Introduction to ForestryIntroduction to Forestry

Kenneth WilliamsFisheries Extension Specialist Langston University Aquaculture Extension Program

Elements of Forestry

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AS 3413 Elements of Forestry

Why are forests important?Why are forests important?

Food Medicine Fuel Tools Lumber Over half the wood harvested is used for heating

fuel. Over 10,000 products made from wood.

Forest benefitsForest benefits

Erosion control Flood preventionReduction of wind erosionRecreation

What is forestry?What is forestry?

The art, science and practice of managing the natural resources of forestland for human benefit.

The forester is a land manager responsible for all the goods, benefits and services that flow from the forest.

What is a forest?What is a forest?A continuous canopy of large trees30% of Earth’s land surfaceTrees are the dominant vegetation however,

many (1000’s), of plant and animal species are found in the forest.

Tree classificationTree classification

2 broad categories:Angiosperms – encased seeds ex. PecanGymnosperms – naked seeds ex. Pine

Pine seedsPecan seeds

Tree classificationTree classification

Two classes of angiosperms– Monocotyledones – ex. Palm tree (parallel

veined leaves)– Dicotyledones – ex. Broad-leaved trees

Tree classificationTree classification

Because broad-leaved trees lose their leaves each fall they are also called deciduous trees. Exception to this rule occur. Ex. Magnolia trees.

Deciduous trees are also called hardwoods.

Although many have quite soft-textured wood.

Tree classificationTree classification

Gymnosperms bear their seeds in cones. They are often called conifers.

The ginkgo is an exception.Conifers do not usually lose their needles in

the fall and therefore are called evergreens.Exceptions are the bald cypress and larch.Conifers are also referred to as softwoods,

although their wood may be quite hard.

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