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701-1636-01L 5 Credits MSC D-USYS

Ecology and Management of Mountain Forests (Block Days)

Ökologie und Management von Gebirgswäldern (Blocktage)

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Harald Bugmann, Dr. Alessandra Bottero
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:54

Abstract

The factors influencing the structure and function of mountain forests are analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Limiting factors along elevational gradients are evaluated, and the impacts of global change are assessed. Students engage with and critically assess contemporary concepts of mountain forest management

Objective

Students will be able to... - explain the factors that shape the structure, function and dynamics of mountain forests as well as the ecosystem services that they provide (focus on timber, protection from natural hazards, biodiversity) - quantitatively assess these properties for mountain forests, with a focus on the interactions between gravitative natural hazards and forest properties - provide an overview of the recent literature on these topics based on case studies that are discussed in class - evaluate the likely future development paths of mountain forests resulting from their current state and future driving forces (management, climate) - derive specific management recommendations for mountain forests.

Content

- Introduction to the quantitative and qualitative significance of mountain forests at various scales - Analysis of the factors that specifically shape the structure, function and dynamics of mountain forests - Forest properties along elevational gradients; determination of site types in mountain forests - Tree-ungulate interactions and hunting - Forest biodiversity conservation - Modern concepts of mountain forest management (when to intervene, and how)

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handouts will be provided. Additional textbooks and scientific articles will be indicated and partly used in the course.

Literature

among others: Frehner et al. (2005), NaiS. Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), Bern

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
German
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes
Effektive Dauer der mündlichen Prüfung ist 60 Min. (30 Min je Dozent/in)

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Ökologie und Management von Gebirgswäldern (Blocktage)
Di 8-10 während des ganzen Semesters, Di 10-12 in der zweiten Semesterhälfte. Ausserdem 2 x 3 Tage Exkursionen in der 4. & 5. Woche nach Semsterschluss (24.-26.06.2026 sowie 29.06.-01.07.2026).
  • Tue 08:15-10:00 (CHN F 42)
  • Tue 10:15-12:00 (CHN F 42)
  • 26.05 Date 07:45-08:30 (HCI H 2.1)
3 h weekly

Offered In