The management option focuses on the biological, ecological and economic characteristics of forests and society. Students gain knowledge and experience in active forest management, including monitoring the health of forests and natural resources, maintaining species inventory, timber cruising, planning and executing harvesting operations, focusing on conservation and sustainability of natural resources such as wildlife, and protecting the forest from harmful weeds, insects, disease, erosion and fire. Graduates of the management option will go on to manage public or private lands or further study trees at the stand level as a silviculturist or ecologist.