About the Restoration Ecology Program
Become a force for ecological change by studying reclamation and restoration ecology! This program covers various ecological topics regarding the rehabilitation, reclamation and restoration of disturbed ecosystems. The curriculum makes it a powerful addition to any natural resource-related major.
Our students graduate with the tools needed to pursue careers in reclaiming and restoring lands disturbed by energy development. Many of our graduates end up in Wyoming and other Western states, where resource management jobs abound.
This minor is reserved for those pursuing an undergraduate degree at the University of Wyoming.
The restoration ecology program is led by a team of well-respected restoration ecologists, including:
- Dr. Jennifer Bell: Dr. Bell studies soil microbiology in areas that have undergone restoration efforts.
- Dr. Kristina Hufford: Dr. Hufford studies plant ecology and genetics at restored sites.
Learn more about our faculty, their research and their contributions to the University of Wyoming!
What can you do with a minor in restoration ecology?
A restoration ecology minor opens the door to a range of meaningful careers in environmental science and conservation. Potential employers include conservation organizations, government agencies, environmental consulting firms and research institutions.
The restoration ecology minor prepares students for many fulfilling careers, including the following jobs:
- Environmental consultant
- Land reclamation specialist
- Restoration ecologist
- Water resources specialist
- Conservation scientist
Here are some of the places UW grads are making a positive impact on the environment:
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department
- NCX
- University of Montana
- The Nature Conservancy
- Thorne Nature Experience
- Colorado West Land Trust
- Mule Deer Foundation
- City of Boulder
As a restoration ecology minor, you’ll have the opportunity to take interesting courses on a variety of ecological topics. Two of our introductory courses include:
- Reclamation of Drastically Disturbed Lands: This course covers the reclamation of drastically disturbed lands in the West, emphasizing surface mined lands.
- Rangeland Reclamation Restoration Ecology: In this class, students conduct a detailed analysis of various disturbed ecosystems unique to Western rangelands.
Yes! Students are given ample hands-on learning experiences throughout the course of the minor. These opportunities often come in the form of field trips, where students visit various environmental sites to apply what they’re learning.
