Identity area
Type of entity
Authorized form of name
Parallel form(s) of name
- South Dakota State University. Department of Wildlife and Fisheries
Standardized form(s) of name according to other rules
Other form(s) of name
Identifiers for corporate bodies
Description area
Dates of existence
History
In 1938, the first Conservation of Natural Resources course was taught in the South Dakota State University Entomology and Zoology Department. In 1939, the college catalog listed conservation and management of wildlife as a course of study. Classes in the area continued to develop through the years. By 1950, two curricula were available to students, one leading to a BS in agriculture, the other to a BS in wildlife techniques and conservation. In 1957, graduate courses were added, eventually leading to an MS in the two areas. In 1963, these developments led South Dakota State University to establish a separate Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences Department.
The department has continued to grow through the years. A wildlife extension agent has been in the department since 1970, and faculty numbers have grown significantly. While the wildlife techniques major was dropped, other areas of study are now available. Today, the Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences Department offers the Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. This degree is intended to educate students in preparation for positions with state and federal agencies and private companies.
The department changed its name to the Department of Natural Resources Management. Its mission is to conduct research, educate at all levels, and provide services and outreach that benefit South Dakotan's and society as a whole. The department addresses basic and applied research questions and approaches in: Ecology and Environmental Science, Rangeland Ecology and Management, and Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences.