A.L. Hammett, III

Associate Professor, Forest Products Marketing and Management

Coordinator of International Programs for the College

Wood Science & Forest Products
210D Cheatham Hall
Blacksburg, VA 24061-0323

Voice: (540)-231-2716
Fax: (540)-231-8176
Email Address: himal@vt.edu

More information about me

This summer study abroad course is open to everyone. Knowledge of global forest resources, products, and issues related to their use and management is a major requirement for those working in the natural resource sector. This program is designed to expose participants to a broad array of interdependent and international influences on the management of the world's forest and the extraction and use of forest products. This course enhances understanding of the role forest enterprises play in world society, and on the environment and economy. It features current issues important in our daily lives such as green certification, deforestation, and international trade of forest products.

I have started a program at Virginia Tech in Non-timber Forest Products. Virginia Tech, the Top of the Ozarks RC&D in Missouri, and the USDA Forest Service are collaborating to develop and operate the first web site devoted to gathering information on non-timber or special forest products (SFPs). We are compiling information in a simple format and provide a national clearing-house for SFPs, so that it is accessible to you. We are especially interested in hearing from harvesters and growers, forest landowners and managers, marketers, processors, and end-users.

To help make this web site a useful tool for you, please:

• Send in your questions so they can be posted on the web site;
• Submit your SFP product, processing, and management information so it may be shared with others;
• Utilize the web site selling or buying SFPs; or
• Seek or suggest information sources.

This course studies the operation of forest product companies. Problems facing forest product producers and current management practices. The application of quantitative techniques to budgeting, allocation and grade mix decisions. Use of computer software to implement techniques. Includes case studies of wood products manufacturing companies.
 

This course covers the distribution, characteristics, economics, and trends in development and use of the world's forest resources. Role of forests and related renewable natural resources in national and international development. Deforestation problems and reforestation opportunities. International trade in forest products.
 

This graduate level course is being offered at the VT/UVA Northern Virginia Center and through distance learning technology.
Use of forest products and the management of forests have important global economic and environmental consequences. A thorough understanding of the influences on the world's forest resources and forest products will help ensure the health and sustainable management and use of these resources, and the availability of products and services in the Unites States. This course will enhance the knowledge and understanding of the use of the world's forest-based resources and management of its forest based industries, and the issues related to their sustainability. The course is well suited for those with work experience who wish to extend their job skills and gain a global perspective.
 

These links are to interesting web pages supported by forestry, forest products, environmental, and non-government organizations.