SIAST logo

Resource and Environmental Law


Location(s):  Prince Albert   

Resource and Environmental Law is a diploma program. It is a specialized program that streams graduates into the field of conservation and environmental law enforcement. Classroom theory, lab exercises and comprehensive simulated field investigations and activities will help you develop sound environmental protection, enforcement and investigation skills.

During your initial training period, you will be provided with the essential general knowledge and skills common to all areas of practice in the natural resources field. You will then pursue training to meet the specific requirements of resource and environmental law enforcement agencies (including Canadian Criminal Justice, Aboriginal Resource Rights, Resource and Environmental Legislation, Environmental Science, Environmental Monitoring and Sampling, Wildlife and Aquatics Sciences, Field Patrols and Investigations, Courtroom Procedures, Control Tactics and Crime Scene Management and Evidence Collection).

Length: 72 weeks


Career Opportunities

Graduates will have the knowledge, skills and abilities to obtain various positions.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

  • conservation officers
  • environmental protection officers
  • environmental technicians and consultants
  • fishery officers
  • forestry officers
  • police officers
  • wildlife officers

Program Details

Start Date(s): August

Apply Now

Admission Requirements


  • Grade 12 with a combined minimum 65% average in English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30 (combined), and a combined minimum 65% average in Math A30 and Math B30 (combined)*


Note

  • Applicants should be aware that most employers require a satisfactory criminal records check of students prior to engaging in practicum placements and of graduates employed in the resource and environmental law enforcement field. Please note that students who do not have a clear criminal record will not be able to complete their program if refused a practicum placement.

  • English Language Requirement


*Revised Mathematics Curriculum Requirement
(Effective July 1, 2013)


  • Minimum of 60% in Workplace and Apprenticeship Math 30 or in Foundations of Math 30 or in Pre-Calculus 30
    (replacing Math A30 and B30 above)

  • All other admission requirements remain unchanged



Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. You must review the details and program specific documentation concerning Special Admission.


The majority of SIAST programs have established ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post-Secondary Success Requirements. Depending on the program, additional specific admission requirements may still need to be met.


ACCUPLACER ©     

ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
for this program

80Arithmetic
75Elementary Algebra
80Reading
80Sentence
Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

One year post-secondary studies plus a minimum of 65% in the mathematics requirement


Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
      Classroom
      Home Study
      Online
      Shop/Lab
      Work Experience
      Work-based Training

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.


Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.





Transfer Credit and Future Study Options


  • The first year includes a common core of courses with the Integrated Resource Management Program and Forest Ecosystem Technology Program.

  • Graduates have the option of applying their diploma toward a Bachelor of Arts in Resource and Environmental Studies (BARES Program). This degree program is a collaborative initiative of SIAST, the University of Regina (U of R) and the First Nations University of Canada (FNUC). The final product is a two year (SIAST) plus a two and one-half years (FNUC/U of R) degree program.



  • CAMP 102  Winter Camp
  • You will participate in a winter camp and apply the principles of snowmobile safety, winter emergency survival techniques and ice-rescue techniques. You will increase your competency for working under arduous conditions while exploring winter ecology in a boreal setting.


    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical


  • COM_ 106  Scientific Report Writing
  • You will be introduced to scientific research and accessing and incorporating scientific literature. These elements are combined in a research project that will provide you with the opportunity to assemble, synthesize and report your research findings in a technical report format.


    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • COMM 116  Communication Skills
  • You will be introduced to the fundamentals of professional conduct, public relations, letter writing, interoffice communication, oral presentations and job search skills.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 341   


  • COMP 171  Introduction to Microsoft Word
  • Your studies will introduce you to basic word processing skills such as creating, editing and formatting documents, building tables, using templates and applying styles.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   CKEY 187    COAP 196    COAP 343    COMP 120    COMP 154   


  • COMP 174  Introduction to Microsoft Excel 1
  • You will study the basic features of Excel. You will learn to format spreadsheet elements, create simple charts and use simple formulas and functions.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Course Attributes:

    Equivalent Course(s):   COAP 138    COAP 197    COAP 344    COMP 120   


  • COMP 175  Introduction to Microsoft Excel 2
  • You will study the intermediate features of Excel. Using the skills and knowledge you acquired in COMP 174 or COMP 172, you will learn to work with multiple worksheets, create and modify several chart types, perform data manipulation features and use more advanced spreadsheet functions.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Course Attributes:

    Equivalent Course(s):   COAP 344   

    Prerequisites:
    COMP 172 Minimum Grade of 60 or COMP 174 Minimum Grade of 60


  • ENVR 101  Environmental Science and Technology 1
  • You will scientifically examine the natural world in an attempt to explain how life on earth is sustained. You will review human population development with its increasing resource requirements. The central theme is sustainable resource management applied to urban and natural environments. You will take a global perspective using objective risk analysis and environmental ethics.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   ENVR 440   


  • EQPT 131  Photography in Resource Management
  • Photography has a variety of applications in resource management and resource law enforcement. You will learn how 35mm SLR, digital and video cameras operate. You will also create photographs and short videos.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • EQPT 133  Equipment and Safety of Boats
  • You will learn how to operate motorboats on lakes and rivers. You will become familiar with routine field maintenance, troubleshooting and operation procedures in hazardous conditions. At the conclusion of the course, you will be asked to complete the test for the National Coast Guard boating certificate.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • FIRE 101  Wildland Fire Fundamentals
  • You will apply wildland fire management fundamentals (including fire detection, assessment, and reporting, fire safety and organization, fire weather, fire behaviour and response planning systems). The course content includes field exercises in fire pump set-up, hose handling, sprinkler system set-up, two-way radio communication and the use of hand tools and fire foam. A simulation exercise in basic fire tactics is integral to the course.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • FORE 101  Introduction to Forestry
  • You will describe forest practices that are common in Saskatchewan. You will specify forest harvest and transportation systems, identify the methods for proper harvest and transportation operations, and learn basic forest measurement techniques and calculations. You will also perform a timber cruise where you will be required to prescribe appropriate harvest systems and techniques.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • GIS_ 101  Geographic Information Systems for Resource Managers 1
  • You will achieve a basic understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) concepts and principles. You will learn how to display spatial data, work with tables and create a map layout using ArcView GIS.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   GIS 350    GIS 440   


  • GPS_ 100  Basics of Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
  • You will receive an introduction to GPS for resource managers. You will review basic GPS theory and principles of geodesy (including positioning methods, errors and error management). You will gain hands-on experience using single-frequency GPS receivers. You will learn how to navigate using handheld GPS receivers. You must complete a small project from the planning stage to final data output. You will also learn how to put GPS data into different file formats.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • MAPS 101  Introduction to Mapping and Compassing
  • Your studies will focus on mapping systems. Interpreting maps will be emphasized. You will also develop skills in ground and map measurements.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   MAPS 340   


  • NAST 101  Aboriginal Cultural Awareness
  • You will gain an understanding of the diversity and richness of First Nations and Metis cultures, histories and current issues.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   NAST 340   


  • PHOT 101  Aerial Photo Identification and Interpretation
  • You will learn the general principles associated with the use of aerial photographs and the practical application of identification, interpretation, ground truthing and measurements of ground features.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • RLAW 101  Resource Legislation
  • You will describe the creation and construction of legislation, the Summary Offences Procedures Act and the provincial and federal resource protection statutes and regulations.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   RLAW 342   


  • RLAW 102  Aboriginal Resource Rights
  • You will describe the treaties, Natural Resources Transfer Agreement, Constitution Act 1982 and case law with respect to the special rights of Aboriginal people to the resources.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   RLAW 344   


  • RLAW 103  Introduction to the Forest Resources Management Act and
    Regulations
  • An overview of the specific legislation, regulations and policies affecting forestry and natural resources management in Saskatchewan will help you recognize the principles and theories of resource management and law enforcement.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   FORE 441    RLAW 350   


  • RSRC 101  Elements of Ecology
  • You will cover the spatial and temporal variation of life. You will explore the factors that influence the distribution of life and the competitive forces that restrict or enhance population growth. You will receive a summary evaluation of humans' role in ecosystems.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   RSRC 340   


  • RSRC 102  Landscape, Soils and Ecoregions
  • You will be introduced to processes and features that help shape and define the landscape of Saskatchewan. You will learn about fluvial and glacial geomorphologic processes and will be able to describe their associated landforms. This provides a foundation for the study of soils, parent material and corresponding vegetation. A primary objective of this course is to have you apply your knowledge of geology, soils and vegetation within the integrated context of ecological land classification.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • SFTY 106  Wilderness Survival
  • You will learn the basic survival techniques involving clothing, shelter building, fire, signaling and collecting food and water. You will also learn how to deal with wildlife during dangerous encounters.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory


  • SFTY 107  WHMIS and TDG
  • You will learn how to identify safety concerns and appropriate safety procedures related to your program. You will become familiar with standard safety courses (such as the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System and Transportation of Dangerous Goods).

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning


  • SFTY 108  AVSafe 2000
  • To meet Saskatchewan Environment's goals, you will receive aviation safety training and become a safer and more knowledgeable passenger. This course is for those who work around or fly in aircraft in specialty or regular charter flying.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning


  • SFTY 118  Field Vehicle Operation and Safety
  • You will learn how to operate and maintain field vehicles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). You will also learn how to load and unload an ATV. Upon successful course completion, you will receive certification from the Canada Safety Council for ATV training.


    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • STAT 122  Introductory Statistics
  • You will be introduced to statistics for the purpose of summarizing and communicating scientific information. Distributions of data will be summarized as to central tendencies and patterns of dispersion. The course content includes point estimates, intervals and graphical representations of data.


    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • TAX_ 100  Plant Taxonomy and Identification
  • You will learn how to identify lesser vegetation, terrestrial and aquatic, by field characteristics and site.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • WILD 101  Ecology, Biology and Management of Saskatchewan Wildlife
  • Knowledge of the biology and ecology of wildlife is fundamental to managing their populations and habitats. You will examine how wildlife populations relate to their environments. You will learn the life history and biology of Saskatchewan big game mammals, upland game birds, waterfowl, non-game wildlife, fish species, and threatened and endangered species. You will also learn the management challenges, strategies and goals for these species, and the environmental laws pertaining to threatened and endangered species.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory


    Required

  • CAMP 305  Winter Aquatic Surveys
  • You will participate in a winter camp and apply the principles of winter water quality and under-ice fish netting techniques. You will increase your competency for working under arduous conditions while exploring winter ecology in a boreal setting.


    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical


  • CAMP 411  Natural Resources Field Techniques
  • Your training will include an immersion in resource management field techniques. You will work directly with a variety of terrestrial organisms, assess and apply management procedures, and collect field data that will be used in your second year labs and exercises.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical


  • CAMP 413  Resource and Environmental Law Field Techniques
  • You will return to your second year of training with an immersion course in boreal field management and resource enforcement techniques. You will demonstrate boating enforcement and trailer towing and unloading techniques. You will also collect evidence, conduct field compliance inspections, participate in resource K-9 activities and enforcement procedures for different game harvesting methods.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical


  • CAMP 414  Northern Compliance Field Services Camp
  • You will spend four days in northern Saskatchewan where you will explore commercial fisheries, fur harvesting, caribou management, forestry and mining activities. Your tour will focus on regulatory and inspection activities associated with these industries. You will also tour Northern Air Operations.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical


  • ENVR 401  Environmental Science and Technology 2
  • You will study pollution prevention and mitigation technology. You will also develop environmental management strategies for agriculture, oilfield, mining and pulp and paper operations.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   ENVR 441   


  • ENVR 402  Environmental Sampling
  • You will perform environmental compliance and inspection-related sampling activities. You will develop the skills needed for collecting legal samples of solids, liquid and air.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   ENVR 442   


  • FIRE 404  Arson Investigation
  • You will apply the principles of arson investigation in a forestry context.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   FIRE 584   

    Prerequisites:
    FIRE 101 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • FISH 301  Introduction to Limnology
  • The course provides an introduction to aquatic habitat surveys. You will learn about aquatic ecology and acquire the skills needed to safely sample aquatic habitats and interpret water quality. You will also become familiar with fish anatomy and learn how to identify fish species and aquatic invertebrates inhabiting Saskatchewan waters.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Prerequisites:
    CAMP 305 Minimum Grade of P (concurrent)


  • FISH 404  Fisheries Management
  • You will be introduced to fisheries management principles as they apply to protecting fish habitat and fisheries resource utilization. You will become familiar with fish parasites and disease, and the steps involved in conducting fish kill investigations. The course content also includes habitat protection, legislation, enforcement and the scientific basis for establishing quotas and limits.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   FISH 446   


  • PARK 401  Park Services
  • Your studies will focus on the history, development and management framework of Saskatchewan's park system. You will also learn about procedures for trail development, managing visitors and conflict, emergency trouble-shooting, risk management, evacuation and re-entry of danger areas, and search and rescue techniques.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   PARK 440   


  • PR__ 401  Professionalism and Ethics in Law Enforcement
  • Professional conduct is essential when working with the public. You will learn the principles of a professional code of conduct and the importance of developing and maintaining solid ethics.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   PR 441   


  • RLAW 301  Canadian Criminal Justice
  • You will identify the fundamental principles of the Canadian judicial system, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, trials, appeals and sentencing. You will examine the evolution of law enforcement in Canada with specific reference to the role of law enforcement in resource management.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • RLAW 401  Control Tactics
  • Your studies will focus on the principles of dealing with hostility and managing aggressive behaviour. You will learn defensive control tactics. You will also learn the legal authorities and limitations of conservation officers.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    RLAW 301 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • RLAW 402  Field Investigations
  • You will describe the reasons and common methods of poaching and an officer's means of detection. You will gain practical experience completing enforcement documents. You will also learn procedures and tactics for conducting patrols, surveillance and high-risk takedowns.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   RLAW 440   

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 101 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and RLAW 101 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and RLAW 301 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • RLAW 403  Environmental Legislation and Compliance
  • You will describe provincial and federal legislation, and international treaty and its application to specific environmental issues. You will learn how to prepare and perform regulatory site inspections. You will apply compliance measures and documents. Environmental forensics and investigation will be introduced.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • RLAW 404  Gathering Evidence
  • You will gain an understanding of the principles surrounding the continuity of evidence. You will describe proper evidence collection procedures. You will become familiar with using forensic analysis on firearms, tools, blood, hair and fibre. You will also learn procedures for conducting interviews, interrogations and property searches.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    RLAW 101 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and RLAW 301 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • RLAW 405  Courtroom Procedures
  • Your studies will focus on procedures for preparing and presenting evidence in court. You will identify the principles of burden of proof, the role of a witness and enforcement agencies and their functions. You will learn how to be competent in enforcement procedures and be able to effectively present yourself as an officer during court proceedings.

    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   RLAW 444   

    Prerequisites:
    RLAW 101 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and RLAW 301 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • SFTY 300  Firearm Safety
  • The Government of Canada developed this course to meet the mandatory requirements for the acquisition of firearms set out in the Criminal Code of Canada. The course content includes basic firearms safety practices, ammunition, parts of firearms, firing techniques and procedures, and safe storage, display, transportation and handling.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • SFTY 403  Safety and Emergencies
  • The course provides health and safety training specific to hazards you may encounter during environmental inspections, enforcement activities and emergency response (including selecting appropriate safety equipment and clothing). You will learn the theory behind environmental emergencies.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • WILD 301  Wildlife Anatomy and Systematics
  • You will compare the internal and external anatomical features of amphibians, birds and mammals. You will learn how to identify the members of these vertebrate classes that occur in Saskatchewan.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • WILD 302  History and Practice of Wildlife Management
  • Modern wildlife management in North America evolved over the past century as wildlife biologists and managers accumulated new knowledge of wildlife and habitats. You will trace the development of wildlife management in North America and examine the different management eras, concepts and practices from the past to the present. You will be introduced to the work of influential people in wildlife management over the past century.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory


  • WILD 404  Wildlife Management Field Techniques
  • Biologists and field technicians use a wide variety of field techniques when working with wildlife and resolving conflicts between humans and wildlife. You will learn fundamental field skills in wildlife damage prevention, data and sample collection, and age/sex determination.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    CAMP 411 Minimum Grade of P (concurrent)


  • WORK 402  Work Experience
  • You will participate in and report on a minimum six-week work experience in the field of resource and/or environmental law enforcement. The work experience provides you with an opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge you learned in the classroom.

    0.0 Credit Units
    180.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Work Experience -Individual

    Equivalent Course(s):   WORK 440   



    More Information



    © Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology | webmaster | Last Modified: September 02, 2010 09:48AM