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Module 2.2

Describe and apply the classification schemes using vegetative, climatic, and edaphic characteristics

Overall objectives of Module 2.2 are to enhance students’ knowledge of and abilities to apply forest ecosystem classification systems at multiple spatial scales, with an emphasis on the utility of different types of biophysical, biogeographic, and bioclimatic data, alone and in combination, to classify forest ecosystems.

Module Objectives

  • Describe how a classification scheme is developed and applied;
  • Be able to identify soils and vegetation to the degree necessary to be used in an ecological classification scheme; and
  • Describe and apply an ecological site classification system.

Module Schedule

This course involves a combination of recorded lectures, readings, assignments and participation in semi-synchronous online discussion forums and synchronous tutorials with instructors and other participants over an 8-week period.

See course content below to get started!

Course Content

Getting Started

  • Getting Started

    Welcome to Module 2.2

Week 1

  • Introductory Lecture

    Using knowledge elements 2.1.1-2.1.5 as the organizational framework to introduce key concepts and related content

  • Core Lecture 1: Forest Ecosystem Classification

    Basic biophysics of light and photosynthesis, gap dynamics, early vs. late successional trees [seed types, tree architecture], shade tolerance classes, tree size and successional status relationships at multiple spatial scales.

  • Core Lecture 2: Stand dynamics

    Conifer vs. hardwood water transport, flood tolerance, wind, temperature, shade, drought tolerance, and other factors that influence the form and functional biology of trees, stands, and forests.

  • Readings

    Description, Classification, and Mapping of Forest Ecosystems

Week 2

  • Core Lecture 3: Coarse Woody Debris

    Stands as operational units, Normal forest concept, Silvicultural intensity continuum: technological forestry vs. ecological forestry; domesticated vs. regulated vs. exploited forest.

  • Supplementary Lectures (not mandatory)

    Forest conservation along urban-rural gradients

  • Reading

  • Discussion Forum 2.2a

    Landscape ecology concepts – landscape structure and maintenance

Week 3

  • Online tutorial

    The online tutorial will give students the opportunity to connect with their instructors and peers to discuss content to-date, answer questions and foster conversations surrounding course materials, and discuss upcoming assignments.

  • Assignment #1

    List and describe common forest ecosystem characteristics at the scale of forested landscapes, forests, and forest stands.

Week 4

  • Discussion Forum 2.2b

    Map scale questions

Week 5

  • Assignment #1 Submission

    Please submit Assignment #1

  • Assignment #2

    Discuss ecosystem dynamics and ecological sustainability of one of Ontario’s three forest regions.

Week 6

  • Assignment #2 Proposal Submission

    Please submit your proposal for Assignment #2

Week 7

  • Online tutorial

    The online tutorial will give students the opportunity to connect with their instructors and peers to discuss content to-date, answer questions and foster conversations surrounding course materials, and discuss upcoming assignments.

Week 8

  • Assignment #2 Submission

    Please submit Assignment #2