Overview

A forester is a professional in charge of caring for, planting and managing trees or forests. They are involved in a range of activities including restoration, conservation, timber harvest, and managing protected wooded areas.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Conduct technical forestry work including: timber marking, volume estimation, technical assistance for use of forest, sale of forest products
• Collect forest data
• Establish and measure permanent forest sample plots
• Prepare stands for contract tree planting
• Prepare contracts for harvesting forest products and other contract services
• Mark and investigate trees that are ready to be harvested
• Interpret aerial photographs of plots
• Coordinate and conduct felled-tree volume studies
• In instances of burning, evaluate areas to be burned prior to and after burning
• Maintain burning records and evaluations
• Use forest measurement instruments and electronics
• Perform pre-inspection prior to tree-trimming work
• Inspect trees for hazardous potential
• Assist in wildfire prevention
• Respond to wildfire emergencies

What education and training is required?

The majority of Forester roles require bachelor’s degree in forest management, natural resources, fisheries, wildlife, and conservation or a related field.

To pursue a career as a Forester:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, biology, horticulture, mathematics, natural resources, and computer courses.

Where can I work?

Foresters work for timber companies as well as state parks and government agencies. Some are self-employed.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a forester will be good over the next five years. 

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Society of American Foresters
• Association of Consulting Foresters
• National Association of State Foresters
• Forest Resources Association
• Tree Care Industry Association
• State Forestry Associations