PWSC's Introduction to Forestry (BIOL A139) class teaches much more than standard forestry techniques.

Henry Wessels, a natural resources technician program student, enjoyed his Introduction to Forestry class. The class included a week-long field trip to Cordova, Alaska, focusing on forest management, utilization, and conservation. It covered cultural, ecological, and technical factors influencing forest use and management.

Wessels shared his field trip experiences and post-trip comments:

"Our trip to Cordova, Alaska, was a great success both educationally and recreationally. On the first day, we had a presentation from Madison Seigler, a forestry technician with the Chugach Ranger District of Chugach National Forest, who introduced us to various forestry tools. We learned about and used the clinometer, increment borer, basal area factor prism, and diameter tape near the Haystack Trailhead in the temperate rainforest setting. By the end of the day, we felt confident using these tools and valued the hands-on experience."

Henry's journal notes from day one read, "The rain was intermittent but timely. Trudging through the temperate rainforest. Our Xtratuf boots were extra tough and will be needed tomorrow. There's a forecast for up to 2 inches of rain. Today, we collected a surplus of core samples and had good practice with the tools. Data collection is scheduled for Thursday."

On the second day, the group met with the Copper River Watershed Project (CRWP) and received a fascinating presentation on environmental conservation and restoration strategies. "Field work involved measuring stream depths and widths, calculating discharge rates, and observing and noting minnow trap collections. One of the important missions of the CRWP is improving access to upstream habitats for Chinook and Coho salmon. Witnessing this work firsthand was eye-opening and a great real-world connection to the classroom."

Henry's journal notes from day two facetiously stated, "...cold hands, wet socks, can't lose. The full Cordovan experience."

Days three and four included a boat ride to Hawkins Island to evaluate a population of Yellow Cedars, a trip to the Cordova Historical Museum to view an art exhibit on the Boreal Forest, and an in-depth tree plot survey incorporating skills and knowledge introduced earlier in the week.

"As with the best field trips, along with the field work, we appreciated the downtime and took advantage of it. We had the opportunity to shop in town, hike to an overlook in the forest and a viewpoint of the Sheridan Glacier, and some students even got the chance to do some shoreside sea kayaking."

"In summary, this trip was a perfect mix of learning and adventure. The experience deepened our understanding of natural resource management and forestry practices, emphasizing the importance of approaching development with sustainability in mind."

Henry's final journal entry: "Late afternoon waterfront scribbling. Eight sea otters are in sight. Eagle just abandoned his post. Low-hanging clouds cast shadows on the precipice of the tree line. The air is cool, but the sun is warming. The tree plot exam earlier today provided real-world experience. Techniques are improving. Not ready to leave, but morning comes quick."