This text serves as an introduction to the major abiotic and biotic factors that influence forest ecosystem composition, structure, and function. It reviews important processes that influence the structure and function of forest ecosystems, and uses basic ecosystem concepts to elucidate the influence of anthropogenic (including forest management) and natural disturbances on forest ecosystem structure and function.

It is my hope that after reading this text, students will be able to achieve the following learning objectives:

• Describe global and local biogeographical regions as well as the major paleoecological events (e.g., continental drift and climate change) responsible for their development.
• Explain how environmental factors influence net photosynthesis, ecosystem productivity, and nutrient cycling.
• Explain how population and community dynamics of plants are influenced by disturbance, stress, and species interactions.
• Explain natural and anthropogenic factors that influence soil types, mineral nutrient availability, and plant community characteristics.
• Explain trade-offs involved in biodiversity conservation, economic development, and mitigation of climate change.
• Appreciate the value of forests (ecological, economical, and cultural) and understand the threats they face.