Forest and Conservation Workers
Overview
Forest and Conservation Workers help protect and improve forests, wetlands, and rangelands by working closely with scientists and foresters. They select trees for harvesting, supervise tree planting and nursery operations, map forest areas using GPS technology, and train teams to fight forest fires and maintain recreational facilities. These workers also monitor logging companies, keep detailed records, and educate the public about fire safety and environmental protection. This career combines outdoor work with technology and offers opportunities to make a real impact on environmental conservation.
Did you know?
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in forestry or natural resources, with many employers preferring candidates certified by the Society of American Foresters.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$41,911.60 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Persuasion
Key Responsibilities
- Erect signs or fences, using posthole diggers, shovels, or other hand tools.
- Maintain tallies of trees examined and counted during tree marking or measuring efforts.
- Select tree seedlings, prepare the ground, or plant the trees in reforestation areas, using manual planting tools.
- Thin or space trees, using power thinning saws.
- Provide assistance to forest survey crews by clearing site-lines, holding measuring tools, or setting stakes.
- Identify diseased or undesirable trees and remove them, using power saws or hand saws.
- Prune or shear tree tops or limbs to control growth, increase density, or improve shape.
- Select or cut trees according to markings or sizes, types, or grades.
- Spray or inject vegetation with insecticides to kill insects or to protect against disease or with herbicides to reduce competing vegetation.
- Operate skidders, bulldozers, or other prime movers to pull a variety of scarification or site preparation equipment over areas to be regenerated.
- Confer with other workers to discuss issues, such as safety, cutting heights, or work needs.
- Check equipment to ensure that it is operating properly.
- Explain or enforce regulations regarding camping, vehicle use, fires, use of buildings, or sanitation.
- Sort tree seedlings, discarding substandard seedlings, according to standard charts or verbal instructions.
- Maintain campsites or recreational areas, replenishing firewood or other supplies and cleaning kitchens or restrooms.
- Fight forest fires or perform prescribed burning tasks under the direction of fire suppression officers or forestry technicians.
- Perform fire protection or suppression duties, such as constructing fire breaks or disposing of brush.
Career Considerations
Educational Requirements and Certification
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in forestry or natural resources, with many employers preferring candidates certified by the Society of American Foresters.
Physical Demands and Outdoor Work Environment
The role involves extensive fieldwork in various weather conditions and remote locations, requiring strong physical fitness and comfort with outdoor environments.
Competitive Entry-Level Market with Growth Potential
While entry-level positions can be highly competitive, the field offers advancement opportunities into specialized roles such as fire management, wildlife conservation, or forest management leadership.