Geospatial Science in Forest Monitoring and Management

This course explores the role and use of geospatial technologies in the context of vegetation management. Theory and practical application of geographic information system (GIS) software, global navigation satellite system (GNSS) technology, and remote sensing (e.g. satellite imagery, LiDAR) will be used to analyse and solve spatial problems in forests and other vegetated landscapes.

15 points

FORE442 - Application of Information Technology in Forestry FORE342 - Geospatial Science in Forest Monitoring and Management FORE642 - Advanced Geospatial Science in Forest Monitoring and Management

Applied Mathematical Methods

Analytical and numerical methods for engineering problems. Vector calculus. Systems of linear equations. Systems of ordinary differential equations. Partial differential equations. Time series analysis.

15 points

EMTH210

ENCI302

Forest Management

Forest management as decision-making. Operations Research techniques for forest management. Information requirements for forest management planning. Stand level analysis. Forest estate level analysis. Integration of the forest estate with harvesting and marketing decisions. Human factors: role and style of leadership, communication, motivation, teamwork and problem solving.

30 points

ENFO316, FORE316-prior to 2011, FORE319, FORE320, ENFO491-prior to 2011.

Wood Processing

A key management objective of forestry is the production of wood. The course will introduce students to the various wood processing industries, including sawmilling, engineered wood products, pulping, and biofuels. Reference will be made to the most suitable resource for individual products and how forest management can impact on the value of the timber.

15 points

FORE223 - Wood Science or approval of Director of Studies

FORE327 prior 2026, FORE619 prior 2026

Geotechnical Engineering

Mohr's circle; time-dependent soil behaviour; settlement; capacity and failure of foundations; field investigations; slope stability; earth pressure theories and retaining structures.

15 points

ENCN253

ENCI351

Project and Infrastructure Management

Project and infrastructure asset management, procurement methods, estimating, finance and accounting, economic appraisal, uncertainty and decision-making.

15 points

ENCI363, ENCI403

Forest Harvest Planning

Harvest planning brings together knowledge about the forest and the terrain, matching it with harvesting machines and systems knowledge, and then designing the required infrastructure. A good plan ensures it meets environmental and safety expectations and provides details on operational expenses, setting production targets and contract supervision. Tools such as costing methods and advanced cable yarding planning software will be taught.

15 points

FORE205 (01 Jan 2010 - present) or FORE305 (01 Jan 2009 - present) or FORE305 (01 Jan 2009 - present)

ENFO422