This module introduces some of the principal pre-harvest activities, after first reviewing basic forest economics. The importance of site assessments (e.g, topographic mapping) and the careful planning of harvesting operations are stressed. Finally, different harvesting practices are introduced as silvicultural treatments.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module, you should be able to:
Calculate net present values at different discount rates.
Recognize the conditions under which different harvesting regimes are appropriate.
Describe the basic components of a harvest plan.
Fundamental Topics
Instructions: Read Topics 7.1 - 7.6 from the embedded FODE014 e-Notebook below for Module 7.
Self-check Quiz (For certificate learning only)
After reading fundamental concepts for this topic, take up to 5 minutes to take an online self-check quiz for the topic. The main purpose of the quiz is for you to self-check how well you grasp the contents for this topic. You can take the quiz a second time if necessary. When you are ready, click the link Online Quiz 7 to start taking the quiz.
Recommended Supplementary Readings
Alder, D. and T.J. Synnott. 1992. Permanent Sample Plot Techniques for Mixed Tropical Forest. Oxford Forestry Institute, University of Oxford, UK.
Condit, R. 1998. Tropical Forest Census Plots. Springer-Verlag, Berlin,
Dykstra, D.P, and R. Heinrich. 1996. FAO Model Code of Forest Harvesting Practice. FAO, Rome, Italy.
On the Module 7 Discussion board, post a brief description of one pitfall you perceive in making decisions based on NPVs.
Graded Assignments
Follow the instructions at Module 7 Assignment to complete and submit the assignments for this module.
Summary
This module introduces the first steps towards sustainable management of natural tropical forest, starting with consideration of the financial costs and benefits of different silvicultural regimes. The importance of mapping and planning are stressed. Timber harvesting is presented as the main, and often the only, silvicultural treatment applied in many tropical forests.
Self Review (For self learning)
Please use the reflection question below as study guide to conduct self-review for the topic:
What is your personal discount rate and why does it differ from the discount rates of society and of wealthy corporations?