Frequently Asked Questions: FAQs

We are an exceptional program rooted in the realm of natural resources, nestled amidst over a million acres of public land. Setting ourselves apart, we proudly stand as the sole Environmental Studies program within our California community college, situated in a quaint rural town rather than a bustling metropolis. If the notion of immersing yourself in outdoor activities while gaining firsthand knowledge appeals to you, we invite you to explore what we have to offer! Feather River College presents an idyllic platform for delving into the world of Environmental Studies.

Our Environmental Studies (ENVR) program delves into the intricate interplay between physical and biological phenomena within the biosphere, with a special focus on the impact of human activities on the landscape. Tailored to embrace a comprehensive scientific approach, the Environmental Studies major at Feather River College is designed to equip students for diverse careers centered around resolving environmental and resource challenges. Our location, surrounded by expansive public forests within a watershed pivotal to California's water supply, uniquely positions FRC to deliver a robust Environmental Studies curriculum. Addressing pressing concerns ranging from California's drought to the ramifications of climate change on the Sierra Nevada forests, we find ourselves at the epicenter of contemporary environmental discourse.

A plethora of diverse and promising career paths await Environmental Studies graduates. Principal employers encompass governmental bodies like the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and US Fish and Wildlife Service, along with state agencies devoted to wildlife and water resources, county planning departments, irrigation districts, utility corporations, timber enterprises, licensed surveyors, professional foresters, non-profit organizations, and numerous others. Occupations within the environmental domain often entail engaging with the public to convey insights regarding a spectrum of project types and associated concerns. The core of the Environmental Studies program lies in cultivating an adept comprehension of policies, contemporary matters, and a comprehensive introduction to various natural resource facets such as forestry, wildlife, soils, and recreation. 

The Environmental Studies program is meticulously crafted to equip students for seamless transitions to four-year institutions. Our distinguishing hallmark is our immersive, hands-on educational approach. Students are presented with exceptional opportunities to engage with FRC's Wild Trout Fish Hatchery, an extensive collection of mounted wildlife specimens, and a cutting-edge Geographic Information System (GIS) lab. Our curriculum extends beyond the classroom, with classes actively participating in community service initiatives like streamside restoration, wetland preservation and enhancement, fuels reduction projects, and the creation of interpretive trails. This practical exposure empowers students with invaluable experience that primes them for triumphs in further education pursuits or professional undertakings.

Our dedicated faculty is deeply committed to immersing students in the authentic environments and interactions that exemplify potential career trajectories. Facilitating students' entry into their inaugural job roles or internships stands as a paramount objective, and our robust network of connections with potential employers attests to our unwavering dedication in this regard. We take pride in fostering these initial steps toward professional success for our students.

A transformative societal shift in our perception of natural resource management has led to profound changes in our perspective on forests, rivers, and wildlife. Our approach has evolved from isolated resource management models to integrated ecosystem management strategies. The focal point has transitioned from resource extraction to prioritizing ecosystem health and biological integrity. In response to this pivotal transformation, the Environmental Studies Program at FRC has undergone a dynamic evolution, poised to shape you into a future leader. The core competencies we aim to instill in our students include:

• Communication: Proficiency in both written and oral communication is paramount within the realm of Environmental Studies. The ability to collaborate effectively in small groups is equally essential.
• Multidisciplinary Perspective: Graduates will possess the capacity to converse fluently in the languages of diverse disciplines within the environmental realm.
• Knowledge: An adept understanding of planetary dynamics, the functioning of technological societies, and the intricate interplay between policy and these realms.
• Application: Technical field skills are rigorously taught and practiced within the nurturing environment of FRC's compact institution.
• Environmental Ethic: Graduates will cultivate an ecological identity, delineate professional aspirations, and align their career trajectory and educational pursuits with their ethical convictions.
• Sustainability: Equipped with a quantitative comprehension, graduates will adeptly steward critical resources, striking an equilibrium between present-day necessities and the enduring well-being of ecosystems for generations to come.