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Silviculture of Temperate Forests (Block Days)
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:54
Abstract
In 9 full-day excursions, the 3 most frequently used silvicultural systems in CH (Swiss Femelschlag, single-tree selection (plenter) forest and continuous cover forestry) are deepened. Key concepts are presented, illustrated with concrete examples in the forest and put into practice. The practical course offers a unique possibility to exchange with silviculture experts and forest practitioners.
Objective
By the end of this practical course, students will be able to: - Explain and apply principles of multifunctional forest management and silviculture in temperate forests using real-world examples, with a focus on the three main silvicultural systems practiced in Switzerland: Swiss Femelschlag, single tree selection system (plenter forest) and continuous cover forestry (Dauerwald) - Conduct silvicultural assessments in the field, evaluate management options for maintaining forest resilience and multifunctionality under climate change, and develop site-specific silvicultural recommendations.
Content
Nine full-day excursions on the following topics: - Swiss Femelschlag: theory, regeneration urgency and timing - Swiss Femelschlag: regeneration processes, periods, and spatial order - Swiss Femelschlag: regeneration and planning of silvicultural interventions - Swiss Femelschlag: natural regeneration and felling systems, regeneration techniques - Classic single-tree selection (plenter) system with spruce, fir and beech and transformation from even-aged forest to plenter forest - Non-native tree species and future forests in dry regions of Switzerland - Continuous cover forestry in broadleaved forests: theory and marteloscope exercise - Continuous cover forestry in broadleaved forests: Possibilities and limits - Silviculture to sustain biodiversity and ecological continuity in oak forests This practical course allows students to exchange with forest practitioners and silviculture experts. The excursions are on Thursdays when the Applied Forest and Landscape Management Lab is not taking place.
Resources
Lecture Notes
NoneLecture notes and documents will be provided
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- ungraded semester performance
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| practical/laboratory course |
Silviculture of Temperate Forests (Block Days)
Nine full-day excursions in the forest.
The excursions will be held in English and German.
The excursions in the spring semester 2026 will take place on Thursdays, 19 February, 26 February, 5 March, 12 March, 26 March, 2 April, 23 April, 30 April, 7 May.
|
No time listed | 72 h semesterly |
Offered In
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Major in Forest and Landscape Management (from HS25 onwards) (Students who start the specialization in Forest and Landscape Management in HS25 or later study according to the 2013 regulations, edition 29.04.2025 - 8. The new structure of this specialization is shown in the current VVZ. Students who started the specialization in Forest and Landscape Management before HS25 can complete the specialization in accordance with the study guide 2024/25.)
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