Forest Law and Policy

Our nation’s forests have long been one of our most treasured natural resources. Forests provide clean water and air, habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna, recreational opportunities, wood fiber, and other products for human and non-human use. Decisions on how to prioritize among these amenities often provoke a debate that can cause deep divisions among people. These issues play out at local, state, and national levels among an array of public, private, and governmental interests.

First, this class will provide an initial historical, legal, and policy framework for the debate surrounding our national forest heritage. Discussions with forest activists, lawyers, community foresters, congressional staff, industry representatives, members of the media, and political appointees will help participants fully understand the many aspects of modern forest management. Second, students will participate in a semester-long simulation of real-world situations that will require students to draw on lectures, the law, and policy choices in order to complete three short, written assignments. This class will fulfill the “B” writing requirement.

Meets B writing requirement.