Introduction to Forest Systems

Nothing to point

The course is organised in theoretical-practical classes which correspond in a first part to a theoretical exposition and in a second part to practical application exercises, whether they are field classes, discussion or presentation of themes.

As  learning outcomes students will be able to:

1) Recognize the basic components of forests;

2) know the main forest resources and the diversity of uses that society gives to them

3) Identify relevant issues in the various fields of forest sciences and natural resources, recognizing the context in which they arise and develop and the professional knowledge needed to address them.

Introduction to the study of forest resources

Historical evolution of the use and management of natural resources.

The forests in the world, and in the European continent

The forests in continental Portugal

The tree growth and forest dynamics

The silvicultural systems

Forest operations

Functions of the forest and goods and services provided by forest ecosystems

Climate change and forest disturbances

Institutional framework and the management of forest resources

Issues at stake regarding natural resources management

Continuous assessment comprises the following elements:

1) Class participation (component with a weight of 10% of the grade assigned based on the work developed by the student in the classroom )

2) Realization of a set of practical works on themes proposed by the teacher (component with a weight of 40% of the grade)

3) A written test with a weight of 50% of the final mark.

To pass, the student must have a weighted average of over 9.5 points and a minimum score of 7.5 points in the assessment instruments 2) and 3).

The completion of the practical work is compulsory

Assessment by examination:

Practical work: 50%

Theoretical examination: 50%.

NAO