May 5, 2003

 

ITEM120-201-R0903:   Approval of Proposal to implement a Two-Year, Outdoor Recreation Management A.A.S. Degree Program as well as a One-Year Certificate Program; Dawson Community College, Glendive, Montana.

 

THAT: The Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes Dawson Community College to award an A.A.S. or Certificate to any student who completed the two-year or one-year curriculum in Outdoor Recreation Management approved by the Board.

 

EXPLANATION: Outdoor recreation is a major contributor to the economy of the state of Montana. As the standard of living continues to increase and discretionary incomes rise, more Americans turn to leisure activities for fun and fitness. The geography, climate, and natural beauty of Montana make the state uniquely suited to fill these needs for recreational activities. Tourism and related activities bring nearly 1.5 billion dollars into the state annually. This program will prepare students to work in the field of outdoor recreation, providing services to residents and visitors to the state. Students will be trained in the safe operation and management of activities such as backpacking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, hunting, fishing, winter sports, and a variety of related leisure pursuits. The curriculum will include courses on natural resource utilization, outdoor recreational skills, first aid and rescue, botany, business management, human relations, communication skills, history, personalized fitness, geology, wilderness ethics, outdoor cooking, safety and survival skills, and GPS/GIS. The program will provide opportunities for Montanans to stay in Montana and make a living utilizing the sustainable natural resources that are so abundant here.

 

ATTACHMENT:             Program Proposal