Simple Beginnings…:
Simple Beginnings… Exposed to nature and the outdoors at a young age Walks with Grandpa near Pebble Beach Cabin in the mountains Wild Kingdom and other nature shows Consistent reinforcement throughout my life Began Scouting at 7 Always playing outside Campouts and fishing trips Volunteer projects with terrain and wildlife Strong attachment to nature & the environment
Why Wildlife Management?:
Why Wildlife Management? With age has come a new appreciation for nature Hunting and fishing, hiking, camping, water sports Impact requires involvement and action Requirement for a master’s degree for promotion Needed to study something I am interested in …
Motivation to complete studies and remain relevant Needed to find a second career that I cared about Desire to do something that I will enjoy & be good at… Thought about law enforcement and wildlife biology
What I’ve Learned:
What I’ve Learned N o formal educational background in science Much time spent with additional study Realized need to take background courses to increase understanding Completed difficult courses first Core classes and background first, then the ₺ fun₺ classes Concentration with Fish & Wildlife Management Should take the most relevant classes last Environmental studies is broad and diverse Learned that many disciplines depend on other multiple of study Relevance is key … how does it apply ? Don’t need to be a game warden to help wildlife!
The Big Picture:
The Big Picture Wildlife management more than game animals Hunting previously a plague to conservation Hunters now at forefront of the conservation movement As more are educated , more people take positive action Inspired to teach others about importance of appreciating nature… ALL SPECIES Law Enforcement, Field Biology, or in the schools Only a steady cultural shift in re-appreciation for nature can make Leopold’s vision of harmony realized Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land. – Aldo Leopold, The Land Ethic, 1949
Slide 6:
Brandon Bard EVSP 505 American Military University October 16, 2011