Second year at Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences: Module 1

Sustainable Forestry in Southern Sweden

Course objectives: The course will provide overviews of key theoretical and practical elements of forestry in southern Sweden. Silvicultural and ecological issues associated with contemporary forestry will be studied in depth. After completing the course the students should be able to: (i) Assess the implications and importance of silvicultural research for contemporary forestry. (ii) Compare forestry in countries with similar natural conditions, and analyse variations due to differences in tradition, economic circumstances, social needs and preferences, etc. (iii) Identify the most significant nature-values in the boreal and nemo-boreal zones of southern Scandinavia. (iv) Describe and analyse the impact of modern forestry on nature values and suggest measures to mitigate adverse effects. (v) Read scientific literatures and communicate key ideas, results and conclusions

Course contents: The first learning outcome is reached through lectures, group projects and extensive field exercises and excursions. Furthermore, external lecturers from different forest organisations working in the region are invited to share their views on issues in contemporary forestry, e.g. adaptation to storm incidences, climate change and the wood market. The second learning outcome is reached thanks to the international student group. Students have different backgrounds and are educated with emphasis on different aspects of the forestry resource. International practices are discussed continuously during the course. In addition lectures are offered by teachers from different countries. The third and forth learning outcomes are achieved through lectures, literature seminars and field studies, where topics of vegetation history, identification of valuable biotopes and restoration of landscapes are covered. The fifth learning outcome concerning generic skills is reached through a series of group projects, were students present their work individually, in cross groups. Feedback is given both on written materials and oral presentations.

Implementation:

Requirements for examination: Assessment is based on performance in written examinations (mid-course and final), presentation of group assignments and individual assignments. Successful completion of the course requires: passes in the examinations, satisfactory appraisals of group and individual assignments and participation in compulsory activities