Careers - Forester
If you're interested in the overall management of forests, you could become a Professional Forester or a Forest Technician.
Registered Professional Foresters (RPF) need a minimum of a four-year degree in the forest sciences. They make management decisions, conduct policy analysis, and apply ecological principles to manage the forestland under their supervision.
Forest Technicians most often have a two-year degree in forest technology and work in the field under a Professional Forester's supervision to collect information and data.
There are other careers that are important in managing our forestlands. Foresters work closely with biologists, entomologists, ornithologists, botanists, geologists, hydrologists, and archaeologists to develop the plans that will protect and maintain the forest.
What classes should I take to prepare for college?
Forestry is a science and an art. College forestry degree programs require a strong background in basic sciences as well as skill in writing and public speaking. In high school, take as many mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, earth science and natural resource courses that you can.
It's also a good idea to talk to foresters. And if you have the chance to work or volunteer in the field during summers and class breaks, you'll have a better idea of what to expect when you graduate.
Which schools offer forestry programs?
There are many good forestry programs. The one that's right for you depends on many things. The Society of American Foresters (SAF) has reviewed a number of colleges and universities and put together a list of schools that will give you a good start in picking the one that's right for you. The three SAF accredited universities in California are Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, UC Berkeley and Humboldt State
Related Careers:
Fire Technician-Usually an RPF or Forest Technician that specializes in fire related fields such as geography, physics, geology and firefighting. Many Fire Technicians work as fuel management coordinators and communication contacts for fire organizations. Fire technicians must be physically fit, able to make decisions quickly and have all of the education and organizations skills described above.
Nursery Specialist- Produces high quality seedlings for reforestation projects. They perform duties like soil preparation, pest and disease control and work with field foresters to assist with planting and maintaining seedlings. Nursery Specialists usually have a forestry degree with an emphasis on horticulture. In addition to standard forestry knowledge and skills, many must have mechanical and facilities knowledge to maintain greenhouses and farm equipment.
Silviculturalist-A forest ecologist, similar duties to the RPF, manages forest growth. Helps prepare plans and performs duties such as: thinning, planting, and herbicide application. Must have a degree or Masters degree in forestry and good organizational and managerial skills.
Urban Forester-Works with city planners on community issues in urban areas. Urban Forester's duties can vary from planning and maintaining city parks, to recommending and designing plans for tree planting and coordinating maintenance throughout urban areas. They usually have a degree in forestry or horticulture and need good communication, management and organizational skills.