Program

Associate of Applied Science in Forest Management

Sound forestry practices are more important today than ever before. Responsible and sustainable management of renewable resources and the environment during a time of increasing demand for forestry goods and services represents a tremendous challenge to today’s foresters. Issues in forest management, forest ecology, reforestation, and reclamation are central to Hocking’s Forest Management program.

As a forest technician, your responsibilities will include collection and interpretation of forest data, documentation of environmental conditions, prescribing and implementing forest management practices, checking contract compliance, supervision of field crews and public relations. The program combines a solid academic background with extensive field training. Classroom work is followed by field experience in the safe use of tools and equipment as well as conducting forest inventories, planting trees, wildland fire fighting, and trips to area forestry institutions and businesses.

Program Outcomes

The following outcomes are skills, behaviors, and attitudes cultivated in students seeking the Associate of Applied Science in Forest Management:

• Identifies species of trees using individual characteristics, dichotomous keys and site information;
• Applies knowledge of forest ecology, including plant succession, soils, environmental protection, weather/climate influences, and relations of trees to other organisms;
• Practices sound silviculture and reforestation techniques;
• Protects and enhances wooded environments with fire control and use.
• Uses knowledge of the impact of, and methods for controlling insects, diseases and animals;
• Correctly uses equipment and techniques to perform forest and tree measurements;
• Correctly performs land surveys;
• Performs aerial photo and map interpretation;
• Uses effective harvesting techniques, including safe and environmentally sound operation of equipment;
• Collects and analyzes data toward the development and implementation of a project;
• Implements sound forest management plans with an understanding of multiple use principles and awareness of forest products utilization;
• Demonstrates proactive supervision and inspection skills for compliance and enforcement of forest management practices /projects; and,
• Demonstrates effective communication, math, computer and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrates professionalism and a strong work ethic.
• Practices business management and marketing techniques to attain set targets/goals in a cost effective manner.
• Demonstrates safe working practices.
• Cultivates lifelong learning.

Curriculum

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Forest Management program are eligible for employment with public and private forestry organizations and operate forestry equipment ranging from a hand compass to the surveyor’s transit to chainsaws and bulldozers. Students are qualified for positions such as forestry technician, nursery operator, timber cruiser, restoration and reforestation specialist, fire prevention and suppression worker, insect and disease control technician, and log grader. 

Occupation Profile