In addition to the core curriculum for Forestry, students choose an option, or specialty area. Students declare their chosen option during their sophomore year at ISU.
Forestry Camp
Forestry students attend Fall Forestry Camp during their sophomore year at ISU. This experience often helps students choose their option when they return to campus.
Forest Ecosystem Management
The Forest Ecosystem Management option concentrates on management of the complete forest ecosystem. It deals with the spectrum of forestland use from wilderness preservation to timber harvest to supply the nation's demand for wood products. Students in this option study forest biology, ecology, and management, including recreational use, water quality, timber production, prescribed burns and wildlife habitat.
Careers: District Forester, Land Manager, Park Ranger, Plant Health Care Specialist, Nursery Manager, Forest Ecologist, Forest Fire Fighter, Recreation Specialist
- 2017-2018 Forest Ecosystem Management.pdf
- 2016-2017 Forest Ecosystem Management.pdf
- 2015-2016 Forest Ecosystem Management.pdf
- 2014-2015 Forest Ecosystem Management.pdf
- 2013-2014 Forest Ecosystem Management.pdf
Interpretation of Natural Resources
The Interpretation of Natural Resources option concentrates on natural history, earth science and communication techniques with the basic forestry education background. Students in this option will learn to communicate environmental information and values with the public.
Careers: Environmental Educator, Naturalist, Interpreter, Park Ranger, Extension Educator, Natural Resources Policy or Public Relations worker, Spokesperson
- 2017-2018 FOR Interpretation Of Natural Resources.pdf
- 2016-2017 FOR Interpretation of Natural Resources.pdf
- 2015-2016 FOR Interpretation of Natural Resources.pdf
- 2014-2015 FOR Interpretation of Natural Resources.pdf
- 2013-2014 FOR Interpretation of Natural Resources.pdf
Natural Resource Conservation & Restoration
The Natural Resource Conservation and Restoration option concentrates on the management of natural resources other than timber harvest. Students learn about the care of forests and natural areas with an emphasis on ecosystem conservation and preservation, environmental benefits and human impact.
Careers: Conservation Technician, Wilderness Ranger, Restoration Ecologist, Natural Resource Policy, Environmental Consultant
- 2017-2018 Natural Resource Conservation & Restoration.pdf
- 2016-2017 Natural Resource Conservation & Restoration.pdf
- 2015-2016 Natural Resource Conservation & Restoration.pdf
- 2014-2015 Natural Resource Conservation & Restoration.pdf
- 2013-2014 Natural Resource Conservation & Restoration.pdf
Sustainable Materials Science & Technology
The Sustainable Materials Science and Technology option concentrates on the development and use of wood products ranging from structural lumber to veneer to paper products that we depend on every day. Students in this option study the anatomical, physical and chemical properties of wood and different wood processing operations.
Careers: Industrial Forester, Wood Products Sales, Wood & Bio-based Product Development, Log Procurement Specialist, Mill Plant Manager
- This Option Is Not Offered At This Time
- 2016-2017 Sustainable Materials Science & Technology.pdf
- 2015-2016 Sustainable Materials Science & Technology.pdf
- 2014-2015 Sustainable Materials Science & Technology.pdf
- 2013-2014 Sustainable Materials Science & Technology.pdf
Urban & Community Forestry
The Urban and Community Forestry option concentrates on the management of trees in urban settings such as city parks, greenbelt areas and boulevards. Students learn to implement site assessments, long-term management plans and pest management along with effectively communicating with their peers and the public.
Careers: Arborist, Municipal Forester, Arboretum Director, Plant Health Care Specialist, Nursery Manager
- 2017-2018 Urban & Community Forestry.pdf
- 2016-2017 Urban & Community Forestry.pdf
- 2015-2016 Urban & Community Forestry.pdf
- 2014-2015 Urban & Community Forestry.pdf
- 2013-2014 Urban & Community Forestry.pdf
Core Curriculum
Listed here are the required curriculum for both the current and previous years. These courses are required for all Forestry students no matter which of the above options they choose. These courses act as a foundation for which the classes within the desired option are built upon.