How to Turn a Forestry Degree into a Meaningful Career?

Answer 1

Working in forestry can be both challenging and meaningful. However, exactly what it means to be a forester is a mystery to many people. Being a forester today can mean working under a variety of job titles and with a broad range of duties. Obtaining a forestry degree can open many different doors of opportunity for students who have an interest in the outdoors and who want to work to temper the stresses between industry, recreation, and conservation.

Many people with forestry degree will be employed by either the federal government, or a state or local government. They may help manage the competing interests of those who want to harvest timber, and those who believe a particular forest should be preserved. This can be a particularly difficult task, and a great degree of diplomacy and tact are required for these jobs. While such a job is undoubtedly demanding, workers in such a position have the opportunity to influence the use of forest land for the benefit of all involved as they strike a balance between economic and environmental interests.

Not all tasks involved with being a forester are political, however. People with forestry degrees also help to replant forests, battle harmful insects and diseases, and make important stewardship decisions about the future of forest lands. They may oversee controlled burns, create plans for regenerating a particular area, or supervise harvests. This generally requires that an individual possess an interest in sustainability and sound environmental practices.

Most jobs in this field will require a Bachelor’s Degree in forestry for entry-level employment. Some foresters may decide to teach or perform research, in which case obtaining a Ph.D. is desirable. Before deciding upon a forestry degree program, it is important to determine whether it is accredited by The Society of American Foresters. A degree from one of these accredited institutions can expedite the route to attaining a first job. Learning will continue with a great deal of on-the-job training, and opportunities for specialization will crop up as experience grows.

Whatever route is chosen, students can be certain that their contribution to the nation’s forests will have a lasting impact for generations to come.