Modules for course 5DLD | BSC/CWF4
BSc Conservation with Forestry (four year)

Compulsory Modules

Semester 1

• ONS-1001: Environmental data & analysis (20)
  This module, unlike most others, concentrates on giving the student the basic literature searching, numerical and statistical skills required for pursuing the rest of their respective programmes of study. The course relies heavily on computer-based material and so the student also learns how to use and evaluate on-line information, as well as how to converse, discuss and learn via the Blackboard software package. The course starts with an introduction to the Information Literacy Cycle, issues of plagiarism and how to avoid it, and good practice for citing and referencing. Thereafter, the course concentrates on key aspects of any science degree. Lectures introduced include: distributions of populations within scientific data; ideas of probability; unit systems used within science; accuracy and precision; algebraic manipulation; graphing linear systems; and coping with non-linearity in natural systems. Included as part of this will be an introduction to the use of excel and powerpoint - two software packages which are almost essential in the life of an undergraduate student. Following these mainly numerically-related lectures, the module focuses on the scientific method, hypothesis setting and testing; these leading to the fundamental ideas concerning experimental design. These concepts then extend to discussing the importance of replication in scientific datasets. Finally, an introduction to specific statistical tests (parametric and non-parametric) is presented. Library searching and referencing Introduction to distributions within scientific data Ideas of probability Description of distributions Preamble to MS Excel On-line exercises Presentation with MS Powerpoint Unit systems used in science Accuracy & precision. How many decimal places? Introduction to algebraic manipulation Graphing of linear systems Coping with non-linearity in nature (logs etc.) The scientific method: hypothesis setting and testing Introduction to experimental design The importance of replication in scientific datasets Examples of statistical tests: parametric versus non-parametric Regression and correlation ANOVA
  or
  ONC-1001: Dadansoddi Data Amgylcheddol (20)
  Mae'r modiwl hwn, yn wahanol i'r rhan fwyaf o fodiwlau eraill, yn canolbwyntio ar roi i'r myfyrwyr y sgiliau chwilio, rhifyddol ac ystadegol sylfaenol sydd eu hangen i ddilyn gweddill eu rhaglenni astudio. Mae'r cwrs yn dibynnu'n drwm ar ddeunydd cyfrifiadurol ac felly mae'r myfyriwr yn dysgu hefyd sut i ddefnyddio a gwerthuso gwybodaeth ar-lein yn ogystal â sut i sgwrsio, trafod a dysgu trwy gyfrwng pecyn meddalwedd Blackboard. Mae'r cwrs yn dechrau gyda chyflwyniad byr i system gyfrifiadurol y Brifysgol ( yn ystod yr Wythnos Groeso) ac yna'n symud ymlaen yn yr wythnos gyntaf i drafod rôl llenyddiaeth a thechnegau chwilio llenyddiaeth yn eu hastudiaethau yn y dyfodol. Ar ôl hynny, mae'r cwrs yn canolbwyntio ar agweddau allweddol unrhyw radd gwyddoniaeth. Mae'r darlithoedd a gyflwynir yn cynnwys: dosbarthiadau poblogaethau o fewn data gwyddonol; cysyniadau tebygolrwydd; systemau unedau a ddefnyddir mewn gwyddoniaeth; manwl gywirdeb; cyfrifiadau algebraig; rhyngberthnasau trigonometrig; gosod systemau llinol ar ffurf graff; ac ymdopi ag anflinoledd mewn systemau naturiol. Fel rhan o hyn ceir cyflwyniad i'r defnydd o Excel a Powerpoint - dau becyn meddalwedd sydd yn hanfodol bwysig i fywyd myfyriwr israddedig. Yn dilyn y darlithoedd hyn sydd yn ymwneud yn bennaf â rhifyddeg, mae'r modiwl yn canolbwyntio ar y dull gwyddonol, pennu a phrofi damcaniaethau; gan arwain at syniadau sylfaenol ynghylch cynllunio arbrofol. Yna mae'r cysyniadau hyn yn ymestyn i drafod pwysigrwydd dyblygu mewn setiau data gwyddonol. Yn olaf rhoddir cyflwyniad i brofion ystadegol penodol (parametrig ac anbarametrig). Llythrennedd gwybodaeth Gosod systemau llinol ar ffurf graff MS Excel Systemau unedau a ddefnyddir mewn gwyddoniaeth Manwl gywirdeb Cyflwyniad i ddosbarthiadau o fewn data gwyddonol Disgrifiad o ddosbarthiadau Cysyniadau tebygolrwydd Y dull gwyddonol: pennu a phrofi damcaniaethau Cyflwyniad gyda MS Powerpoint Cyflwyniad i gyfrifiadau algebraig Rhyngberthnasau trigonometrig Ymdopi ag aflinoledd ym myd natur; Cyflwyniad i ddylunio arbrofol Pwysigrwydd dyblygu mewn setiau data gwyddonol Enghreifftiau o brofion ystadegol; parametrig vs amharametrig Atchweliad a chydberthyniad Cyfraddau newid: gwahaniaethu Cyflwyniad i ddadansoddiad amlamrywedd
• DXX-1002: Env. Management & Conservation (20)
  Introduction to environmental management and conservation (why is it important, who does it and where does it occur). The concepts of landscape multipurpose land-use, interpretation and evaluation. Environmental ethics, conflicts and rights. Introduction to Marine conservation issues and to Agri-environment schemes. There will be a field trip to view examples of conflicts between conservation and other land uses. Methods to assess impacts on the environment (e.g. carbon footprints, environmental impact assessment). There will be a field trip to see how the impacts of large industrial projects are being managed and reduced. Economics and the environment: what’s the relationship? The economic problem and the importance of economics. How individual decisions add up to form social phenomena. Fundamentals of economic analysis. Markets, market failures and interventions. Institutions , incentives and interventions by governments. Growth and trade. Using economic analysis to understand the world and inform decisions. There will be a field trip to illustrate economic issues in the environment.
• DXX-1003: Forestry in the 21st Century (20)
  The global environment: Forestry/ Global Forests; Climate change; global land-use systems; deforestation Tree Identification Silvicultural systems and characteristics Site classification Introduction to forest practice: establishment to harvesting, stand stability Field visit to Newborough forest Tree measurement Tree biology and growth; primary and secondary meristems; buds, bark and xylem, root structure Ecosystem services of trees and forests: flood and avalanche control, recreation and other social benefits, climate change, wood and wood-based forest products, non-timber forest products Wood and its cellular characteristics, an introduction, conifers and angiosperms Laboratory practicals on conifers and angiosperm wood anatomy How tall trees transport sap from root to leaf Forest biology; root and mycorrhizal interactions An introduction to the types of pests and diseases in plantation forests Basic wood science: wood properties and the effect of water on its properties (strength characteristics and decay susceptibility) The decay of wood in the forest and in service and the need for preservation
• DXX-1006: Field Course: Making Snowdonia (20)
  This module combines lectures and fieldwork to provide a broad overview of the processes that have given rise to the distinctive features of the Snowdonian landscape. The module focuses on the five key themes of Geology, Ecology, Forestry, Agriculture and Society. Lectures provide a broad overview of the topics and introduce relevant theoretical and conceptual points. The main areas covered will include: underlying geology; glaciation; post-glacial ecology; soil formation; political history of community, private and state forestry; history of human habitation and resource use; the formation and development of the national park. Students will be taken to key sites that demonstrate how these processes interact and relate to particular places.
  or
  DXC-1006: Gwaith Maes: Creu Eryri (20)
  Bydd y modiwl hwn yn cyfuno darlithoedd a gwaith maes i roi trosolwg bras ar y prosesau sydd wedi creu nodweddion arbennig tirwedd Eryri. Bydd y modiwl yn canolbwyntio ar bum brif thema, sef daeareg, ecoleg, coedwigaeth, amaeth a chymdeithas. Bydd y darlithoedd yn rhoi trosolwg bras ar y pynciau ac yn cyflwyno pwyntiau damcaniaethol a chysyniadol perthnasol. Y prif feysydd dan sylw fydd: daeareg waelodol; rhewlifiant; ecoleg ôl-rewlifol; ffurfio pridd; hanes gwleidyddol y gymuned; coedwigaeth breifat a choedwigaeth y wladwriaeth; hanes preswyliad dynol a defnydd adnoddau; hanes ffurfio a datblygu’r parc cenedlaethol. Bydd myfyrwyr yn cael eu hebrwng i safleoedd allweddol sy’n dangos sut y mae’r prosesau hyn yn rhyngweithio ac yn berthnasol i leoedd penodol.

Semester 2

• DXX-1001: Ecosystem Function & Services (20)
  Lectures 1. Introduction ecosystem concepts and matter flows (AS) 2. Ecosystem services (SP) 3. Ecosystem development (AS) 4. Land atmosphere interactions (MR) 5. Biodiversity and ecosystem function (AS) 6. Climate and microclimate (MR) 7. Introduction to soils and their classification (DLJ) 8. Soil formation (DLJ) 9. Soil mineralogy and weathering (DLJ) 10. Soil organic matter and chemical properties (DC) 11. 18 Ecosystem productivity (MR) 12. Ecosystem collapse (DLJ) 13. Above and belowground biodiversity (AS) 14. Root processes (AS) 15. Decomposition, destructors and saprotrophic organisms (MDH) 16. Nutrient cycling in ecosystems (PWH) 17. Plant structure, cells, leaves and needles (KS) 18. Photosynthesis types, pigments, environmental control (KS) 19. Transpiration (KS) 20. Plant stress tolerance I (moisture stress) (KS) 21. Water uptake by plants (KS) 22. Plant stress tolerance II (heat and cold) 23. Deserts (MDH) 24. Temperate grasslands (DC) 25. Tropical forests (MR) 26. Wetlands and salt marshes (AS) 27. Boreal forest and polar ecosystems (PWH) Practicals a) Soil Field Trip (Davey Jones to lead) b) Salt marsh ecology (Mark Rayment to lead) c) Microbial diversity (Mike Hale to lead) d) Plant ecophysiology (Katherine Steele to lead)
• ONS-1001: Environmental data & analysis
  This module, unlike most others, concentrates on giving the student the basic literature searching, numerical and statistical skills required for pursuing the rest of their respective programmes of study. The course relies heavily on computer-based material and so the student also learns how to use and evaluate on-line information, as well as how to converse, discuss and learn via the Blackboard software package. The course starts with an introduction to the Information Literacy Cycle, issues of plagiarism and how to avoid it, and good practice for citing and referencing. Thereafter, the course concentrates on key aspects of any science degree. Lectures introduced include: distributions of populations within scientific data; ideas of probability; unit systems used within science; accuracy and precision; algebraic manipulation; graphing linear systems; and coping with non-linearity in natural systems. Included as part of this will be an introduction to the use of excel and powerpoint - two software packages which are almost essential in the life of an undergraduate student. Following these mainly numerically-related lectures, the module focuses on the scientific method, hypothesis setting and testing; these leading to the fundamental ideas concerning experimental design. These concepts then extend to discussing the importance of replication in scientific datasets. Finally, an introduction to specific statistical tests (parametric and non-parametric) is presented. Library searching and referencing Introduction to distributions within scientific data Ideas of probability Description of distributions Preamble to MS Excel On-line exercises Presentation with MS Powerpoint Unit systems used in science Accuracy & precision. How many decimal places? Introduction to algebraic manipulation Graphing of linear systems Coping with non-linearity in nature (logs etc.) The scientific method: hypothesis setting and testing Introduction to experimental design The importance of replication in scientific datasets Examples of statistical tests: parametric versus non-parametric Regression and correlation ANOVA
  or
  ONC-1001: Dadansoddi Data Amgylcheddol
  Mae'r modiwl hwn, yn wahanol i'r rhan fwyaf o fodiwlau eraill, yn canolbwyntio ar roi i'r myfyrwyr y sgiliau chwilio, rhifyddol ac ystadegol sylfaenol sydd eu hangen i ddilyn gweddill eu rhaglenni astudio. Mae'r cwrs yn dibynnu'n drwm ar ddeunydd cyfrifiadurol ac felly mae'r myfyriwr yn dysgu hefyd sut i ddefnyddio a gwerthuso gwybodaeth ar-lein yn ogystal â sut i sgwrsio, trafod a dysgu trwy gyfrwng pecyn meddalwedd Blackboard. Mae'r cwrs yn dechrau gyda chyflwyniad byr i system gyfrifiadurol y Brifysgol ( yn ystod yr Wythnos Groeso) ac yna'n symud ymlaen yn yr wythnos gyntaf i drafod rôl llenyddiaeth a thechnegau chwilio llenyddiaeth yn eu hastudiaethau yn y dyfodol. Ar ôl hynny, mae'r cwrs yn canolbwyntio ar agweddau allweddol unrhyw radd gwyddoniaeth. Mae'r darlithoedd a gyflwynir yn cynnwys: dosbarthiadau poblogaethau o fewn data gwyddonol; cysyniadau tebygolrwydd; systemau unedau a ddefnyddir mewn gwyddoniaeth; manwl gywirdeb; cyfrifiadau algebraig; rhyngberthnasau trigonometrig; gosod systemau llinol ar ffurf graff; ac ymdopi ag anflinoledd mewn systemau naturiol. Fel rhan o hyn ceir cyflwyniad i'r defnydd o Excel a Powerpoint - dau becyn meddalwedd sydd yn hanfodol bwysig i fywyd myfyriwr israddedig. Yn dilyn y darlithoedd hyn sydd yn ymwneud yn bennaf â rhifyddeg, mae'r modiwl yn canolbwyntio ar y dull gwyddonol, pennu a phrofi damcaniaethau; gan arwain at syniadau sylfaenol ynghylch cynllunio arbrofol. Yna mae'r cysyniadau hyn yn ymestyn i drafod pwysigrwydd dyblygu mewn setiau data gwyddonol. Yn olaf rhoddir cyflwyniad i brofion ystadegol penodol (parametrig ac anbarametrig). Llythrennedd gwybodaeth Gosod systemau llinol ar ffurf graff MS Excel Systemau unedau a ddefnyddir mewn gwyddoniaeth Manwl gywirdeb Cyflwyniad i ddosbarthiadau o fewn data gwyddonol Disgrifiad o ddosbarthiadau Cysyniadau tebygolrwydd Y dull gwyddonol: pennu a phrofi damcaniaethau Cyflwyniad gyda MS Powerpoint Cyflwyniad i gyfrifiadau algebraig Rhyngberthnasau trigonometrig Ymdopi ag aflinoledd ym myd natur; Cyflwyniad i ddylunio arbrofol Pwysigrwydd dyblygu mewn setiau data gwyddonol Enghreifftiau o brofion ystadegol; parametrig vs amharametrig Atchweliad a chydberthyniad Cyfraddau newid: gwahaniaethu Cyflwyniad i ddadansoddiad amlamrywedd
• DXX-1003: Forestry in the 21st Century
  The global environment: Forestry/ Global Forests; Climate change; global land-use systems; deforestation Tree Identification Silvicultural systems and characteristics Site classification Introduction to forest practice: establishment to harvesting, stand stability Field visit to Newborough forest Tree measurement Tree biology and growth; primary and secondary meristems; buds, bark and xylem, root structure Ecosystem services of trees and forests: flood and avalanche control, recreation and other social benefits, climate change, wood and wood-based forest products, non-timber forest products Wood and its cellular characteristics, an introduction, conifers and angiosperms Laboratory practicals on conifers and angiosperm wood anatomy How tall trees transport sap from root to leaf Forest biology; root and mycorrhizal interactions An introduction to the types of pests and diseases in plantation forests Basic wood science: wood properties and the effect of water on its properties (strength characteristics and decay susceptibility) The decay of wood in the forest and in service and the need for preservation

20 credits from:

• DXC-1000: Tiwt Acad.&Sgiliau Allweddol (10) (Semester 1)
  Mae fframwaith y modiwl hwn yn debyg i ddau fodiwl cyffelyb mewn dwy ysgol arall sy'n rhan o'r Coleg Gwyddorau Naturiol (h.y. Ysgol Gwyddorau’r Eigion a'r Ysgol Gwyddorau Biolegol) ac mae’r dulliau asesu’n debyg. Yn ystod yr wythnos groeso (h.y. wythnos 0 y flwyddyn gyntaf), bydd y myfyrwyr a’u tiwtor yn cwrdd, ac yn trefnu 5 sesiwn diwtorial wedi eu dosbarthu trwy gydol semester 1. Yn ogystal â hynny ceir cyfres o sgyrsiau ymchwil a roddir gan staff academaidd yn semester 1 a semester 2. Yn ystod y tiwtorial cyntaf, bydd y tiwtoriaid yn trafod natur y cwrs a’r deilliannau dysgu sydd angen i’r myfyrwyr eu cyflawni. Bydd y tiwtor yn arwain trafodaeth ar bwnc i’w astudio a bydd y myfyrwyr yn cael rhestr ddarllen awgrymedig a disgrifiad o’r dasg fydd angen ei gwneud (h.y. traethawd neu gyflwyniad). Yn y tiwtorialau dilynol, bydd myfyrwyr yn cael adborth ffurfiannol ar y gwaith a gyflwynwyd, a bydd y tiwtor yn cyflwyno'r pwnc a'r dasg nesaf. Y tiwtoriaid penodol fydd yn dewis y pynciau i'w trafod am eu bod yn berthnasol ac yn ddefnyddiol ar gyfer ffrwd arbennig y radd y mae pob myfyriwr yn astudio ar ei chyfer. Bydd cynnwys y cwrs felly'n amrywio ar gyfer pob unigolyn. Caiff y themâu cyffredinol canlynol eu cynnwys er mwyn sicrhau cysondeb yn yr ysgol: Pwysigrwydd bod yn ffeithiol gywir wrth roi gwybodaeth i’r cyhoedd a phobl eraill. Swyddogaeth sail dystiolaethol gadarn wrth benderfynu ar bolisïau. Pwysigrwydd meddwl mewn modd rhyngddisgyblaethol. Gall y dull o ymdrin â’r themâu hyn hefyd amrywio o’r naill diwtor i’r llall, ond y fframwaith canlynol a ddefnyddir: Traethawd 1 (1500 gair) – caiff ei farcio a’i ddefnyddio ar gyfer adborth ffurfiannol. Llyfryddiaeth - caiff ei farcio fel rhan o asesiad ffurfiol. Cyflwyniad 1 (5-10 munud) – caiff ei farcio a’i ddefnyddio ar gyfer adborth ffurfiannol. Traethawd 2 (1500 gair) - caiff ei farcio fel rhan o’r asesiad ffurfiannol.
  or
  DXX-1000: Academic Tutorials&Key Skills (10) (Semester 1)
  The module is structurally similar to equivalent modules in the two other schools that form the College of Natural Sciences (i.e. School of Ocean Sciences and School of Biological Sciences) and assessment methods are similar. During the welcome week (i.e. week 0 of the first year), students and their allocated tutor will meet and timetable 5 tutorial sessions to be spread throughout semester 1. In addition there will be a series of research talks given by academic staff in semester 1 and semester 2. During the first of these tutorials, tutors will discuss with their students the nature of the course, and the learning outcomes that are to be achieved. The tutor will lead a discussion on a topic for study, and the students will receive a list of suggested reading and a description of the task to be completed (i.e. essay or presentation). In subsequent tutorials, students will receive formative feedback on presented work, and the tutor will introduce the following topic and task. Topics covered will be chosen by the individual tutor to be relevant and informative to the particular degree stream each student is following, thus the actual course content will vary between individuals. However, in order to ensure consistency across the school, the following overarching themes will be covered, The importance of factual accuracy when conveying information to the public and others The role of a sound evidence base in policy making The importance of interdisciplinary thinking The manner in which these themes are covered may also vary from tutor to tutor, but the following structure will be used: Essay 1 (1500 words) - Graded and used for formative feedback. Bibliography - Marked as part of formal assessment Presentation 1 (5 - 10 minutes) - Marked as part of formal assessment Essay 2 (1500 words) - Marked as part of formal assessment.
• DXX-1007: Academic Tutorials&Key Skills (20) (Semester 1 + 2)
  The module is structurally similar to equivalent modules in the two other schools that form the College of Natural Sciences (i.e. School of Ocean Sciences and School of Biological Sciences) and assessment methods are similar. During the welcome week (i.e. week 0 of the first year), students and their allocated tutor will meet and timetable 5 tutorial sessions to be spread throughout semester 1. In semester 2 there will be a further 5 tutorial sessions. In addition there will be a series of research talks given by academic staff in semester 1 and semester 2. During the first of these tutorials, tutors will discuss with their students the nature of the course, and the learning outcomes that are to be achieved. The tutor will lead a discussion on a topic for study, and the students will receive a list of suggested reading and a description of the task to be completed (i.e. essay or presentation). In subsequent tutorials, students will receive formative feedback on presented work, and the tutor will introduce the following topic and task. Topics covered will be chosen by the individual tutor to be relevant and informative to the particular degree stream each student is following, thus the actual course content will vary between individuals. However, in order to ensure consistency across the school, the following overarching themes will be covered, The importance of factual accuracy when conveying information to the public and others The role of a sound evidence base in policy making The importance of interdisciplinary thinking The manner in which these themes are covered may also vary from tutor to tutor, but the following structure will be used: Essay 1 (1500 words) - Graded and used for formative feedback. Bibliography - Marked as part of formal assessment Presentation 1 (5 - 10 minutes) - Marked as part of formal assessment Essay 2 (1500 words) - Marked as part of formal assessment. Abstract (300 words) - Marked as part of formal assessment Presentation 2 (5-10 minutes) - Marked as part of formal assessment Essay 3 (1500 words) - Marked as part of formal assessment
• DXC-1303: Methodoleg maes (10) (Semester 2)
  Mae'r cwrs yn cyflwyno egwyddorion technegau sy'n berthnasol i astudiaethau maes ar gyfer daearyddiaeth, astudiaethau'r amgylchedd a defnydd tir. Mae'n cynnwys technegau addas ar gyfer amrediad eang o sefyllfaoedd gan gynnwys agweddau ecolegol, ffisegol a daearyddol. Erbyn diwedd y cwrs bydd y rhai sy'n ei ddilyn wedi cael profiad o ddefnyddio nifer o dechnegau ac o ddehongli'r canlyniadau. Bydd y cwrs yn cael ei redeg dros benwythnos hir. Bydd y cwrs yn cynnwys astudiaethau mewn nifer o feysydd gwahanol, a allai gynnwys y canlynol: a) Dadansoddi newidiadau yng ngorlifdir afon gan ddefnyddio ffynonellau hanesyddol a mesuriadau cyfoes. b) Asesu dylanwad ac addasrwydd melinau gwynt ar gyfer ardal benodol gan ystyried oblygiadau amgylcheddol ac ystyriaethau cynllunio. c) Astudio'r prosesau sy'n gwahardd pobl o leoedd penodol gan ganolbwyntio ar brosesau ffurfiol ac anffurfiol mewn trefi. d) Dehongli'r ffactorau sy'n dylanwadau ar ddefnydd tir mewn ardal benodol gan ystyried effeithiau daearyddol a dynol. e) Astudio'r modd y mae cymunedau'n datblygu mewn ardaloedd gwledig a threfol a'r ffactorau hanesyddol a phresennol sy'n dylanwadu arnynt. f) Dehongli effeithiau rhewlifau ar dirwedd ac ardal benodol gan ystyried damcaniaethau gwahanol
• Students take either DXC1007 or DXC1000 + DXC1303

Compulsory Modules

Semester 1

• DXX-2000: GIS & Research Methods (20)
  Geographical Information Systems: data types, raster and vector data; primary sources, data capture; secondary data sources, data providers; data export formats and data translation; data projections, OSGB and WGS84 lat long; Global Positioning System (GPS), position fixing; organisation of spatial data; Structured Query Language (SQL); geoprocessing, overlay and boolean data, spatial sampling, modelling and analytical approaches; potential uses of GIS utilising a range of examples. Statistics: principles of hypothesis generation, sampling, study design, spatial methods, 1 and 2 way ANOVA for completely randomised designs; 1 factor randomised block ANOVA; correlation coefficient; simple and multiple linear regression; social research methods. Computer-based data manipulation, analysis and presentation. Students will be encouraged to develop effective learning skills including: production of a honours project proposal; communication skills; and time management.
• DXX-2003: Principles of Conservation (20)
  • The need for nature conservation and the nature of conservation • Patterns of global biodiversity • Extinction crisis and habitat loss • Small population biology • Harvesting theory • Invasive species control •Strategies for Ex situ conservation • Species reintroductions • The need for habitat conservation • Island biogeography • Selecting sites for protection • Managing protected areas • Integrating social and economic factors in conservation • Responding to climate change and pollution
• DXX-2004: Silviculture and Inventory (20)
  Physiological processes that determine tree growth and survival: Above- & below-ground allocation; root:shoot ratio; Light capture drives productivity; Drought & water-logging; Mechanisms of disease-related death; Response of seedling trees to environmental stimuli. Tree growth and yield. Plant stress and wood quality. Differences/similarities between individual tree, uneven-aged, mixed stands and plantation silviculture: Single-tree selection; Group selection; Seed trees; Shelterwood; Clearfell. Regeneration: Seed and vegetative regeneration; Re-spacing of natural regeneration; Genetic aspects of regeneration. Tending, thinning. Operational aspects of site preparation, planting and establishment. Silviculture for production: Silviculture and timber properties. Forest harvesting and extraction: Appropriate harvesting methods; Mechanised thinning; Organised felling systems; Forest road planning and layout. Environmental effects of forest operations: Sustainability; Legislation.

Semester 2

• DXX-2000: GIS & Research Methods
  Geographical Information Systems: data types, raster and vector data; primary sources, data capture; secondary data sources, data providers; data export formats and data translation; data projections, OSGB and WGS84 lat long; Global Positioning System (GPS), position fixing; organisation of spatial data; Structured Query Language (SQL); geoprocessing, overlay and boolean data, spatial sampling, modelling and analytical approaches; potential uses of GIS utilising a range of examples. Statistics: principles of hypothesis generation, sampling, study design, spatial methods, 1 and 2 way ANOVA for completely randomised designs; 1 factor randomised block ANOVA; correlation coefficient; simple and multiple linear regression; social research methods. Computer-based data manipulation, analysis and presentation. Students will be encouraged to develop effective learning skills including: production of a honours project proposal; communication skills; and time management.
• DXX-2009: Conservation Practice (20)
  Understanding conservation responses Community-conservation Efficacy of agri-environment schemes The role of international NGOs International agreements (CBD, Ramsar, EU Habitats and birds directive), To provide training in some of the skills used by professional conservationists Conservation monitoring (some theory eg type I and type I errors, the concept of power) and introduction to some UK based and international schemes. Study design and experimental design for conservation biology and ecology (stratification, precision and bias); Estimating population size (quadrats, mark and recapture, distance sampling, territory mapping); Measuring biodiversity across scales (diversity indices); Management planning and measurable indicators of conservation state including, including common standards monitoring and compliance monitoring.
• DXX-2010: Forest and Woodland Management (20)
  Sustainable forest management: history, modern concepts and definitions; criteria and indicators of sustainable forest management; sustainable forest management in the UK - the UK Forestry Standard. Forest certification: history and principles of certification; certification schemes operating in Europe; forest certification in the UK - the UK Woodland Assurance Standard. Forest resources and their contribution to global carbon cycles: remote sensing and ground-based methods for assessing forest resources; inventory planning and forest sampling; estimation of forest biomass and carbon content. Productive functions of forests: numerical descriptions of tree and forest growth characteristics; forest growth models and associated functions; quantification and modelling of forest stand structure; management interventions and yield prediction.

20 credits from:

• DXX-2012: Field Course: ACE (20) (Semester 2)
  A one week course combining field practical sessions based in Bangor and field visits away from Bangor. The practical element illustrates the conflict between land use for economic production and conservation & biodiversity outcomes. Specifically the practical sessions will investigate the relationship between diffuse environmental pollution and biodiversity levels. The field visits provide further examples of conflict and also illustrate how conflict resolution has been tackled and how we can evaluate the relative success of different approaches.
• DXX-2016: Field Course: Forestry (20) (Semester 2)
  Forestry policies in England, Scotland and Wales: history, development and current policies; financial incentives and forestry grant schemes. Implications of forestry policies for forest management: case studies (by field visit) of state, private sector and community forests in England, Scotland and Wales. Ecosystem services from forests: provisioning, regulating and cultural services. Wood production as a provisioning service: case study (by field visit) of three forestry-wood-chains in south-west Scotland; determination of the profitability of the three chains. Recreation as a cultural service: case study (by field visit) of forests in northern England; evaluation of recreational facilities and their use.

Compulsory Modules

Semester 1

• DXX-9000: Professional Placement (1)

Semester 2

• DXX-9000: Professional Placement

Compulsory Modules

Semester 1

• BNS-3000: Wildlife Ecol & Conservation (20)
  This module will allow students to explore key concepts and theories of wildlife ecology as they relate to conservation. Amongst other topics, the module addresses drivers of animal distribution, foraging theory, niche theory, vulnerability to extinction, the role of apex predators, trophic interactions and spatial ecology. The lectures are accompanied by field trips. The data collected during these trips will be statistically analysed in dedicated computer sessions.
• DXX-3301: Forest Ecology (20)
  Lectures: Pattern and process in forests; the ecology of natural and human disturbance. Vegetation succession (mechanisms, models, impact on forest structure and composition, applications). The forest regeneration cycle (especially seed production and dispersal, gap phase, thinning, the regeneration niche). Ecological variation amongst plant species, including: its architectural and ecophysiological basis; response to global and local environmental change; applications to forest management. Forest mammals: geographical and habitat distribution; role in food webs. The global issue of invasive species, focussing on impacts in forest habitats. Disturbance effects on forest mammals; ecologically-based approaches to the management of invasive species. Forests and trees as habitat, their landscape ecology, habitat and species conservation and restoration. Practicals: Pattern and process in forests, vegetation succession, tree populations and regeneration, application to forest restoration and management; primary succession and its application to the ecological restoration of derelict industrial sites, environmental factors limiting the establishment of vegetation, comparative ecology of tree species and the impact of disturbance. Seminars: A series of ca. 20 key current questions in forest wildlife conservation will be introduced. Each pair of students will pick one question and research, present and discuss their answer in the following seminar.
• DXX-3701: Honours project (30)
  The module allows students to undertake an extensive and original independent investigation of a topic of relevance to their degree programme. It may involve practical experimentation in the laboratory and/or field or a non-experimental study. It is conducted under the supervision of a member of academic staff. The module also provides opportunities for students to develop their own ideas, to show initiative, to work on their own and to follow an agreed plan, and for these attributes to be assessed. The project must be written up in the form of a research honours project, to a specified format. In addition, it may also be assessed by a poster presentation, oral presentation, or other method, that may vary according to the degree programme, but that will be specified at the start of the module.
  or
  DXC-3701: Project Anrhydedd (30)
  Mae'r modiwl hwn yn caniatáu i fyfyrwyr gynnal ymchwiliad annibynnol eang a gwreiddiol o bwnc sy'n berthnasol i'w rhaglen gradd. Mae'n bosib y bydd yn cynnwys arbrofi ymarferol mewn labordy a / neu drwy waith maes, neu astudiaeth nad yw'n ymwneud ag arbrofi. Fe'i cynhelir o dan oruchwyliaeth aelod o'r staff academaidd. Mae'r modiwl hefyd yn rhoi cyfle i fyfyrwyr ddatblygu eu syniadau eu hunain, dangos eu gallu i fentro, gweithio'n annibynnol ac i ddilyn cynllun y cytunwyd arno, ac i'r priodoleddau hyn gael eu hasesu. Mae'n rhaid i waith ysgrifenedig y project fod ar ffurf adroddiad ymchwil, mewn fformat penodol. Bydd hefyd yn cael ei asesu ar sail cyflwyniad llafar mewn seminar; bydd y manylion ar gael ar ddechrau'r modiwl.

Semester 2

• DXX-3701: Honours project
  The module allows students to undertake an extensive and original independent investigation of a topic of relevance to their degree programme. It may involve practical experimentation in the laboratory and/or field or a non-experimental study. It is conducted under the supervision of a member of academic staff. The module also provides opportunities for students to develop their own ideas, to show initiative, to work on their own and to follow an agreed plan, and for these attributes to be assessed. The project must be written up in the form of a research honours project, to a specified format. In addition, it may also be assessed by a poster presentation, oral presentation, or other method, that may vary according to the degree programme, but that will be specified at the start of the module.
  or
  DXC-3701: Project Anrhydedd
  Mae'r modiwl hwn yn caniatáu i fyfyrwyr gynnal ymchwiliad annibynnol eang a gwreiddiol o bwnc sy'n berthnasol i'w rhaglen gradd. Mae'n bosib y bydd yn cynnwys arbrofi ymarferol mewn labordy a / neu drwy waith maes, neu astudiaeth nad yw'n ymwneud ag arbrofi. Fe'i cynhelir o dan oruchwyliaeth aelod o'r staff academaidd. Mae'r modiwl hefyd yn rhoi cyfle i fyfyrwyr ddatblygu eu syniadau eu hunain, dangos eu gallu i fentro, gweithio'n annibynnol ac i ddilyn cynllun y cytunwyd arno, ac i'r priodoleddau hyn gael eu hasesu. Mae'n rhaid i waith ysgrifenedig y project fod ar ffurf adroddiad ymchwil, mewn fformat penodol. Bydd hefyd yn cael ei asesu ar sail cyflwyniad llafar mewn seminar; bydd y manylion ar gael ar ddechrau'r modiwl.

10 to 20 credits from:

• DXX-3016: Forest Ecosystems & Services (20) (Semester 2)
  Forest ecosystems: ecosystem theory and processes; genetic diversity in forest ecosystems. Anthropogenic impacts: increases in temperature, fire frequency, ozone and carbon dioxide levels; soil acidification and nitrogen deposition. Climate change impacts on tropical forests. Ecosystem services from forests: provisioning, regulating, cultural and supporting services. Valuing forests and forest ecosystem services: conventional methods – market value, NPV, etc.; cost-benefit analysis; payment for ecosystem services (PES).
• DXX-3212: Forest Ecosystems (10) (Semester 2)
  The module is based on a series of lectures and seminars. The lectures provide a conceptual background and overview. The seminars are conducted by groups of students and provide an opportunity for in-depth study and discussion. Seminars are based on research papers which are critically reviewed and presented by a group of students in the class. The lecturer provides a platform for understanding the topic area and provokes discussion about the background of the paper, assumptions, weaknesses, and politics eg. Why did the author write that? Lecture Topics 1. Ecosystem Theory 2. Ecosystem Processes 3. Warming 4. Fire 5. Ozone 6. CO2 7. Soil Acidification 8. Nitrogen Deposition 9. Genetic Diversity 10. Tropical Forests

Optional Modules

30 to 40 credits from:

• DXX-3115: Advanced GIS & Remote Sensing (10) (Semester 2)
• DXX-3304: Tropical conserva field course (20) (Semester 1)
  The hydrological cycle and water balance in catchments; rainfall/runoff relationships; catchment characteristics; weathering and sedimentation; the role of vegetation and land-use changes in catchment stability and hydrological processes; water quality and acid rain; temperate and tropical watershed results and case studies; principles of good watershed management.
  or
  DXX-3305: Field Course: Tenerife (20) (Semester 1)
  A one-week field course on the environmentally diverse island of Tenerife. You will be taken to a variety of sites which demonstrate a range of rock, soil and vegetation types, and a range of conservation and sustainability issues. Some of these will involve meeting and discussion with local experts. You will spend time towards the end of the week working as pairs or small teams on a project designed by you and evolved in discussion with the teaching staff.
• DXX-3305: Field Course: Tenerife (20) (Semester 1)
  A one-week field course on the environmentally diverse island of Tenerife. You will be taken to a variety of sites which demonstrate a range of rock, soil and vegetation types, and a range of conservation and sustainability issues. Some of these will involve meeting and discussion with local experts. You will spend time towards the end of the week working as pairs or small teams on a project designed by you and evolved in discussion with the teaching staff.
• DXX-3506: C. Issues in Env & related Sci (10) (Semester 1)
  This module allows the student to undertake a desk-based research project looking in depth at a current environmental or related issue. The module runs in Semester 1 and culminates in the production of a written project report and a seminar. The issues are chosen by the student to reflect his/her interests and can range from local issues through to global issues. The range of 'popular' current issues will be investigated by individual students. Sources such as tabloid and broadsheet daily and Sunday newspapers, broadcast media, the internet, 'popular' scientific journals and the more rigorously refereed scientific journals should be consulted. The topic should be different from that chosen in the student's experimental research project. Topics should be selected in consultation with the module organizer. The module involves student-led research into a specific topic. Apart from an introductory lecture there are no formal lectures or practicals associated with this module. At the end of Semester 1, each student will present their topic in the form of a 20 minute interview and will submit a project report on their chosen topic. Both the interview and project report elements will be assessed.
  or
  DXC-3506: Materion Cyfoes yr Amgylchedd (10) (Semester 1)
  Bydd y modiwl hwn yn galluogi myfyrwyr i wneud project ymchwil ar gyfrifiadur gan edrych yn fanwl ar fater amgylcheddol cyfredol, neu fater yn gysylltiedig â'r amgylchedd. Cynhelir y modiwl yn Semester 1 a daw i ben gyda chynhyrchu adroddiad project ysgrifenedig a seminar. Dewisir y testunau gan y myfyriwr i adlewyrchu ei d(d)iddordeb a gallant amrywio o faterion lleol i rai byd-eang. Bydd myfyrwyr yn ymchwilio i amrediad o faterion cyfoes 'poblogaidd'. Dylid ymgynghori â ffynonellau megis papurau newydd o wahanol ansawdd, y cyfryngau darlledu, y rhyngrwyd, cyfnodolion gwyddonol `poblogaidd' a'r cyfnodolion gwyddonol a gaiff eu cloriannu'n fwy trwyadl gan arbenigwyr yn y maes. Dylai'r testun fod yn wahanol i'r un a ddewisir ar gyfer project ymchwil arbrofol y myfyriwr. Dylid dewis testunau mewn ymgynghoriad â threfnydd y modiwl. Mae'r modiwl yn cynnwys ymchwil a wneir gan fyfyrwyr i destun penodol. Ar wahân i ddarlith ragarweiniol nid oes unrhyw ddarlithoedd neu sesiynau ymarferol ffurfiol yn gysylltiedig â'r modiwl hwn. Ar ddiwedd Semester 1 bydd pob myfyriwr yn cyflwyno eu testun ar ffurf seminar 20 munud a byddant yn cyflwyno adroddiad project ar y testun o'u dewis. Bydd myfyrwyr yn mynd i seminarau ei gilydd a disgwylir iddynt gyfrannu at y drafodaeth ar ôl pob sgwrs. Asesir y seminar a'r adroddiad project.
• DXX-3507: Renewable Energy (10) (Semester 2)
  The first part of the module briefly examines current energy resources, use and efficiency (3h). The next part of the course examines alternative renewable resources for fossil fuels involving combustion technologies (biogas, liquid biofuels and biomass, 4h). Following this renewable energy topics not involving combustion technologies are covered (wind, solar PV, solar thermal, geothermal, heat pump technologies, hydro, wave and tidal) along with associated issues of energy storage and distribution. Finally the course will examine other options being discussed in the UK and worldwide (e.g. fracking, CCS and nuclear energy). The course includes a field trip to Electric mountain, a pumped water energy storage scheme in Llanberis and a series of smaller scale projects at the National Trusts, Hafod y Llan. The conclusion of the course is conference with visiting speakers covering renewable energy technologies and their application.
• DXX-3508: Environmental Issues (20) (Semester 1)
  This module allows the student to undertake a desk-based research project looking in depth at a current environmental or related issue. The module runs in Semester 1 and culminates in the production of a written project report and interview. The issues are chosen by the student to reflect his/her interests and can range from local issues through to global issues. The range of `popular' current issues will be investigated by individual students. Sources such as tabloid and broadsheet daily and Sunday newspapers, broadcast media, the internet, `popular' scientific journals and the more rigorously refereed scientific journals should be consulted. The topic should be different from that chosen in the student's experimental research project. Topics should be selected in consultation with the module organizer. The module involves student-led research into a specific topic. Apart from two introductory lectures there are no formal lectures or practicals associated with this module. At the end of Semester 1, each student will present their topic in the form of a 20 minute interview and will submit a project report on their chosen topic. Both the interview and project report elements will be assessed.
  or
  DXC-3508: Materion Amgylcheddol (20) (Semester 1)
  Bydd y modiwl hwn yn galluogi myfyrwyr i wneud project ymchwil ar gyfrifiadur gan edrych yn fanwl ar fater amgylcheddol cyfredol, neu fater yn gysylltiedig â'r amgylchedd. Cynhelir y modiwl yn Semester 1 a daw i ben gyda chynhyrchu adroddiad project ysgrifenedig a seminar. Dewisir y testunau gan y myfyriwr i adlewyrchu ei d(d)iddordeb a gallant amrywio o faterion lleol i rai byd-eang. Bydd myfyrwyr yn ymchwilio i amrediad o faterion cyfoes 'poblogaidd'. Dylid ymgynghori â ffynonellau megis papurau newydd o wahanol ansawdd, y cyfryngau darlledu, y rhyngrwyd, cyfnodolion gwyddonol `poblogaidd' a'r cyfnodolion gwyddonol a gaiff eu cloriannu'n fwy trwyadl gan arbenigwyr yn y maes. Dylai'r testun fod yn wahanol i'r un a ddewisir ar gyfer project ymchwil arbrofol y myfyriwr. Dylid dewis testunau mewn ymgynghoriad â threfnydd y modiwl. Mae'r modiwl yn cynnwys ymchwil a wneir gan fyfyrwyr i destun penodol. Ar wahân i ddarlith ragarweiniol nid oes unrhyw ddarlithoedd neu sesiynau ymarferol ffurfiol yn gysylltiedig â'r modiwl hwn. Ar ddiwedd Semester 1 bydd pob myfyriwr yn cyflwyno eu testun ar ffurf seminar 20 munud a byddant yn cyflwyno adroddiad project ar y testun o'u dewis. Bydd myfyrwyr yn mynd i seminarau ei gilydd a disgwylir iddynt gyfrannu at y drafodaeth ar ôl pob sgwrs. Asesir y seminar a¿r adroddiad project.
• DXX-3510: Advances in Conservation (20) (Semester 2)
• DXX-3511: Advances in Conservation (10) (Semester 2)
• DXX-3615: Environmental Policy (10) (Semester 1)
  Policy and the environment Basic concepts of government, sovereignty, politics, democracy. General features of political systems and governments in the UK and internationally. The role of diverse actors in the policy process: including politicians and parliaments, governments, bureaucracies and agencies, NGOs, media, interest groups and supranational bodies. Theories of politics and policy-making, including international relations.
• DXX-3702: Management plan (30) (Semester 1)
  The module is based on an assessment of an existing site to answer a specific question related to the area's land use. Students will be provided with background information and will have opportunities to visit the location and to hold discussions with site owners/managers. Using this information plus other relevant physical, biological, technical and economic data, a management plan / strategy document will be prepared. Students will be provided with a detailed brief that defines the scope of the plan and the expectations. They will be provided with access to tutorial support to address technical issues as they arise.
  or
  DXC-3702: Cynllun Rheoli (30) (Semester 1)
  Mae'r modiwl yn seiliedig ar asesu safle sydd eisoes yn bodoli i ateb cwestiwn penodol sy'n berthnasol i ddefnyddio tir yr ardal. Bydd myfyrwyr yn cael gwybodaeth cefndir ac yn cael cyfle i ymweld â'r safle a chynnal trafodaethau gyda pherchnogion/rheolwyr y safle. Bydd cynllun rheoli/dogfen strategaeth yn cael ei ddarparu drwy ddefnyddio'r wybodaeth hon yn ogystal â data ffisegol, biolegol, technegol, economaidd a GIS perthnasol arall. Bydd myfyrwyr yn cael gwybodaeth fanwl i ddiffinio cwmpas y cynllun a¿r disgwyliadau. Byddant yn cael mynediad at gefnogaeth diwtorial (gan gynnwys GIS) i ymdrin â materion technegol fel bo'r angen.
• DXX-3705: The Forestry Profession (10) (Semester 1 + 2)
  Together with a host organisation, students will help plan and attend two continuing professional development events which may feature any two of the following aspects of forestry: pests and diseases, economics, recreation, landscape design, harvesting and extraction, planning, timber processing, measurement, research, climate change, silviculture, soils, water, biodiversity, community and society.
• Students take EITHER DXC/DXX-3506 OR DXC/DXX3508. Students take EITHER DXX3305 OR DXX3304.