Land Guardian Program

Description

NRTG’s Land Guardian Program (LGP) addresses the growing demand for skilled and certified guardians employed within communities, industries, and non-profit organizations. This five-week (200-hour) program integrates engaging lectures, applied field training, realistic case studies, scenarios, and exercises to build practical skills, technical knowledge, and enhance analytical and critical thinking abilities. LGP graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as:  

• Land Guardians,
• Watchmen,
• Environmental Monitors,
• Environmental Technicians, and
• Other land management positions.

NRTG is currently developing an Advanced Guardian curriculum for experienced guardians.  

The LGP is provincially accredited by the British Columbia College of Applied Biologists as meeting the academic requirements for entry as an Applied Biology Technician. Applicants are still required to meet the other conditions for entry, including post-graduate work experience and professional references, as outlined in the College Credentialing Standard.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to: 

1. Apply observe, record, report, and protect skills required by land guardians.  
2. Monitor and assess soils, plants, aquatic conditions, and wildlife. 
3. Interpret information to contribute to the management of the environment. 
4. Participate in environmental protection in your territory.  

Prerequisites

None, other than a genuine interest in the protection of the land and its energy and elements. 

Who attends?

Program participants include those interested in working as land guardians, environmental monitors and technicians, industry partners, and resource workers. The program is also suitable for individuals with previous skills or interest in these areas seeking to advance their current skills.   

Contact us if you are interested in the Advanced Guardian curriculum. 

How do I attend?

Register online for the general delivery of our Land Guardian Program. Our general deliveries are held regularly throughout the year.  

If you would like to have the Land Guardian Program delivered to your community or organization as a private delivery, please consider the following:  

• Contact us well in advance of your preferred course start date. Providing 6 weeks’ notice is optimal to ensure instructor availability and allow NRTG to make necessary preparations.  
• If applicable, secure program funding. If you require assistance with funding, please contact us for a list of funding options in your area. 
• Recruit course participants (this course has a minimum enrollment of 10 participants).  
• Obtain equipment and secure suitable classroom venue for course participants. The equipment list for each registered participant will be provided to the client coordinator before the course. 

What should I bring or supply?

All students attending the general delivery must have the following items daily: 

• Electronic device (computer, laptop, or tablet) with stable Wi-Fi connection (classes are held online via Zoom) 
• Appropriate clothing for weather 
• Lunch 

A list of additional equipment required will be provided to students upon registration and receipt of tuition fees. 

For private deliveries, an equipment list and suggested suppliers will be provided to the client coordinator in advance of the delivery date.

Course Formats

The Land Guardian Program is available in two formats: 

1. General delivery. Live online classes under the guidance of experienced NRTG instructors over 5 weeks. Each day consists of morning online sessions with an instructor, followed by an afternoon of completing instructor-guided field exercises in your area and debriefing sessions. This format is ideal for those seeking training but unable to meet the criteria for the in-community training opportunity. Interested individuals can register directly online. 

2. Private delivery. An in-person and/or online, contract delivery of the program for interested communities and organizations. This format is directed to communities and organizations that have a minimum of 10 participants and can provide a venue for an in-community classroom. This delivery is conducted by NRTG instructors who travel to the community to teach the class in-person over 5 weeks. See Customize Your Program for details on course customization.  

Customize Your Program

Private deliveries of the Land Guardian Program are fully customizable to meet your organization or community’s specific needs. We offer tailored content addressing environmental concerns such as construction monitoring, erosion control, wildlife surveys, drone applications, habitat restoration, forestry, cultural heritage, land management, and more. Our flexible scheduling options throughout the year accommodate seasonal and culturally important activities in your community. Programs can be structured from week-long sessions each season to more intensive five-week courses. Contact us to explore customized training programs designed to achieve your goals.