Introduction to Computing Applications in Forestry and Natural Resource Management

Due to the complexity of operational forestry problems, computing applications are becoming pervasive in all aspects of forest and natural resource management. This book provides a comprehensive introduction to computers and their applications in forest and natural resource management and is designed for both undergraduate and graduate students in forestry and natural resources. It introduces state-of-the-art applications for several of the most important computer technologies in terms of data acquisition, data manipulation, basic programming techniques, and other related computer and Internet concepts and applications. This book consists of six parts and 19 chapters.

"Dr. Jingxin Wang has authored an excellent textbook to introduce students in the natural resource management to the foundations of computing and common computing applications. It takes a student beyond the simplistic use of spreadsheets to help them master more complex analysis and take advantage of the power of relational databases including search protocols. I expect this book will find use in many programs to expand student’s use of computing to help solve natural resource management problems." —Dale Greene, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA"This must-read book fills an important gap in the toolbox of the modern forester, and is full of important information for anyone who wants to make proficient use of the large computing potential hidden within most general-purpose software. Prof. Wang is clearly most competent with the subject and offers an effective guide through the complexity of computing. A clear explanation of the general theory is supported by practical examples with forestry subjects, in a logical progression that leads to full apprehension and proficiency. This is go-to-guide that will occupy a prominent and often-visited spot on our bookshelves!" —Raffaele Spinelli, CNR IVALSA, Florence, Italy"Jingxin Wang has compiled a textbook that covers the use and applications of computers in Forestry that will be extremely helpful to the reader. He starts from the beginning and informs the reader where and how computer applications can be applied to increase efficiencies for a user. He has summarized the steps needed to assist the reader with program development that will ensure the user is recording, storing and using any data in the manner they require. This book will be a valuable resource for all in the forest products industry, including educators, managers and field personnel, who manipulate data." —Tom Gallagher, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA"Introduction to Com

Dr. Jingxin Wang is Professor and Associate Director for Research, and the Director of Renewable Materials and Bioenergy Research Center in the Division of Forestry and Natural Resources at West Virginia University, USA. He received his degrees in Forest/Mechanical Engineering from Northeast Forestry University, China. He received a M.S. in Computer Science from West Virginia University, and a Ph.D. in Forest Resource Management from the University of Georgia, USA. His research interests include biomass energy and bioproducts, forest carbon sequestration and optimization, computer simulation and system modeling, and forest ecosystem management and climate change. Dr. Wang has authored or coauthored 150 refereed papers, and 12 books or book chapters. Currently, he is a leading PI for seven USDA and USDOE biomass energy and bioproducts projects. He has served as an editorial board member and associate editor for four international journals and adjunct professor for four Chinese universities/institutions. He is an active member in six international professional societies.