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Forestry Minor


Minor

Forestry is one of the signature programs at Paul Smith’s. The Forestry Minor, consisting of 5 courses (21 credits) plus the summer forestry block, provides students in other programs the opportunity to get a basic education in forestry. Anyone seeking employment in the woods (environmental scientists, biologists, wildlife managers, natural resource managers, etc.) can broaden their training and learn about the multiple uses of forests through the Forestry Minor.

Contact the Department Chairperson

Requirements :

Completion of communication foundation and one communication structural experiences.

Minor Requirements:

Introduction To Forestry
Course Code:
FOR 101
Course Description:
A lecture and laboratory course which gives students a broad survey of forestry history, federal, state and private forest management, timber harvesting practices, outdoor recreation, wildlife, silviculture, mensuration, and aspects of the forest products industry. The laboratory is designed to get students into the woods and introduce the use of hand tools, saws, mechanized equipment and safe woodworking practices. The course covers procedures for measuring trees, wildlife habitat improvement, scaling, and running a compass line. (2 hours lecture, 4 hours lab).
Credit:
3
Corequisites:
Coreq: FOR 101 Lecture, FOR 101 Lab
x
FOR 101
Introduction To Forestry
3
Dendrology
Course Code:
FOR 110
Course Description:
The identification, taxonomy, ecology, geographic ranges and uses of trees of North America with emphasis on the commercially-important species. Field trips survey native Adirondack trees, shrubs, and some introduced ornamentals. (2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab). Completes General Education Requirements:AR-F, LAS
Credit:
3
Corequisites:
Coreq: FOR 110 Lecture, FOR 110 Lab
x
FOR 110
Dendrology
3
Summer Forestry Block

FOR 206, FOR 240, and SRV 201 are Summer session courses.

Forest Production Processes
Course Code:
FOR 206
Course Description:
This course is designed to develop knowledge of and experience in safe and efficient practices related to forest production processes. In addition, students will study the interrelationships between timber and lumber production, including log bucking, scaling and grading, lumber manufacturing and grading, and lumber and grade recovery. The emphasis is on understanding systems related to forest production processes, from harvesting to lumber manufacturing and drying. (Two (2) 40 hour weeks). Prerequisites: MAT 125 Algebra and FOR 101 Intro to Forestry and FOR 110 Dendrology.
Credit:
2
Prerequisites:
Prereq: (MAT 125 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or MAT 125 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: TR Min Credits: 3.00 Or Accuplacer Math Placement 200.0000 And FOR 110 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 And FOR 101 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00)
x
FOR 206
Forest Production Processes
2

AND

Forest Mensuration I
Course Code:
FOR 240
Course Description:
FOR 240 is an introductory course in forest measurements. Specific subject areas include the use of forest mensuration instruments, standard forest mensuration practices, and basic design of forest inventory systems. The approach to teaching will integrate classroom discussions, field demonstrations and practice, and guidance on student field and data analysis projects. (two (2) 40 hour weeks). Prerequisites: FOR 110 Dendrology and FOR 101 Introduction to Forestry.
Credit:
2
Prerequisites:
Prereq: FOR 110 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 And FOR 101 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00
x
FOR 240
Forest Mensuration I
2

AND

Field Surveying I
Course Code:
SRV 201
Course Description:
Field Surveying I is an intensive introductory course in plane surveying field techniques and plane surveying mathematical computations. Students are introduced to linear distance measurements (taping, electronic distance measurement), vertical measurements using an engineer?s level and field traversing using a theodolite and EDM unit. (Two (2) 40 hour weeks). Prerequisite: MAT 125 Algebra.
Credit:
2
Prerequisites:
Prereq: (MAT 125 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or Accuplacer Math Placement 200.0000 Or MAT 145 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or MAT 180 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or MAT 125 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: TR Min Credits: 3.00 Or MAT 180 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: TR Min Credits: 3.00)
x
SRV 201
Field Surveying I
2
Geospatial Information Tech for Forestry
Course Code:
GIS 230
Course Description:
This course introduces general uses of geospatial information technologies (GIT) - geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and global positioning systems (GPS) - with applications to natural resource management and forestry. Skills in basic mapmaking with GIS software, aerial photos and handheld GPS units are developed. Quantitative skills (such as measuring areas, distances, bearings, heights of objects and elevations of the ground) from aerial photos as well as calculations utilizing computer spreadsheets are emphasized. Forest stand mapping, inventory plot locations using GPS, and stereo aerial photo measurements are applications presented. Prerequisite: MAT 125 Algebra or taken concurrently Completes General Education Requirement:QP-R.
Credit:
3
Prerequisites:
Prereq: Lecture: MAT 125 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or Accuplacer Math Placement 200.0000 Or MAT 180 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or MAT 241 Lecture (May be taken concurrently) Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 Or MAT 125 Lecture Min Grade: TR Min Credits: 3.00
Corequisites:
Coreq: GIS 230 Lecture, GIS 230 Lab
x
GIS 230
Geospatial Information Tech for Forestry
3
__ __
FOR: Forestry Minor Electives
3
Silviculture

Short Title : FOR 260

Course Code : FOR 260

Course Description : This course provides a detailed introduction to different silvicultural systems and practices, with an emphasis on the underlying ecological basis of silviculture and systems in the United States, particularly the Northeast, using the College's surroundings as a "laboratory". (2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab). Prerequisites: FOR 241 Forest Mensuration II. Completes General Education Requirement:AR-R.

Prerequisites : Prereq: Lecture: FOR 241 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00

Corequisites : Coreq: FOR 260 Lecture, FOR 260 Lab

  • Credit : 3
x
Woodlot Management

Short Title : FOR 280

Course Code : FOR 280

Course Description : This course focuses on applied forest ecology in the context of landowner goals and objectives at the woodlot level. Students will be expected to develop management strategies which consider both market and non market products. Application of these concepts will be further reinforced through the development of a woodlot management plan. (2 hour lecture, 3 hour lab). Prerequisites: FOR 235 Timber Harvesting and FOR 241 Forest Mensuration II and GIS 230: Geospatial Information Tech for Forestry. Completes General Education Requirements:AR-R, SC-R.

Prerequisites : Prereq: Lecture: (FOR 241 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 And GIS 230 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 And FOR 235 Lecture Lab combined Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00)

Corequisites : Coreq: FOR 280 Lecture, FOR 280 Lab

  • Credit : 3
x
Forest Ecology

Short Title : FOR 310

Course Code : FOR 310

Course Description : Forest Ecology is the study of composition, structure and function of forest ecosystems. The biotic and abiotic components are analyzed, bringing together climate, soil, physiography, trees and other forest organisms. The ecological principles governing forest establishment, competition, succession and growth are emphasized along with the carbon, nitrogen and water cycle.(3 hours lecture). Prerequisites: (FOR 101 Introduction to Forestry and FOR 110 Dendrology) or BIO 210 General Ecology. Completes General Education Requirements:AR-l, LAS.

Prerequisites : Prereq: ((FOR 101 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 And FOR 110 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00) Or BIO 210 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00)

  • Credit : 3
x
Soils and Hydrology

Short Title : FOR 330

Course Code : FOR 330

Course Description : This course examines the structure and function of soil as a fundamental component of the earth system. The roles of soil in providing vital services to natural and human communities through climate regulation, water and nutrient cycling, as habitat for plants and animals, and by providing humans with food and fiber will be discussed. The laboratory reinforces lecture and is designed to provide students with the ability to collect, analyze, interpret, and communicate soil and hydrologic data. Through this course students will develop a fundamental understanding of soils and hydrology and the role that soil plays in sustainable management of natural resources. 3 hours of lecture, 3 hours of lab. Prerequisite: BIO 210 General Ecology or FOR 310 Forestry Ecology. Completes General Education Requirements:WC-I, QP-I, AR-I, LAS.

Prerequisites : Prereq: Lecture: BIO 210 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 Or FOR 310 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00

Corequisites : Coreq: FOR 330 Lecture, FOR 330 Lab

  • Credit : 4
x
Forest Policy

Short Title : FOR 350

Course Code : FOR 350

Course Description : This course will examine the evolution of forestry as an applied science. Emphasis will be placed on identifying the major scientific and social drivers which have created the emergence of new paradigms in forestry. Policy and actual forestry practices will be examined concurrently to better understand how land-use decisions are made. The scope of this course will range from local forestry issues within the Adirondack Park, to global issues faced in the developing world which, strive to strike a balance between development and preservation. General topics will include historical land-use shifts, environmentalism, economic shifts, interagency conflict, conservation mechanisms, and cross-border forest policies. Prerequisites: NRS 110 Introduction to Environment and Society or FOR 101 Introduction to Forestry Completes General Education Requirements:RE-I, SC-I.

Prerequisites : Prereq: NRS 110 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or FOR 101 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or NRS 110 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00

  • Credit : 3
x
Watershed Management

Short Title : NRS 340

Course Code : NRS 340

Course Description : Water is a basic ingredient in biological, chemical, and physical processes, linking them together in a number of ways to enable ecosystems to function. Properly functioning ecosystems are the foundation on which the long term viability of human economies is based. Watershed management focuses largely on water and manipulating ecosystem components to maintain or repair the functions of water. In this course students will learn the principles of watershed management as related to land form, water quantity and quality, land use practices, and social organizations. The course will teach students the value of the watershed as a unit of study for environmental analysis. Students will understand how land management within the watershed affects water quality. The students will also learn why and how these factors relate to human settlement patterns and the socio-economic conditions in the watershed. The course will emphasize the effect of vegetation on watershed management. (3 hours lecture). Prerequisites: BIO 101 Biology I. Completes General Education Requirement:LAS.

Prerequisites : Prereq: Lecture: BIO 101 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 Or BIO 101 Advanced Studies Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 Or BIO 101 Lecture Min Grade: TR Min Credits: 4.00

  • Credit : 3
x
Click here to see elective courses.
__ __
FOR: Forestry Minor Electives
3
Silviculture

Short Title : FOR 260

Course Code : FOR 260

Course Description : This course provides a detailed introduction to different silvicultural systems and practices, with an emphasis on the underlying ecological basis of silviculture and systems in the United States, particularly the Northeast, using the College's surroundings as a "laboratory". (2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab). Prerequisites: FOR 241 Forest Mensuration II. Completes General Education Requirement:AR-R.

Prerequisites : Prereq: Lecture: FOR 241 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00

Corequisites : Coreq: FOR 260 Lecture, FOR 260 Lab

  • Credit : 3
x
Woodlot Management

Short Title : FOR 280

Course Code : FOR 280

Course Description : This course focuses on applied forest ecology in the context of landowner goals and objectives at the woodlot level. Students will be expected to develop management strategies which consider both market and non market products. Application of these concepts will be further reinforced through the development of a woodlot management plan. (2 hour lecture, 3 hour lab). Prerequisites: FOR 235 Timber Harvesting and FOR 241 Forest Mensuration II and GIS 230: Geospatial Information Tech for Forestry. Completes General Education Requirements:AR-R, SC-R.

Prerequisites : Prereq: Lecture: (FOR 241 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 And GIS 230 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 And FOR 235 Lecture Lab combined Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00)

Corequisites : Coreq: FOR 280 Lecture, FOR 280 Lab

  • Credit : 3
x
Forest Ecology

Short Title : FOR 310

Course Code : FOR 310

Course Description : Forest Ecology is the study of composition, structure and function of forest ecosystems. The biotic and abiotic components are analyzed, bringing together climate, soil, physiography, trees and other forest organisms. The ecological principles governing forest establishment, competition, succession and growth are emphasized along with the carbon, nitrogen and water cycle.(3 hours lecture). Prerequisites: (FOR 101 Introduction to Forestry and FOR 110 Dendrology) or BIO 210 General Ecology. Completes General Education Requirements:AR-l, LAS.

Prerequisites : Prereq: ((FOR 101 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 And FOR 110 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00) Or BIO 210 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00)

  • Credit : 3
x
Soils and Hydrology

Short Title : FOR 330

Course Code : FOR 330

Course Description : This course examines the structure and function of soil as a fundamental component of the earth system. The roles of soil in providing vital services to natural and human communities through climate regulation, water and nutrient cycling, as habitat for plants and animals, and by providing humans with food and fiber will be discussed. The laboratory reinforces lecture and is designed to provide students with the ability to collect, analyze, interpret, and communicate soil and hydrologic data. Through this course students will develop a fundamental understanding of soils and hydrology and the role that soil plays in sustainable management of natural resources. 3 hours of lecture, 3 hours of lab. Prerequisite: BIO 210 General Ecology or FOR 310 Forestry Ecology. Completes General Education Requirements:WC-I, QP-I, AR-I, LAS.

Prerequisites : Prereq: Lecture: BIO 210 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 Or FOR 310 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00

Corequisites : Coreq: FOR 330 Lecture, FOR 330 Lab

  • Credit : 4
x
Forest Policy

Short Title : FOR 350

Course Code : FOR 350

Course Description : This course will examine the evolution of forestry as an applied science. Emphasis will be placed on identifying the major scientific and social drivers which have created the emergence of new paradigms in forestry. Policy and actual forestry practices will be examined concurrently to better understand how land-use decisions are made. The scope of this course will range from local forestry issues within the Adirondack Park, to global issues faced in the developing world which, strive to strike a balance between development and preservation. General topics will include historical land-use shifts, environmentalism, economic shifts, interagency conflict, conservation mechanisms, and cross-border forest policies. Prerequisites: NRS 110 Introduction to Environment and Society or FOR 101 Introduction to Forestry Completes General Education Requirements:RE-I, SC-I.

Prerequisites : Prereq: NRS 110 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or FOR 101 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00 Or NRS 110 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 3.00

  • Credit : 3
x
Watershed Management

Short Title : NRS 340

Course Code : NRS 340

Course Description : Water is a basic ingredient in biological, chemical, and physical processes, linking them together in a number of ways to enable ecosystems to function. Properly functioning ecosystems are the foundation on which the long term viability of human economies is based. Watershed management focuses largely on water and manipulating ecosystem components to maintain or repair the functions of water. In this course students will learn the principles of watershed management as related to land form, water quantity and quality, land use practices, and social organizations. The course will teach students the value of the watershed as a unit of study for environmental analysis. Students will understand how land management within the watershed affects water quality. The students will also learn why and how these factors relate to human settlement patterns and the socio-economic conditions in the watershed. The course will emphasize the effect of vegetation on watershed management. (3 hours lecture). Prerequisites: BIO 101 Biology I. Completes General Education Requirement:LAS.

Prerequisites : Prereq: Lecture: BIO 101 Lecture Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 Or BIO 101 Advanced Studies Min Grade: D Min Credits: 4.00 Or BIO 101 Lecture Min Grade: TR Min Credits: 4.00

  • Credit : 3
x
Click here to see elective courses.
Total Credits 21

Contact Information

Forestry

Dr. Brett McLeod

Pickett Hall 107

518-327-6990

bmcleod@paulsmiths.edu

 


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