Forest ecology

Forest ecology

Forest ecology is the scientific study of processes and relationships between the components of a forest — plants, animals, soil, air and water. Learn more about how carbon and forests interact, how genetic selection can grown you a better forest, and about the important contributions that forest vegetation and riparian areas make to high water quality.

Forests and carbon

Learn how carbon interacts with forests, about carbon sequestration and carbon credits, and effects of thresholds on environmental change.

Forest genetics

Learn about forest genetics and how tree selection determines the forests of the future.

Related resources

• Idaho forestry best management practices

Forest vegetation

Trees are the largest, but not the only plants in a forest. Learn about habitat types and individual forest plant species, as well as browse selected field guides.

Riparian areas

The health and wealth of an aquatic environment are reflections of the condition of the surrounding land. Discover the many functions of riparian areas and what you can do to help them be their best.

Related resources

• Idaho forestry best management practices field guide: using bmps to protect water quality, BUL 891
• Idaho forestry best management practices

Water quality

Water has long been, and will forever be, the currency of the west. Growing populations, irrigation and hydropower all put enormous demands on the lakes and rivers of our state. Learn more about water quality and current laws that keep Idaho’s lakes, streams and rivers pristine.

Related resources

• Idaho forestry best management practices field guide: using bmps to protect water quality, BUL 891
• Idah2o master water stewards handbook, BUL 882
• Idaho forestry best management practices
• Idaho Department of Lands