Forestry Project Ideas for 4-H and FFA

Thinking in decades

Forestry is the science of growing and managing trees, and it asks members to think on a slow clock. A tree planted today may not be harvested for decades, so foresters plan carefully. Members learn to identify species, measure trees, understand forest health and see how wood, water, wildlife and recreation fit together.

Core skills

Identifying trees by leaf, bark, bud and form
Measuring tree diameter and height with simple tools
Reading a forest for age, density and health
Understanding threats such as insects, disease, drought and fire
Knowing how forest products reach consumers

Project ideas by level

Tree identification book: collect leaves where allowed, press them and create a labeled guide to the trees around your home.
Schoolyard tree inventory: map and measure the trees on school grounds and propose a replacement plan. The Arbor Day Foundation has helpful tree resources.
Woodlot study: with permission, sample a small plot and estimate species mix and tree sizes, then describe the stand's health.
Tree planting project: plan a planting with the right species for site and soil, including care and protection from animals.
Management plan summary: interview a forester and write a plain-language summary of a woodland plan.
Wood products study: trace a piece of lumber or paper from forest to store.

Safety in the woods

Chain saws, axes and felling are for trained adults only, and members should not use them without certified instruction and direct supervision. Wear bright clothing in hunting season, watch overhead for dead limbs, and beware of ticks, poison ivy and uneven ground. Prescribed fire is a professional practice. The U.S. Forest Service has safety and educational material for forest visitors.

Measuring a tree the simple way

You can estimate how big a tree is without climbing it. Diameter is measured at about chest height with a tape made for the purpose, and height can be estimated with a simple stick or clinometer method that your leader can teach. Practice on trees you can check by comparing results among team members. Foresters use these numbers to estimate the volume of wood and the age and growth rate of a stand, and members who record them regularly can chart how a woodlot changes from year to year.

Contests and recognition

Many states hold forestry contests that test tree identification, measurement, forest insect and disease recognition and management decisions, and details vary by state, so check your program guide. FFA offers forestry career development events in many states; see the National FFA Organization for official information. Practicing with a team and a coach is the best preparation.

Costs, time and records

Costs are modest: a diameter tape, a notebook, a field guide and good boots. Seedlings may be free or low cost from state forestry agencies. Keep identifications, plot data, planting records, photos and costs in your project book. Plan for seasonal visits, since a tree looks different in every season.

Where it leads

Forestry leads to jobs as foresters, loggers, arborists, park managers and wood products engineers. Related pages include forest management and products and wildlife habitat evaluation. For general information, see 4-H. For more 4-H and FFA project ideas, visit agriculture.directory and farm.fm's 4-H and FFA section.