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College of Natural Resources Forest Ecology and Health Minor

Minor

Study the Science Behind Healthy Forests

The Forest Ecology and Health Minor at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point (UWSP) is ideal for students interested in forest ecosystems, tree health, and natural resource management. Administered by the Forestry Discipline, this 36-credit minor offers hands-on, applied learning that prepares students for careers focused on managing forest insects, diseases, invasive species, and fire ecology.

Whether you’re passionate about protecting forests from threats or want to understand how ecosystems respond to change, this minor equips you with the skills to take on real-world challenges in forest health and sustainability.

Who Should Consider This Minor?

This program is perfect for students majoring in:

  • Forestry
  • Wildlife Ecology
  • Biology
  • Environmental Science and Management
  • Environmental Education and Interpretation

It is also a strong addition for anyone pursuing a career that involves invasive species management, forest entomology, pathology, or fire management.

What You Will Learn

Students in this minor gain field-based and technical skills such as:

  • Identifying and measuring tree species
  • Diagnosing tree damage caused by pests, diseases, or environmental stress
  • Designing forest health management plans
  • Implementing prescribed burns for fire ecology
  • Managing invasive species and planning response campaigns
  • Communicating forest health issues to public audiences

Career Paths with a Forest Ecology and Health Minor

Graduates of this minor are well-prepared for careers in:

  • Forest Health and Pest Management
  • Fire Ecology and Wildland Firefighting
  • Invasive Species Control and Monitoring
  • Forest Entomology and Pathology
  • Natural Resource Management Agencies
  • Conservation and Restoration Projects

This minor is especially valuable for jobs with agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, state forestry departments, invasive species task forces, and nonprofit conservation organizations.

Program Details

  • Credits Required: 36
  • Eligibility: Open to students with a background in biology or natural resources
  • Administered by: Forestry Discipline, College of Natural Resources
  • Includes: Fieldwork, lab experience, public outreach strategy, and ecological planning

Why Choose the Forest Ecology and Health Minor?

  • Real-world experience — Hands-on labs and fieldwork
  • Specialized knowledge — Focus on forest health threats and ecological response
  • Career-focused — Prepares you for high-demand roles in forestry, conservation, and environmental science
  • Interdisciplinary — Courses combine ecology, pathology, entomology, and communication

Learn More

To explore the complete course list or add this minor to your program, visit the UWSP Catalog page or talk with an adviser in the Forestry Discipline.