Forest sciences at HAFL: a success story

On the initiative of the cantonal forestry directors, training at university of applied sciences level was created in 2002. In September 2003, nine students began their studies in forestry at the then Swiss College of Agriculture (SHL). The training to become a forest engineer FH initially met with scepticism in the field. Thanks to their practically oriented training, the students were well-suited to perform core tasks in the cantonal forestry services. Soon, however, they were sought-after experts who convinced with their training. With the integration of the School of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences (HAFL) into the Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH), activities in the field of research and development were steadily developed. Today, the Department of Forest Sciences employs a good 50 people who deal with economic, technical and ecological topics.