North Carolina's natural resources systems pathway prepares students to manage and conserve the state's forests, wetlands, and wildlife. Students develop expertise in forest management, conservation practices, environmental monitoring, and sustainable resource extraction. With extensive natural resources in the coastal plain, piedmont, and mountain regions, North Carolina offers diverse learning environments and career opportunities.
The program covers forest ecology, wildlife management, soil and water conservation, and sustainable forestry practices. Students learn to use technology such as GIS mapping, drone monitoring, and environmental assessment tools. Coursework includes both classroom instruction and field studies in North Carolina's varied ecosystems.
Graduates pursue careers with the NC Division of Forestry, Wildlife Resources Commission, state parks system, and private conservation organizations. Others become environmental consultants, forest technicians, or resource managers for large landholdings throughout the state.
Natural Resources Systems at a Glance
2
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
North Carolina's natural resources systems curriculum meets state standards for environmental science, forestry, and wildlife management. Students complete 4-6 pathway units covering forest ecology, conservation methods, resource inventory, and sustainable practices aligned with NC DPI requirements.
Programs emphasize state-specific ecosystems and management practices, including coastal wetland conservation, piedmont forest management, and mountain watershed protection. Students learn compliance with state and federal environmental regulations.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Environmental and Natural Resources I | AN51 |
| Environmental and Natural Resources II | AN52 |
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.
Forest Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $38,000 - $38,930
Adjusted for cost of living: $40,365
Wildlife Management Specialist
ExperiencedSalary range: $54,800 - $75,850
Adjusted for cost of living: $65,785
Environmental Consultant
ExperiencedSalary range: $58,800 - $84,080
Adjusted for cost of living: $69,896
Conservation Officer
Entry LevelSalary range: $54,800 - $75,850
Adjusted for cost of living: $58,211
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern with NC Division of Forestry, Wildlife Resources Commission, state parks, and private forest management companies across the state.
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 North Carolina CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
North Carolina Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with North Carolina's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as North Carolina standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in North Carolina
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