Expand+FOR10020 Trees and Forests in Ireland
Academic Year 2021/2022
This module will provide an introduction to several different aspects of trees and forestry of relevance in Ireland and worldwide.
One component is the basics of dendrology (tree specie...

Hide-FOR10020 Trees and Forests in Ireland
Academic Year 2021/2022
This module will provide an introduction to several different aspects of trees and forestry of relevance in Ireland and worldwide.
One component is the basics of dendrology (tree species identification). Here, the theoretical concepts of identifying trees will be covered, along with the terminology associated with this. The general characteristics of a number of different tree genera and the specific qualities of a limited number of individual tree species will also be covered.

The second component will provide an introduction to several aspects of forestry, including the basic theory of timber mensuration (tree and timber measurement) and the equipment and methodologies employed in measuring trees and timber; the main characteristics of the major forest biomes, the history of forests and forestry development (in Ireland and abroad), the pattern of tree growth, forest harvesting and the relevance of forests and trees in the global carbon cycle.

Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module students should be able to:
1. Identify a number of tree species, including those used in Irish forestry, based on their winter and summer characteristics.
2. Demonstrate an appreciation and understanding of the history of forestry, forest harvesting, tree growth and forest's role in carbon sequestration.
3. Understand the basic concepts of timber measurement and carry out a practical assessment of tree dimensions and timber measurement.
4. Summarise the key ecological and silvicultural features of the main forest types found around the world.

Indicative Module Content:
Forest sites & urban forestry
Species site requirements -broadleaves
Species site requirements -conifers
Dendrology -tree identification
History of forestry
Forests of the world
Novel technology in forestry
Tree measurement & forest inventory
Tree morphology
Forests and carbon
Timber production and harvesting