ECOLOGY CONSERVATION & MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATION
The Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation & Management Certification verifies individuals have obtained exceptional knowledge and skills in the areas of ecological principles and wildlife management, as well as habitat, forest, grasslands, wetlands and waterfowl conservation and management.
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Meeting the Industry Need
The certification assesses industry-valued and industry-recognized standards produced by Ducks Unlimited, the world's leader in wetlands and waterfowl conservation. Using a grassroots, volunteer-based organizational structure, Ducks Unlimited has built a successful partnership with private individuals, landowners, agencies, scientific communities and other entities to conserve, restore and manage North America's Wetlands.
The certification validates individuals have acquired a solid understanding of ecological principles. Those who earn the certification are more qualified and prepared to pursue a meaningful career in natural resources management. Additionally, the certification allows employers to identify and connect with more skilled candidates, filling gaps in the labor market and jumpstarting individuals’ careers.
As a result of the greater value society has begun to place on natural resources and the environment, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8% job growth in wildlife management from 2016-2026. Careers include wildlife habitat manager, wildlife population manager, wildlife research ecologist, wildlife law enforcement officer and others.
Industry Standards
The certification exam consists of 100 questions and assesses knowledge and skills from the following weighted industry standards:
Ecological Principles
- Ecological Systems
- Ecological Succession
- Monitoring & Sustaining Ecosystems
20%
Wildlife Conservation & Management
- North American Model of Wildlife Conservation
- Population Ecology
- Management Plans
30%
Species Identification
- Non-Game Animals
- Predator & Furbearers
- Game & Upland Birds
- Waterfowl
10%
Habitat Conservation & Management
- Types of Habitats
- History of Conservation
- Importance of Conservation
- Benefits, Threats, Legislation & Conservation & Management of the Following Habitats:
- Forests
- Grasslands
- Wetlands
40%
|
Ecological Principles |
20% |
|
Species Identification |
10% |
|
Wildlife Conservation & Management |
30% |
|
Habitat Conservation & Management |
40% |
Free Ducks Unlimited Membership for Students
Students who earn the Ducks Unlimited Ecology Conservation & Management Certification are eligible to claim a free one-year Ducks Unlimited membership. Join the effort to conserve critical wetland habitats for waterfowl and other important wildlife.
Student earners will receive information about claiming their membership upon delivery of the paper certificate.
Optional Certification Preparation Materials
The iCEV online curriculum platform offers a variety of preparatory content and resources designed to prepare students to earn industry certifications.
Multimedia Presentations
Prepare for the certification exam with engaging video and PowerPoint® presentation lessons. Each lesson is developed through collaboration with industry experts in order to address industry standards within each certification.
Interactive Coursework
iCEV's interactive activities, projects and assessments are based on real-world scenarios and reinforce comprehension of the industry standards assessed within each certification exam.
About Ducks Unlimited
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 14 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever.
"It’s important that students understand not only the conservation and ecology of wildlife and wildlife habitat, but also their personal roles as future stewards."
Mark Horobetz
Manager of Youth & Education Programs
Ducks Unlimited