Photo of a forest in Montana

Forestry products abound in Montana — from giant cedars in the west to pines in the southeast. Through the 4-H forestry project, you will discover how important these forests are to our state. You’ll also learn about forest ecology and people’s reliance on forest products. You’ll explore the relationship between trees, people and communities.

It may take three years to complete a level. You must complete a minimum of seven activities and five learning experiences each year to complete this project. 

 

Projects to learn

At level 1 of forestry, students will learn

  • about the different types of trees

  • tree parts

  • characteristics of different forests

  • what forests need to grow and thrive

  • forestry careers

  • the many different products

  • benefits people get from forests

At level 2 of forestry, students will learn

  •  the inner workings of trees
  • explore forest change
  • about forest health concerns
  •  the health benefits that trees have for people

At level 3 of forestry, students will learn

  •  to examine and distinguish different types of trees
  • about tree fruits
  • how to develop a community forest map
  • about genetics
  • look at forests on a global scale
  • how to care for trees
  • about how to conserve forests

Independent study is for any youth looking for new challenges and opportunities in 4-H. This allows a member to explore topics that have not been investigated while remaining enrolled in a 4-H project. Members enrolling in the independent study phase of a project should

  • develop a detailed learning plan for their work
  • identify an area of interest within the project area
  • set goals and locate resources (people, publications, materials) to carry out a project plan
  • determine specific experiences needed to accomplish project goals,
  • set a realistic timeline for completion
  • carry out the project learning plan,
  • share experiences with others
  • evaluate outcomes and determine what could be improved.

PROJECT REQUIREMENTS

The individualized learning plan should be approved by a parent, 4-H adult volunteer leader or 4-H agent. For assistance in developing a personal learning contract, use Design Your Own project materials or other goal-setting materials. While independent study provides flexibility and creativity, it also requires serious planning, implementation and evaluation.

 

Materials you'll need

M Follow the Path, BU8038

M You Decide, 5314

L Helping Them Decide, 5315

L Forestry Helper’s Guide, BU8041, This guide provides forest information, group youth activities and practical tips. Using this curriculum, youth develop a life-long appreciation for forests. 

 

Non-Animal Record Books

A Project/Financial Journal is needed for each non-animal related project. Project journals need to contain the name of the project, the year these records were kept, and a leader/parent signature. All sections of the journal need to be completed. If nothing was done in an area or section of a record sheet, the word “none” or something similar should be written. 

Download record book sheet

 

Careers in Forestry

If you are wanting to explore careers in forestry, below are some of the potential routes you can take. 4-H members interested in going to college can also visit the 4-H foundation website for scholarships in their county or reservation.