Applied Conservation Field Skills and Forest Management classes, May Session 2026
At Au Sable, we're committed to equipping students with the practical skills needed to succeed in conservation careers. That's why we were excited to offer Applied Conservation Field Skills, led by restoration ecologist John Brittenham, this past May Session. This intensive field-based course immersed students in hands-on training used by conservation professionals every day, including prescribed fire, wilderness first aid, herbicide application for invasive species management, chainsaw safety and operation, ATV and equipment use, ecological monitoring, trail work, and more. Students left with valuable experience, industry-relevant credentials, and a deeper understanding of what it means to steward creation through active conservation work.
When asked about her experience in the course, Hannah Weirick (Cedarville University) shared:
“Applied Conservation Field Skills is a valuable course for those wanting to work in conservation and restoration, but do not know where to start. It teaches the student every aspect of conservation work, allowing the student ample time to master equipment and techniques for any field job, especially in the realm of Creation Care, before even heading to the interview! Along with this, it is a required course for two Au Sable certificates, making the student more marketable and prepared. Each skill taught in the classroom in the morning was utilized and taught in the field in the afternoon, from chainsaw use to prescribed fire to herbicide application to land management planning. No class can compare to this that genuinely prepares students for the workforce. This class gave me the confidence I needed to enter into the workplace post-grad in both my faith, abilities, and skills that I know the Lord can use for His Glory, Will, and Honor."
