About Water Resources and Fisheries
General Overview
The fisheries and water resources major prepares you for a career or
graduate study in fishery science or management, aquatic biology, hydrology,
hydrogeology (groundwater), laboratory analysis of water and environmental
samples, aquatic toxicology, and the assessment and management of water
resources. You must select one of three options below: fisheries, 132
credits; watershed management, 128 credits; or water resources, 121 credits.
In addition to coursework in the specific area of emphasis, each student
completes coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics. High
school students are strongly encouraged to prepare by taking courses in
these areas as well as extensive coursework in English composition. A minor
in Water Resources is also offered and consists of select courses in water,
biology, and natural resources.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are usually employed by state and federal agencies and private
industry. Students with a Bachelor of Science degree often start as
limited-term employees or technicians. Students in most water resource
disciplines should pursue a masters degree. Most agencies are anxious to
hire women and minority graduates. Eighty to ninety percent of our graduates
have found employment in the field of their choice.
Graduate Studies
The College of Natural Resources offers a Masters of Science in Natural
Resources. Individual M.S. programs can include any of the three areas of
emphasis within the Water Resources major. The primary mission of the WI
Cooperative Fishery Unit is graduate education.
Water Internships
Water Resources students are encouraged to do an internship in their area
of specialization. Internships are viewed as valuable experiences which
complements the class work on campus and provides the student with
additional field training and important contacts and references with state,
federal, and private agencies. These positions have proved to be invaluable
in obtaining a professional job after graduation. Intern positions are
generally available in all water options during the summer and a limited
number during the fall and spring semesters.
Facilities
Specialized facilities available to Water Resource students include:
-The Water & Environmental Analysis Laboratory, which offers opportunities
to gain experience in the field of water analysis.
-The Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, which offers opportunities
for graduate work in fisheries.
-The Aquatic Entomology and Biomonitoring Laboratory offers opportunities
for students to gain experience in aquatic biomonitoring projects with the
WIDNR.
-The Central Wisconsin Environmental Station that is located on Sunset Lake.
-The Schmeeckle Reserve, which features a small lake and a variety of
wetland habitats.
-Treehaven, a 1,400 acre tract near Tomahawk, Wisconsin, that contains a
variety of lakes, streams and wetlands.