Forest Science
The Forests Act, 1907 established the State Forests Department in Victoria and provided for professional foresters training. By 1910, this had led to the Victorian School of Forestry's establishment. During the late 1920's, the Commonwealth Government also established a forestry training academy, the Australian Forestry School (now part of the Australian National University).
Historically, forests were often seen as an impediment to economic development and cleared and converted to agriculture. Foresters were employed as early as 1910 to oversee the harvest of forests surrounding mining areas. Since then, much research and study has been completed to ensure forests are managed properly. Society now sets a high priority on the sustainable management of forest landscapes and the responsible use of their resources.
The last 50 years has seen substantial changes in forest practices. This rapid evolution in forestry has resulted from research designed to improve our understanding of the forest biological processes, forest ecosystem functioning and human interaction with forests. It has lead to improved harvesting and regeneration techniques and creation of better uses for forest resources.
The goal is to develop sustainable forest management practices to maximise the ecological, economic and social value of the world's forests. The need for research in this area is further underlined by the challenge of global climate change.
Developments
- Harvesting technique evolution designed to mimic natural disturbance
- Regeneration studies, seed treatment, improved germination processes
- Sawmilling and felling techniques
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Bushfire suppression and recovery
- Salvage harvesting
- Habitat retention and biodiversity protection
- Water catchments and stream protection
Current Research Fields
- Forests and Water
- Communities, People and Forests
- Fire Ecology and Management
- Forest Industries and Wood Products
- Forest and Climate Change Research
- Forest Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Ecophysiology and Ecosystem Processes
- Plantations and Health
Research Organisations:
- Bushfire CRC
- CRC Wood Innovations
- CRC for Forestry
- CRC Future Farm Industries
Tertiary Courses:
- Master of Forest Ecosystem Science
- Associate Degree in Forestry Management
- Bachelor of Forest Science (Honours)
- Bachelor of Environments
- Master of Forest Science
- Master of Wood Science