Publisher’s Story Summary: Forestry examines all aspects of the industry, from the planting of new seedlings to the inner workings of a sawmill and a pulp and paper mill. This engaging picture book uses a combination of fact and fiction to introduce young children to the people, machines and environmental concerns involved in one of America's most important resource-based industries.

The America at Work series fills a need for primary-level information on natural resources, and Forestry helps children appreciate the work involved in bringing forestry products to their homes.

LESSON: FORESTRY (American at Work Series)

Lesson Summary

When his favorite climbing tree dies, Cameron watches his Uncle Erik, a forester, cut it down.  Cameron is curious and asks his Uncle questions about forestry.  Uncle Erik tells Cameron all about the forest industry, from making logs and paper to ways that are used to protect the environment. This is a book loaded with information.

Concept:  Natural Resources

Definition:  Natural Resources are gifts of nature that are used in the production of goods and services.

Comprehension Questions:

Why are forests considered a natural resource?
They are gifts of nature.

What other natural resources are needed to grown trees?
Water, minerals, sunshine, air.

How do trees help protect another valuable natural resource – soil?
Land where most or all of the trees have been are subject to wind and water erosion.

How are most small trees (seedlings) planted?
By hand

What capital resource is used to help plant the seedlings?
A dibble

Foresters harvest trees like a crop.  What are the advantages and disadvantages of large scale “clearcutting?”
Advantages: cheapest and most efficient method, which helps keep prices lower for consumers; in many situations, also results in the best regeneration of a new forest, which improves future economic return; improves habitat for some wildlife species.  Disadvantages:  destruction of habitat for some wildlife species; increased potential for soil erosion; some waste of small trees.

(Note:  the answers to this question are not all gleaned from the story, but were provided by an education specialist from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.)

What are some of the capital resources foresters use to log trees?
Feller-buncher, chainsaw, skidder, grapple, helicopters, Ecologgers, boom boat, trucks

Is paper a natural resource?
No, it is a product that is produced from trees.

All production, including forestry, affect the environment.  What are some of the ways mentioned in the book that are used to keep the environment from being greatly harmed by forestry?
Replanting trees after cutting; keeping certain trees for wildlife; new logging methods, such as helicopter lifting and Ecologgers; using more recycling water and using fewer chemicals in paper making; and designating some areas as “wilderness areas.”

Bonus Question!
What is the productivity of a worker who plants seedlings by hand on a prepared site?
100 seedlings per hour.  See page 10.

Other Concepts:  Capital resources, Productivity

  Natural Resources 

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