Collaborating to Manage Ecosystems

Course Description:

This is a NATA Core workshop, leading to the Certificate in Natural Areas Management. This training builds an appreciation of how to manage natural areas as part of a larger ecosystem, in coordination with neighboring land owners.

Participants will: 

• Develop an understanding of the concept of ecosystem management and its relevance to resource management
• Become familiar with approaches that can be used to address threats facing entire ecosystems
• Discover strategies that bring multiple organizations and private individuals together to achieve common goals and seek common solutions
• Learn about a variety of working groups used to cope with complex environmental issues in Florida
• Develop skills in listening, communicating, moderating group dynamics, and facilitating to cope with conflict

This workshop is presented in a hybrid format. (Both the online and in-person trainings are REQUIRED)

Online coursework:

Approximately 8 hours across 3-weeks (on your own, with weekly assignment deadlines); reliable internet connection and computer required.

Attend 1-hour live virtual welcome session (via Zoom), during the first week of the online coursework.

In-person training:

Two day in-person training at Wekiwa Springs State Park in Apopka, FL.

Agenda example CME Workshop Agenda 2022

Registration fee:

$325 (does not include lodging)

*EARLY registration is available to anyone who has graduated from one or more of the NATA core certificate courses (Managing for Visitors and Volunteers, Managing for Diversity, Collaborating to Manage Ecosystems, or Conservation Site Assessment & Planning). Contact NATA Training Coordinator >1 week in advance of the early registration date for early access code. 

Lodging: 

Shared lodging available in cabins for $50/person/night at Wekiwa Springs State Park (double occupancy with ensuite bathroom, A/C and heat). Must be arranged through NATA during online registration; not available for public reservations.

For more information, contact: 

Training Coordinator

Natural Areas Training Academy

nata@ifas.ufl.edu