Time Schedule:
Kevin W. Zobrist
F M 461
Seattle Campus
Basic concepts of timber harvest scheduling, sustained-yield models, contemporary analytical techniques, timber supply, and forest product markets. Offered: W.
Class Description
This course will look at forest economics and finance from a forest manager's or landowner's perspective. We will learn the basic tools of financial analysis for forestry, then explore what that means for landowners, investors, foresters, and policymakers. In particular, we will talk about financial analysis of forestry alternatives, economically optimal forest rotations, predicting financial performance of forestry investments, forest taxes, and the economic implications of policy and regulatory decisions. Students will also learn how to use growth and visualization models, spreadsheets, and other technologies for making management decisions towards economic or other objectives. **See the course web site for the syllabus and other information**
Two days each week will be spent in the classroom for lectures, guest speakers, and class discussions. There will also be a weekly session in the computer lab.
Recommended preparation
The FM 360 prerequisite is currently waived for this course. Students should have good algebra skills and a scientific calculator. The course is geared towards students of forestry and natural resources, but it is open to all majors.
Class Assignments and Grading
There will be periodic assignments to practice the concepts covered by the lectures, as well as periodic assigned readings to supplement lecture material. There will also be weekly computer exercises to be completed in class, and students will complete and present a quarter project.
Grades will be based approximately 25% on the midterm exam, 25% on the final exam, 20% on assignments and exercises, 20% on a quarter project, and 10% on participation.
