Wilderness Character

Learn about how wilderness character is defined, wilderness character qualities and what degrades these qualities. This course also discusses how to integrate wilderness character into planning, monitoring, management, operations, and more.

Preserving wilderness character is mandated by the Wilderness Act of 1964 (Public Law 88-577) and agency policy. Wilderness character is our way of putting language to these unique and important places by describing what is meaningful and beneficial about them. This course provides the definition of wilderness character, including its qualities and what degrades them, the basics of why we preserve wilderness character, and how to integrate wilderness character into planning, monitoring, management, operations, and more.

This course is self-paced allowing you flexibility in the time needed to complete the course. You decide the order and progression you’d like to take, allowing you to revisit and review sections in greater depth as needed.

Elements of the course:

• Supplemental reference materials
• Informal knowledge checks
• Reflection pieces

Following the course, you will complete an assessment which requires you to demonstrate your understanding of key course concepts. Upon successful completion of the assessment you will be awarded an electronic certificate of completion.

Course Chapters:

• What Is Wilderness Character?
• Qualities of Wilderness Character
• Managing for Wilderness Character

This course is helpful to anyone who manages wilderness. It is also helpful for those who are interested in learning more about wilderness character.

Recommended Background

It is strongly recommended that you complete the free The Wilderness Act of 1964 e-course before beginning this course. Without foundational knowledge of the Wilderness Act, you will not be able to get the most out of this course and could find the content confusing. The Wilderness Act of 1964, Minimum Requirements Analysis, and other e-courses can be found at provalenslearning.com.

Aside from an internet connection, what resources will I need for the course?

No additional resources are required for this course.

Will I get a certificate after completing the course?

Why should I take this course?

Each Eppley e-course is designed collaboratively among experienced instructional designers, subject matter experts, and our partner organizations and institutions. The course curriculum includes current information and best practices in the field and is recognized by national leaders in parks, recreation, and land management. Not only will this course benefit your career by expanding your knowledge base, but it will also enhance your application and problem-solving skills.

For more frequently asked questions, please visit our Help Center.