FOR 222: Forestry Field Methods

Course Code: FOR 222

Course Description

In this course, students learn a variety of basic field techniques used in forestry, including tree/forest measurements and inventory techniques, land navigation with GPS and orienteering with a map and compass. The course assumes no prior knowledge of forestry and is mostly outdoor-lab-based, with classroom lectures providing context and supplemental learning to facilitate field exercises. Grading is based on field examinations that test proficiency in field techniques, including outdoor exams / quizzes and homework assignments.

Course Goals and Objectives

The goals of this course are: (i) to get hands-on training with basic forest measurement tools and learn forest data collection methods; and (ii) to learn basic techniques for navigating through and surveying forest ecosystems. This is a required course for Forestry majors but is a recommended course for any students interested in learning the basics of forest ecosystems measurements. Major course objectives are for students to learn to:

Measure basic tree attributes
Characterize tree timber and volume components
Navigate to and from locations within forests
Characterize forest structure and stocking using point, plot and line/transect surveys