Ecosystem based multi-use forest management planning in Mediterranean forests

30 ECTS specialization sub-programme at Karadeniz Technical University (Turkey)

Specialization U Karadeniz 2022

Specialization U Karadeniz 2020

 

The subprogram intends to provide students with knowledge on modeling and management of forest ecosystems in the Mediterranean region. There are four major components of the program; multi-use forest management planning with modeling approach, the use of Geographic information systems (GIS), biodiversity conservation and forest fire management. Multiple values such as biodiversity conservation, water production, carbon sequestration and timber and non-timber forest products are characterized and integrated into forest management planning.

Decision making techniques (operations research) are used in developing forest management decision support systems as tools to test and better understand forest dynamics under various management scenarios. Both remote sensing and geographic information systems provide technological power to create spatial forest database with thematic maps and attributes, and allow students to conduct various spatial analysis to capitalize on the development of an on-the-ground forest management plans.

Basic and applied knowledge about biodiversity conservation focusing on both plant biodiversity and wildlife management provides excellent biological foundation and understanding of forest ecosystems for sustainable management of forest resources. Forest fire management including fires risks, fire ecology and fuel modeling is an integral part of the specialization sub-program.

Courses
  1. Concepts and Principles of Geographic Information Systems in Forestry (7.5 ECTS)
  2. Forest Dynamics and Modelling (7.5 ECTS)
  3. Protecting Biodiversity in Forest Ecosystems (7.5 ECTS)
  4. Principles of Identifying Vascular Plants (7.5 ECTS)
  5. Fire Ecology (7.5 ECTS)
  6. Forest Ecosystem Management (7.5 ECTS)
  7. Using Satellites Images in Forest Ecosystems (7.5 ECTS)
  8. Advanced Statistics (7.5 ECTS)