What is the science called that focuses on producing and tending a forest?

The science that focuses on producing and tending a forest is known as silviculture. Silviculture encompasses a range of practices and principles aimed at managing forest growth, health, and sustainability. It involves understanding the interactions between trees, soil, climate, and ecosystem dynamics to cultivate and maintain healthy forest environments. Silviculturists apply knowledge of species selection, planting practices, thinning, harvesting, and regeneration methods to achieve desired outcomes such as timber production, wildlife habitat enhancement, and overall forest resilience.

While forestry management is a broader term that encompasses various aspects of managing forest resources, including policy and economic factors, silviculture specifically deals with the biological and ecological methods of growing and nurturing trees. Other options like tree cultivation and plantation science are more narrowly focused and do not encompass the full range of practices involved in managing entire forests or ecosystems.