About Us

The Natural Resources Institute is interdisciplinary. We integrate knowledge gained from the natural and social sciences to develop holistic perspectives on environmental and natural resources management problems. Research conducted at the NRI may have an economic, social, or ecological perspective, or may integrate all three disciplines.

The NRI also encourages a diverse culture that respects differences and similarities among nationalities and academic backgrounds. Students and faculty are from all over the world, and it is typical to hear a number of different languages in the hallways.

The NRI does not have undergraduates, but we regularly partner with other departments, such as Environment and Geography, to include undergraduates in some courses and to integrate undergraduates into field research.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Natural Resources Institute is to create, preserve, communicate and apply interdisciplinary knowledge in areas of resource and environmental management, and thereby contribute to the well-being of the people of Manitoba, Canada and the World.

Fundamental Characteristics of the NRI

• A broad and distinctive view of management that encompasses planning, policy making, decision making, implementation and evaluation;
• A focus on sustainable resource and environmental management, and the integrity of social-ecological systems;
• Community-focused and participatory approaches to resource and environmental management;
• Holistic, interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches, including an examination of ethics, equity and social justice;
• Integration of theory and practice; and,
• Linking knowledge with real-world problems to respond to emerging societal needs.