The Australian continent has a rich natural environment and biologically diverse landscape enjoyed by many. As a result, this landscape is under pressure from a growing population of residents and visitors. Erosion, weed infestation, feral animals, loss of biodiversity and habitat are common problems as we run the risk of loving our environment to death.
To achieve the best outcome for nature conservation and the protection of biodiversity it is essential that a positive proactive approach is adopted. This can be achieved by emphasising opportunities for improvement in the environment through natural area management by acquiring knowledge and undertaking education. The Conservation and Land Management (CLM) courses enables students to integrate natural resource management within the overall framework of sustainable land use and to do this in a way that does not add to social or economic burdens. Students will learn about understanding the nature of the resources being managed and will have access to appropriate technologies for managing those resources. They will be taught how to plan and implement on ground projects and to work within financial and time constraints. Selected courses and subjects will equip students to find employment in the new emerging industries based on natural resource management and ‘green jobs’ in addition to the more traditional areas of employment associated with forestry and horticulture.
Courses are delivered by various methods including face to face or flexibly using a combination of material forwarded for completion at home and attendance at short practical workshops.