The following basic concepts cover the broad range of forestry. A correct understanding of each statement would benefit both resource managers and well rounded citizens. Some are so logical or simple that they are taken as granted and overlooked. An appreciation of these points would benefit judging team members. A. Characteristics, Distribution, and Status of Forest Resources 1.
Trees have distinctive characteristics by which they can be identified.
Trees depend upon water, soil nutrients, sunlight, and air for growth. Climate, soil, and topography influence the natural range and distribution of the different types of forest communities. Forest communities influence their climate and their soil. Forest litter, humus and roots give forest soil an exceptional ability to absorb moisture and resist erosion. In the forest, some organisms are adapted to living in the forest soil, some on the forest floor, some in the undergrowth, and some in trees.