Biological Systems Engineering
Forest Engineering Specialization
Forest engineers apply engineering principles to solve problems in managing forest lands. Forestry has evolved from an emphasis on wood production toward multiple use, ecosystem management and consideration of noneconomic objectives such as retaining biodiversity. Forest engineers help develop the equipment and techniques to plan and carry out forest operations which can meet these changing requirements. Examples include reforestation, harvesting, forest residue management, and development of roads and recreation facilities. Following the sophomore year, students are strongly encouraged to attend an eight-week field course sequence at the UC Forestry Camp near Quincy, followed by a semester of suggested biological science courses at UC Berkeley, as an intercampus visitor. This sequence provides a strong background in forest ecology, planning, and operations. Students complete their engineering programs at Davis, including courses dealing with planning methods, equipment development, and road design. Forest engineers are employed by the U.S. Forest Service and other public agencies, the forest industry, consulting firms, and equipment manufacturers.
Recommended Biological Science Electives
| Quarter Offered | Course & Number | Units | Course Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESPM 182* | 6 | Forest Operations | |
| ESPM 185* | 6 | Silviculture |
(select one course)
| Quarter Offered | Course & Number | Units | Course Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESPM 120* | 5 | Soil Characteristics | |
| I | SSC 100 | 3 | Principles of Soil Science |
* UC Berkeley Campus
Recommended Engineering Electives
| Quarter Offered | Course & Number | Units | Course Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | ABT 180 | 4 | Introduction to Geographical Information Systems |
| III | EBS 114 | 3 | Field Machinery Design |
| III | EBS 115 | 3 | Forest Engineering |
| I,III | ECI 141 | 3 | Engineering Hydraulics |
| I,III | ECI 141L | 1 | Engineering Hydraulics Laboratory |
| III | ECI 145 | 4 | Hydraulic Structure Design |
Additional Recommended Courses
| Quarter Offered | Course & Number | Units | Course Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESPM 101* | 15 | Forestry Summer Program | |
| III | PLB 119 | 3 | Population Biology of Weeds |
(select one course)
| Quarter Offered | Course & Number | Units | Course Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| ESPM 172* | 4.5 | Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing | |
| I | ERS 185 | 4 | Aerial Photo Interpretation and Remote Sensing |
* UC Berkeley Campus
Suggested Adviser:
B. Hartsough