Introduction to Computing Applications in Forestry and Natural Resource Management

"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 Computing Applications in Forestry and Natural Resource Management provides a comprehensive treatment of computing concepts, as well as specific applications of computer technology in forest and natural resource management. The book starts with an easy-to-read introduction to computing concepts. These concepts are then applied to database management and analysis, computer programming, optimization, spatial analysis, and forest resources management solutions. The author invites readers to apply basic to advanced software programs and digital tools including MS Excel, MS Access, GIS, GPS, VB.NET, ASP.NET and HTML for natural resource management. This is a must-read book for current and future forestry and natural resource professionals." —Woodam Chung, Oregon State University, USA "Forestry has become an increasingly technological-driven endeavor. Thus, creating new natural resource managers for the future requires integrating divergent skill sets such as basic forestry and computer technology. Dr. Wang has written a book to foster these future students into this progressively complex world. The book showcases excellent real-world examples of taking a student from the woods collecting information back to the classroom analyzing the results and preparing the reports. These real-world examples outlined in the book combine classroom with hands-on training critical to developing the understanding and knowledge to succeed." — Richard Bergman, USDA Forest Service Forest Products Laboratory, Madison, Wisconsin, USA "Huge gains in quality and economics are foreseen when applying Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in production and services industries and, in particular, in forestry and natural resource management. This book helps students as well as practitioners for a basic understanding of computing concepts as a fundamental base of any ICT. Easy to understand explanation of theoretic grass roots, including main elements and concepts of computing infrastructure and data processing tools, are combined with hands-on examples relevant for forestry and natural resource management. For better learning through reflection, the book provides motivating class exercises and in-depth study opportunities by extended literature listings. This book should be included in any study program of natural resource managers and those to become to get familiar with fundamentals and tools needed in ICT." — Dirk Jaeger, University of Freiburg, Germany