Hello Students! Here are a few notes about technology for the 2023 El Dorado Forestry Challenge.

Each team should bring one laptop to use for presentation prep. Windows PCs are preferred. More than one laptop per team is allowed, but not necessary.
Your laptop must have:
- At least 1 USB-A port
- 1 HDMI port
- Powerpoint software – No Internet-dependent programs (Prezi, Google Slides, etc.)
IF YOU BRING A MAC, you must be able to convert files so they are .PPTX OR have an HDMI adapter to connect to a projector.
If you need a laptop, there are a few available for loan, but please let us know in advance if you want to check one out. (Please do not rely on our laptops, they are passible, but your own will be better)
You will receive a flash drive with focus topic related materials to use in your presentation. You can also bring any background information about the focus topic that you think will help you in your presentation.
Leoni Meadows has weak Wi-Fi in the workroom, so you should be able to do some limited internet research as you develop your presentation. However, there is no cell service.
A camera that can hard-wire transfer photos to your laptop is highly recommended.

If you have any questions about technology at the El Dorado Forestry Challenge, please email Diane. Thanks!

Sample Schedule	What to Bring	What Happens at Forestry Challenge
Forestry Challenge Rules	Minor Release Form	Adult Release Form

Download or print the Forestry Challenge Instruction Manual & Study Guide to use in conjunction with the following learning objectives

El Dorado Forestry Challenge Learning Objectives

Understand the fundamental life processes of plants including photosynthesis and transpiration.
Know the basic parts of a tree and their functions.
Understand basic ecological concepts including food webs, succession, competition, adaptation, and symbiosis.
Understand concepts associated with forests, including stand composition, stand density, and crown classification.
Be familiar with the four most common forest plant communities in California, and know their approximate ranges.
Identify with common names the following tree species without a key, and know their approximate ranges in California:
Identify specific species of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants through the use of a dichotomous identification key. Be familiar with basic terminology related to leaf morphology.

Know how to prepare for conducting forestry fieldwork, including clothing, safety gear, and environmental hazards.
Be familiar with Plot Hound, a forestry inventory app that we will be using for data collection.
Know how to pace a chain.
Know how to use the following forestry tools: Biltmore Stick (diameter and height), clinometer, diameter tape, angle gauge [angle gauge 2], densitometer, and increment borer. For information on purchasing your own set of tools, see our recommended tools list. All of these tools can be purchased from Forestry Suppliers, Inc.
Interpret volume tables and site class tables using raw data.
Determine forest species composition using a 1/10 acre square plot.
Interpret maps, including but not limited to township/range/section, ownership, distances/scale, directional headings, and topography.
Understand how forests are managed to produce timber, and what products are derived from timber.

Know the three branches of the federal government.
Be familiar with the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Watch Forestry Challenge’s interview with Committee Chair Bruce Westerman, the only forester in Congress.
Be familiar with the Western Caucus Foundation.
Watch Forestry Challenge’s interview with the Caucus Chair, Senator Cynthia Lummis from Wyoming.
Be familiar with H.R. 188, the Proven Forest Management Act of 2022, sponsored by Congressman Tom McClintock.
Understand Congressman McClintock’s reasons for introducing H.R. 188.

Understand the various forestland ownerships in California, with special emphasis on private non-industrial forest land.
Be familiar with the four steps to evaluating a forest in order to make decisions about its management.
Understand the importance of creating a long-term vision for your forest.
Be familiar with the California Forest Improvement Program (CFIP).
Watch the video about the CFIP.