Forestry (B.S.)
Forestry is the application of scientific
principles to the sustainable management
of forest resources, including alternative forest
products (e.g., wildlife, medicinal herbs,
craft materials, etc.). The primary goal of the
Forestry program is to produce technically
competent forest and natural resources managers
who understand the ecological notions
that underpin human use of forest resources.
Students receive training in the various techniques
used to determine resource quantities
and qualities, economic values, and
social constraints in management of natural
resources.
Forestry is the application of scientific principles to the management forest resources, including non-wood products. The primary goal of the forestry program is to produce technically competent forest and natural resources managers who understand the ecological, economic, social and legal basics that underpin human uses of natural resources. Students are trained in the various techniques used to determine resource quantities and qualities, economic values, resource productivity, and social constraints in management of natural and forest resources. The forestry field is continually changing in response to new understanding about ecological functions and emerging modern technologies like global positioning systems, geographic information systems, and computerized data collection. The demand for foresters in United States is increasing, particularly in the southwest.
Academic Purpose and Objectives
The purpose of the degree in Forestry is to train students for professional careers in the scientific and technical management of forests and natural resources. Forestry, as practiced in the USA, integrates diverse technical disciplines to ensure the sustainable production of forest resources (wood fiber, wildlife, plant materials, and water).
Specific objectives of the academic program are:
- Students will have a mathematical and scientific background commensurate with understanding the technical basis of forestry.
- Students will develop communication skills that allow them to effectively transmit technical information to professional and non-professional audiences.
- Students will be able to integrate information from a variety of technical disciplines (e.g., botany, soil science, ecology, etc.) to develop ecologically-based management plans for forest resources.
- Students will be able to utilize standard forestry techniques for measurement and analysis of timber stands, ecosystems, and economics critical to management of natural resources.
Relationship to Other Programs at Other New Mexico Universities
The Forestry program described herein is the first and only 4-year, bachelors degree granting, Forestry program in New Mexico. For many years, NMSU, NMHU, and other institutions have offered a pre-Forestry programs, from which students could transfer to Northern Arizona University, or, Colorado State University.
Students that major in Forestry are not
required to take a minor. A summer field
course is required of all students prior to
their graduation. Students who wish to
pursue graduate degrees should talk to an
advisor about recommended coursework.
The two concentrations within the Forestry
major are Forestry and Wildland Fire. |
