Table B Subjects - Master of Forest Ecosystem Science
220503 Bushfires and Biodiversity |
This subject covers the basic effects of fire on aspects of biodiversity and nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Managers are committed to developing science-based ecological burning strategies which achieve both biodiversity and asset protection objectives. Increased knowledge of the ecological impacts of fire on plants, animals and micro-organisms facilitates a better understanding of how more effective management can be achieved. Subject coordinators: Dr Alan York and Dr Julian Di Stefano |
220507 Forests in the Asia Pacific Region |
This subject addresses the policy and governance framework for forest management in international, national and state contexts. It describes policy processes and the role of different actors and the role of different policy instruments and their suitability for achieving policy objectives. Current issues in international forest policy, such as illegal logging and trade, certification and climate change are considered from the viewpoints of different forest policy actors. The course will equip students with an improved capacity for critical thinking in relation to policy issues. This course comprises 14 days (including travel) in two components; in and around Bangkok, Thailand and in the Phillippines. Students sponsored by the National Forestry Masters Program are required to take this subject. Subject coordinator:Prof Rod Keenan |
220508 Timber in the Built Environment |
This subject introduces students to the impact of wood utilisation in the environment, the concepts of sustainability, cradle to grave analysis, ISO 14001 within the context of continuous environmental improvement in an industrial environment, energy and chemical production from biomass. Students will be introduced to concepts in:
Subject coordinators: Prof Peter Vinden and Associate Professor Barbara Ozarska |
220509 Forests, Carbon and Climate Change |
This subject will investigate the role of forests in the carbon cycle and in a changing climate. Students will learn the scientific basis for climate change and the impact that a changing climate might have on tree physiology and forest ecology. We will discuss the role forests play in the global carbon cycle and the degree to which forests or plantations can be used as a carbon sequestration option. We will evaluate the requirements for forest carbon accounting and will apply carbon accounting tools in hands-on accounting sessions with industry partners. This scientific understanding will be extended to discuss policy instruments under consideration in Australia and in the International arena for the potential role of forests in carbon emissions trading. The subject will equip students with state-of-the-art knowledge on the impact of climate change on forest ecosystems and with practical experiences in forest carbon accounting. Subject coordinators: Assoc. Prof. Michael Tausz and Dr Stefan Arndt |
220510 Farm Trees and Agroforestry |
This subject covers the principles and practices of integrating trees into the rural agricultural landscape for both conservation and profit. The farming community require trees and shrubs for shade and shelter, soil conservation, salinity control and aesthetics. Farmers can also produce commercial tree products such as timber, fuel, fodder, essential oils and food. Because farmers manage the majority of the Australian landscape governments, community groups and industry are increasingly working in partnership with them to grow trees for environmental services including carbon sequestration, biodiversity and downstream water quality. Subject coordinators:Rowan Reid |