Forest and Woodland Management

The module examines the social, environmental, and economic aspects of sustainable forest and woodland management, while appreciating the role of these habitats in the provision of ecosystem services and biodiversity conservation. The module focuses on the transformation of Ireland’s forest cover and introduces the concept of sustainable forestry and timber and non-timber products as an alternative land use within an agricultural setting. Practical work will include the identification of native, introduced and conifer species which will be mapped to different forest and woodland types. 

1. Provide an overview of global and in particular, Ireland’s forest industry and identify the role of the main stakeholders

2. Evaluate national forest policy and grant aid structures in terms of sustainable woodland management.

3. Demonstrate an ability to identify native, introduced species as well as woodland associated flora and fauna.

4. Describe and contrast the ecology and ecosystem services provided by plantation and natural woodlands

5. Demonstrate an in-depth appreciation of the multifunctional role of forestry in terms of balancing production with ecosystem services and biodiversity protection

6. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the site specific silvicultural system adopted for both commercial forests and natural woodlands