1. Introduction to Forestry
Elements of Forestry
Kenneth Williams
Fisheries Extension Specialist
Langston University Aquaculture Extension Program

2. Syllabus
AS Elements of Forestry

6. 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.

7. Forest benefits Erosion control Flood prevention
Reduction of wind erosion
Recreation

8. 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.

9. What is a forest? A continuous canopy of large trees
30% of Earth’s land surface
Trees are the dominant vegetation however, many (1000’s), of plant and animal species are found in the forest.

10. Tree classification 2 broad categories:
Angiosperms – encased seeds ex. Pecan
Gymnosperms – naked seeds ex. Pine
Pine seeds
Pecan seeds

11. Tree classification Two classes of angiosperms
Monocotyledones – ex. Palm tree (parallel veined leaves)
Dicotyledones – ex. Broad-leaved trees

12. Tree 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.

13. Tree 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.

14. THE END