Course Objective: Forestry 201, Ecology of North American Forests will introduce concepts of forest ecology and silvics important to the growth and development of trees and forests and the sustainability of forest ecosystems.  Emphasis is on silvics and forest ecology , including the influence of the physical environment or site (atmosphere, topography, and soil conditions), the biological potential or genetics of tree species, the impact of other organisms, and the interrelationships among sites and organisms.

Instructor Objectives: I will serve as a class facilitator to involve the students in class discussions and synthesis of ecological concepts.  I will introduce relevant background materials, present classical concepts, and initiate discussions on current issues of relevance to the understanding and management of trees and forest ecosystems. 

Student Objectives: Develop a professional attitude as a forest resource manager.  Understand and discuss the biotic and abiotic factors relative to the growth and development, and perpetuation of trees and forests in an ecological framework.  Participate in class discussions and ask relevant questions to further your, your classmates, and your instructors body of knowledge.

Prerequisites:  Plant Biology 200,  Biology 307, Plant and Soil Science 240

Text:   Forest Ecology,  Barnes, B.V., D. R. Zak, S. R. Denton, and S. H. Spurr. 1998.  John Wiley and Sons. New York. 4th edition.  774 pp. 
       Note: This is the same text used in FOR 331.

Additional references will be available on reserve in Forestry reading room. 

Evaluations and Grades:  2 intra-term exams    @ 100 pts each = 200 pts
                                     Final exam (non cumulative)    @ 100 pts = 100 pts 
                   6 Quizzes - approx. every 2nd week @ 25 pts each  = 150 pts
                                                                                                                450 possible total pts 

   Grade Percentage = Total points earned by student    X  100
                                         Possible total points

                                      Scale  A 90.0 - 100.0%
                                                  B 80.0 -   89.9%
                                                  C 70.0 -   79.9%
                                                  D 60.0 -   69.9%
                                                  F <60.0%

All exams/quizzes will be announced at least one week in advance.  Only pre-arranged or validated medical excuses will be accepted for rescheduling of an exam or assignment.

Course Outline: This outline provides a general overview of the material to be presented.  Because of class involvement, interest, and interjection of current relevant ecologically related events, the timing of the topics may not exactly conform to the projected dates.