Program Description From forestry to tourism, from First Nations to park users—we all enjoy Saskatchewan’s natural resources. There are laws and environmental policies in place to ensure the long-term sustainability of our fisheries, forests and wildlife. If you want to play an active role in ensuring these laws are respected, Resource and Environmental Law will appeal to you. It’s a career that demands a strong belief in what you’re doing, a good understanding of human behaviour and excellent communication skills.
Resource and Environmental Law is a two-year diploma program that specializes in conservation and environmental law enforcement. You’ll develop solid skills in environmental protection, enforcement and investigation. You’ll learn about:
Indigenous resource rights Canadian criminal justice system Control tactics Courtroom procedures Environmental and field investigations Environmental legislation and compliance Environmental sampling Investigative techniques Park services and enforcement Wildlife and fisheries management Hands-on learning is key. You’ll augment classroom learning with lab exercises, simulated field investigations, outdoor camps and work experience. You’ll work with trainers from different government agencies, participate in ride-alongs and more.
Field camps are a popular part of Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Natural Resources programs. We have our own outdoor camp on the north side of Candle Lake. You’ll spend three weeks here in the fall learning a variety of skills. You’ll return for winter camp to learn about working in arduous outdoor conditions. Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s excellent camp facilities give you first-hand experience working in the outdoors, from learning how to pull boats over for compliance checks in the summer to ice rescue in the winter.
Because jobs in environmental law enforcement can be physically demanding, we put Resource and Environmental Law students through the same fitness test as new RCMP recruits.
Resource and Environmental Law graduates can choose from a variety of career options. Work in the field as a conservation officer; environmental protection officer; park warden; or fishery, forestry or wildlife officer. Potential employers include environmental agencies, federal and provincial parks, natural resource companies, First Nation communities, even border services or law enforcement agencies.
