Forestry Foundations

This course introduces forestry from tree value and timber types through to harvesting, milling and processing wood. You will learn about plantation management, forestry for conservation and restoration, and the growing fields of agroforestry and urban forestry. The course finishes with a project planning commercial timber production on a small woodlot. Suitable for those interested in forestry, woodland management or planning a small scale timber operation.

Lesson 1 The Scope, Nature and Fundamentals of Forestry Introduction to Forests Tree Value Understanding Wood Tools in Forestry Power Tools and General Tool Maintenance Deciding on Tools in Agroforestry Applications Extending Chain Life Duty of Care in The Workplace Protective Equipment Lesson 2 Timber Types Introduction to Timber and Forest Products Different Types of Wood and Their Uses Composites Lesson 3 Harvesting Tree Felling and Stump Removal Protecting Trees National Tree Registers Keeping the Work Site Safe Duty of Care Costing Jobs Lesson 4 Milling and Processing Introduction to Processing Timber Turning Trees into Timber Reviewing Saws Effecting of Shrinkage Wood Preservation in Cut Timber Lesson 5 Plantation and Forestry Management Introduction Key terms Silviculture Shelterbelts Pruning and Thinning Lesson 6 Conservation & Restoration Forestry Introduction to conservation and restoration Forestry for Wildlife Conservation Forestry for Erosion Control Forestry for Salinity Control Design Options including wide-spaced, clump and cluster and woodlots Lesson 7 Agroforestry Introduction to agroforestry Benefits of Agroforestry including carbon sinks and credits Agroforestry in Farming Future Developments Lesson 8 Urban Forestry Introduction to Urban Forestry Selecting Tree Species Where to Plant Environmental and Health Benefits of Trees in Urban Environments Production Benefits of Trees in Urban Environments Lesson 9 PBL: Planning a Commercial Timber Production Project Based Activity: to write a plan for commercial timber production on a small 5-acre woodlot, taking account of the site specific and environmental considerations. This is jampacked course which will give you the solid foundation needed for working with trees. You will: Visit forests where possible - these could be native forests, on farms or state own plantations. Review tools used in forestry operations. Conduct research into current employment opportunities. Research specific tree species of interest or those found in your region. Investigate wooden products found in your home or workspace. Assess and plan tree for removal of a particular tree. Collect images of sawing patterns as a resource file. Connect with timber preservation processors to expand knowledge on wood treatments and processes. Develop a pruning guide. Investigate international forestry conservation projects. Contact the forestry commission or department of environment and agriculture to explore the current preferences, trends and specifications relating to forest design. Watch online videos explaining agroforestry principles and practices to support your learning. Visit rural locations to identify agroforestry in the region near you. Deepen your understanding of trees for agricultural purposes by examining farms and trees. Become familiar with local government projects or initiatives in urban forestry. Report on observations of urban forestry in your region. Interview two people or what they know or understand about urban forestry and the impacts on their lives. Write a schedule for commercial timber production (a tutor supported project at the end of the course). Check out this activity taken right out of the course materials! Set Task Activity Lesson 1 You should try to visit either of the following: Natural forests and/or woodlands in your area. Take pictures if possible. Aim to visit at least one natural woodland. One plantation or woodlot which you can safely and legally enter. Again, take pictures if possible. The purpose of the activity is to immerse yourself in the surroundings of the forest or plantation. Make notes on the following based on your observations - Species diversity Density of the plantation or forest Canopy cover and light availability The forest floor – i.e. ground species or lower level species Fauna species present Man-made structures or controls i.e. gates, tree guards etc, signage Agricultural businesses within proximity of the forest of plantation Spend around 1 hour on this task.