Careers in Natural Science and Resource Management

Forester

Job Description

A forester manages forest lands and their resources. Duties include supervising fire-fighting crews, replanting after fires and working to prevent and treat damage to timber resulting from insects, diseases and other causes. A forester must also know how to prevent soil erosion and floods. He or she must estimate how much timber is available for cutting in a forest area and how much money it is worth. The forester must know about surveying, mapping and road-building in order to plan roads into forest areas. He or she manages and protects wildlife and may be in charge of recreational activities like hunting, fishing, camping and hiking.

Skills

• A forester must have an interest in outdoor work, forest and wildlife and modern business practices

Preparation

College degree in forestry and work experience with a forester.