A.A.S. Forest Technology

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The forest technology program provides a unique combination of knowledge and skills in all aspects of forest technology through a carefully planned combination of classroom lectures, demonstration and hands-on fieldwork. The curriculum's emphasis is on fundamental forestry knowledge and applied field training as well as the relationship between forest technology and managerial needs.

Ranger School Mission Statement

We produce skilled, resilient graduates trained in the measuring, monitoring, utilization and protection of natural resources, for the benefit of society and the sustainability of the global environment.

Forest Technology Program

• SAF Accreditation

A degree in Forest Technology provides students with knowledge of the field practice of forest management, the ability to work and communicate effectively with professional and paraprofessional personnel, and an understanding of the physical, biological and quantitative aspects that form the basis of forestry. The educational program in forest technology, leading to the associate of applied science degree in forest technology, is accredited by the Society of American Foresters (SAF).

Graduates are immediately eligible to find jobs at the technical level and are generally classified as forest technicians or forestry aides in initial employment positions. Forestry agencies and wood-using industries employ forest technicians as an important part of their forest management teams, usually as the “people on the ground” who plan and execute the field practice of forestry, normally under the supervision of a professional forester.

Forest Technology Program Learning Outcomes

1. Describe and analyze forest resources.

   • Understand the ecology of the natural environment, including biotic and abiotic components, interactions, and responses to disturbance.

   • Explain the terminology, components, and hierarchy of integrated forest resources management, and the role of the technician in the process.

2. Explain forestry within the economic realms of wood product industries and societal needs.

   • Explain the terminology and techniques utilized by the forest products industry.

   • Describe how the demands of society influence the forest products industry and the utilization of timber resources.

3. Utilize accepted technical skills and methods required for field and laboratory employment in the forest resources sector.

   • Collect and record a variety of forest resource observations and measurements using appropriate tools and technologies, and to analyze and summarize field data and observations in a meaningful way for a variety of uses.

   • Demonstrate proficiency with maps and remotely sensed images, including an ability to safely navigate to and between field sites under a variety of conditions using various technologies.

   • Demonstrate proficiency interpreting and producing spatially accurate representations of field locations and features.

4. Understand the importance of a positive professional demeanor and strong work ethic.

   • Demonstrate a positive work ethic and the capability to work independently with minimum supervision, as a member of a team, or as a supervisor of a team.

   • Demonstrate an ability to communicate and interact effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing.

Students interested in a baccalaureate degree should investigate the Sustainable Resources Management Department’s bachelor’s degree curriculum. Transfer is possible upon completion of the A.A.S. degree at The Ranger School. Transfer into other baccalaureate programs at ESF may be possible, but students should consult with an advisor in the Undergraduate Admissions office as soon as possible. Students who may consider transferring to a baccalaureate program after graduation from the forest technology program should pay close attention to the footnotes under “freshman year.”

The freshman-year forest technology curriculum consists of general studies courses which may be taken at any accredited four-year, community, or agricultural college, or college of technology.

The second year of the curriculum is offered at The Ranger School. Presented in a varied forest environment, the curriculum’s emphasis is on fundamental forestry knowledge and applied field training as well as the relationship between forest technology and managerial needs. About 50 percent of studies are devoted to field exercises, most of which are held at the school’s James F. Dubuar Forest. This excellent forest backdrop for the technology program provides a diverse laboratory for instructional purposes.

Admission

High school students are encouraged to apply for admission by following the appropriate application procedures. Accepted applicants will be guaranteed a place for their sophomore year at the Wanakena Campus upon successful completion of the first year requirements. Students not applying while in high school should apply in the fall semester of their freshman year of college. All applicants are encouraged to contact The Ranger School to arrange for a tour of the campus and its facilities.

Facilities and Equipment

All classes are taught at The Ranger School, which houses the classrooms, library and computer lab, in addition to student residence facilities. The Ranger School's 2,800-acre forest provides an excellent outdoor laboratory for fieldwork and hands-on learning. Students learn to use a variety of tools that are used in forest technology jobs.