The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point�s College of Natural Resources (CNR) has signed an agreement with Mid-State Technical College (MSTC) articulating an urban forestry
2 + 2 agreement. This agreement gives MSTC�s urban forestry technology associate degree graduates a clear path to a four-year baccalaureate at the CNR.

According to CNR forestry program coordinator, Robert Miller, this is the first such agreement of its kind in Wisconsin. "With the continued urbanization of many parts of the state and the nation, urban foresters will be in increasing demand in the coming years," said Miller. "Combining a solid technical base at MSTC, with a strong mixture of classroom and research at the university, students will have the best of both educational opportunities."

Once an Urban Forestry Technology graduate decides to transfer from MSTC to UWSP�s urban forestry degree program, he or she will then take their comprehensive technical skills in the discipline and augment that education with courses at UWSP in urban forestry, tree biology, forestry and management and other related coursework. This agreement allows for the transfer of up to 61 academic credits from MSTC to the university.

MSTC�s Urban Forestry Technology Program is offered at the college�s Wisconsin Rapids campus. Instructor Ron Zillmer was instrumental in launching the unique career program in January 2001. Zillmer previously was employed with the City of Milwaukee Forestry Division for nine years and was also a part-time instructor at Milwaukee Area Technical College. Zillmer will work closely with Miller in coordinating MSTC�s part of the agreement as Miller will oversee UWSP�s role in the partnership until he retires and his replacement is appointed later this summer.

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tmiller/vc/urban forestry agreement