Course Objectives: The objective of this course is to introduce students to the terminology, concepts, and theory related to forest ecology and provide them an opportunity to study the factors regulating forest structure, function, and dynamics.

Learning Outcomes:
This course satisfies UGA’s Semester Environmental Literacy Requirement and General Education Abilities. At the completion of this course, students should be able to:

o	Discuss basic scientific concepts and principles which govern managed and unmanaged forest systems.

o	Apply concepts and principles of ecology to address real-world issues related to forest management.

o	Critically analyze the ecological costs and consequences of management activities on local, regional, and global forest systems. 

o	Communicate effectively through writing, speech, and poster presentation the factors regulating forest structure, function, and dynamics.
•	Assimilate, analyze, and present in written and oral forms, a body of information.
•	Interpret content of written materials for various academic and professional contexts.
•	Produce writing and communication that is stylistically appropriate and mature.
•	Adapt communication to circumstances and audiences.
•	Communicate in various modes and media, including the proper use of appropriate technology.

o	Engage in complex thought, analysis, and reasoning as they relate to forest ecosystem processes and management.
•	Consider and engage opposing points of view.
•	Communicate for academic and professional contexts.
•	Support a consistent purpose and point of view.
•	Assimilate, analyze a body of information
•	Analyze arguments

o	Develop an understanding of the ethics theory related to decision-making and develop an understanding of the basis of ethical principles, codes, and standards of conduct as they relate to forest ecosystem processes and their management.
•	Recognize the community and the greater common good in addition to individual needs and goals.
•	Judge and understand ethical behavior in social applications.
•	Apply societal ethics to scientific inquiry.

Topical Outline: 
•	Forest Ecology Terminology and Concepts; Global Relevance; Climatic Controls; Landscape Patterns
•	Temporal Dynamics of Forests: Disturbance; Succession
•	Forest Structure and Dynamics: Biodiversity; Species Interactions
•	Forest Ecosystem Processes I: Soils; Primary Productivity
•	Forest Ecosystem Processes II: Forest Nutrition; Biogeochemistry; Herbivory
•	Forest Ecosystem Stability Then, Now, and into the Future