College Catalog

One College Avenue, Williamsport PA 17701-5799 · (570) 326-3761 or (800) 367-9222

Forest Technology (FR)
Academic School: Natural Resources Management
(Effective Fall 2004)

Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.)

The curriculum prepares students for technical and mid-management positions in forestry production, wood processing and manufacturing industries. The course work emphasizes outdoor learning and practical hands-on experience. It provides both an academic and a specialized background needed for a variety of careers in forestry.

Career Opportunities:  Forest fire control; wildlife habitat improvement; maintenance of forest roads, structures, and recreational areas; timber estimation, marking, and stand improvement; pulpwood procurement; logging supervisor; location and survey of forest property lines; lumber inspector; dry kiln operator; lumber yard supervisor; quality control technician; mill manager; and equipment sales.

Recommended High School Subjects:  Four years of English, two years of algebra, and two years of science.

Remediation Strategies:  All students must remediate within the first year. The order of remediation will be math, reading, and English.

Transfer Procedures:  This major is subject to the transfer standards established by the College (see http://www.pct.edu/catalog/TransferringCredits.htm ). Exceptions must be approved by the school dean.

Program Goals:  A graduate of this major should be able to:

• identify selected species of trees and shrubs by their scientific and common names, general uses, site characteristics, and geographic distribution.
• apply the fundamentals of plane surveying, including the use and care of surveying equipment, maps and map-making, and the theory of measurements.
• measure the volume and value of standing timber.
• prepare a forestland management plan for a property using the concepts of multiple use and sustained yield forest management.
• demonstrate knowledge of the silvicultural treatments used to regulate stand composition, regenerate stands, increase growth rates, and improve timber quality.
• apply the basic theories, principles, and techniques used in timber harvesting and demonstrate skills in the operation and maintenance of tools and equipment used to harvest a timber crop.
• describe the life history, food, and habitat requirement of the major game, non-game birds, and mammals of Pennsylvania.
• identify and describe the function of tree parts and of selected plants and describe their relation to soil.
• describe the manufacturing and uses of various forest products and describe the characteristics and structure of common wood species.
• describe the characteristics and control of various forest pests, diseases, and fire problems.
• grade hardwood and softwood logs and lumber based on industry standards.
• develop marketing and logistical skills for the forest industry.
• demonstrate familiarity with the principles of cutting logs into lumber.
• demonstrate basic skills in handling and drying of lumber.
• discern the concepts of plant variability and diversity.
• apply computer skills to forestry related software.
• apply basic GIS/GPS technology to field applications.

NOTE: MTH 180 and MTH 182 are recommended for Forest Technology students desiring to transfer to a four-year degree major.

Accreditation:  The educational program in Forest Technology leading to an Associate of Applied Science in Forest Technology is recognized by the Society of American Foresters.

Pennsylvania College of Technology · One College Avenue · Williamsport, PA 17701 · (570) 326-3761 or (800) 367-9222

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