Description
Learning to identify standing trees, in all seasons, is a critical skill in the logging profession, which is a key driver in the regional economy. Additionally, operators must recognize potential forest products in standing trees to maximize value in production. Much of this course will be spent in the field in various forest types learning to identify trees. Tree identification will begin with classroom presentation of Upper Peninsula trees and forest types, tree ID characteristics, use of dichotomous keys, and fundamental elements of tree volume measures. The concept of tree grading will be introduced. Students must be prepared for all weather conditions, have proper clothing, and be physically capable of walking over rough terrain for at least a mile. Field exercises will be designed to perform basic forest measurements, concentrating on correct tree identification. Students will navigate to field sites, utilize GPS, and perform or be exposed to other skills needed in logging sites.