220-286 Plant and Animal Pests

This subject introduces common plant and animal pests which affect forests and outlines the management practices used for pest control.

On completion of this subject, students should:

• be able to define a pest in forest ecosystems;

• be familiar with the main plant and animal pests and their biology and ecology;

• be aware of the impacts of plant and animal pests on production forestry; and

• know of the management techniques available for pest control.

The subject covers the areas of:

• plants and animals declared as pests;

• environmental weeds and feral animals;

• ecological impacts of pest plants and animals; and

• management practices to avoid and overcome damage caused by pest plants and animals.

A 2-hour examination worth 40%, up to three practicals totalling 30%, and a project of a maximum of 2000 words worth 30% of the final marks.