Southeast Bulloch High School hosted the Area 4 Forestry Career Development Event (CDE) on February 10, bringing together student teams to test their forestry knowledge and field skills in a rigorous, hands-on competition.
Students competed in four challenging sections designed to reflect real-world forestry practices.
The first section focused on tree identification, where participants identified specimens from live trees and pressed samples by their common names. This portion required students to demonstrate a strong understanding of native tree species and their distinguishing characteristics.
The second event was timber cruising for board volume. Competitors were assigned numbered trees within a designated plot and were required to measure each tree’s diameter at breast height (DBH) to the nearest one-inch class. Using a Biltmore stick, students also determined the merchantable height of each tree, rounding down to the nearest half log. These measurements were then used to calculate board foot volume, simulating a key component of forest inventory and timber valuation.
In the third section, students completed a forest management practicum. Participants were presented with a scenario and evaluated markets available, wildlife considerations, and the present condition of the forest stand. Based on their analysis, they developed a management plan and determined which trees should be harvested, left standing, or deadened to meet management goals. This portion tested students’ critical thinking and understanding of sustainable forestry practices.
The final event was the compass practicum, where students used a hand compass and pacing to the nearest foot to simulate determining property lines on a tract of timber. Accuracy and precision were essential as students demonstrated practical land navigation skills.
The Senior team earned 3rd place overall in Area 4. Team members included Clay Lawrence, Amelia Meadows, Briley Clemens, and Hagan Brown.
The Junior team captured 1st place in Area 4 and will advance to the State Forestry Career Development Event in March. Junior team members are Addy Harrison, Hoyt Lawrence, Ansley Frye, and Brayden Clemens. Addy Harrison was recognized as the High Individual of the event, earning the top overall individual score.
The Forestry Career Development Event provides students with valuable hands-on experience and insight into forestry careers, while promoting leadership, teamwork, and technical skills essential to the industry.
