The NRDLC, an organization formed in 2003 with the support of USDA‐Forest Service, delivers courses to web‐based learners who are either currently working in the natural resource professions or who are hoping to enter the field. Currently the organization consists of 10 accredited university members as well as various federal agency partners. NRDL members offer over 350 distance learning courses, 11 degrees, and 18 certificates. Kieran Lindsey, the NRDLC director, will present an overview of the organization, its history, and its impact. Additionally, Bill Woodland, National Partnership & Volunteers Program Manager at USDA‐Forest Service, will discuss the needs of federal resource management agencies and their employees that can be met through distance learning, as well as the motivation behind USDA‐FS financial support of NRDLC\u27s development
