorado's forests, water resources, wildlife, and conservation areas. The state's natural resource heritage and outdoor economy provide essential context and work-based learning opportunities.
Students study forest ecology, wildlife management, water resource management, conservation practices, and environmental compliance. They conduct field surveys, analyze data, and develop management plans through partnerships with state agencies and conservation organizations.
Graduates work as resource managers, wildlife specialists, conservation coordinators, or environmental technicians. Many pursue degrees in forestry, environmental science, or natural resource management, while others enter roles with state agencies or conservation organizations.
Natural Resources at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Colorado develops natural resources standards in partnership with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado State Forest Service, and Colorado State University. Standards emphasize both conservation science and sustainable resource management.
Students complete field-based assessments in forest inventory, wildlife identification, water quality testing, and resource planning. The framework incorporates current conservation and management practices.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Natural Resources Fundamentals |
| Forest and Wildlife Management |
| Water Resources and Conservation Planning |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓Certified Landscape Technician
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓NOCTI Agriculture Mechanics
- ✓NOCTI Agricultural Production
- ✓ServSafe Food Handler
- ✓ServSafe Manager
- ✓Certified Veterinary Assistant
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Resource Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $44,360 - $60,410
Wildlife Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $66,660 - $92,730
Resource Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $86,660 - $188,290
Conservation Director
ExperiencedSalary range: $66,660 - $92,730
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students work with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, national forests, state land management, conservation organizations, and environmental agencies throughout Colorado.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in National FFA Organization, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Colorado CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Colorado Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Colorado's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Colorado standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Colorado
Environmental Services Systems
Colorado's Environmental Services Systems pathway prepares students for careers in environmental remediation, waste management, and environmental compliance. Colorado's environmental regulations and growing green economy create opportunities. Students develop competency in environmental assessment, remediation techniques, waste management, environmental compliance, and sustainability practices. They gain hands-on experience through environmental projects and partnerships. Graduates work as environmental technicians, compliance specialists, or sustainability coordinators. Many pursue advanced environmental science education or certifications. Growing environmental consciousness ensures good career prospects.
Agriculture, Natural Resources & EnergyFood Products & Processing
Colorado's Food Products & Processing pathway prepares students for careers in food processing, quality control, and food business operations. Colorado's growing food production and specialty food industries create diverse opportunities. Students develop expertise in food safety, processing techniques, quality control, food science, and food business operations. They gain hands-on experience in food labs and through partnerships with food processors and manufacturers. Graduates work as food processing technicians, quality control specialists, or food production managers. Many establish specialty food businesses or work with Colorado's growing artisan food industry. Strong growth in local and specialty foods ensures good opportunities.
Agriculture, Natural Resources & EnergyRenewable Energy
Colorado's Renewable Energy pathway prepares students for careers in solar, wind, geothermal, and energy efficiency industries—sectors aligned with Colorado's environmental priorities and growing energy sector. Colorado's abundant solar resources and wind potential create exceptional opportunities in clean energy. Students develop expertise in renewable energy systems, installation techniques, maintenance procedures, electrical integration, and energy efficiency. They gain hands-on experience through partnerships with solar and wind companies, building systems contractors, and utilities. Graduates work as solar technicians, wind turbine technicians, energy auditors, or installation specialists. Many pursue advanced certifications and training. Colorado's expanding clean energy sector and state renewable portfolio standards ensure strong, growing employment throughout the state.
Agriculture, Natural Resources & EnergyReady to Build Natural Resources Programs at Scale?
See how Sage can help you create standards-aligned curriculum for Natural Resources in Colorado.