Forester (General)

Foresters use forest management techniques to support landowner, business, or governmental agency goals for a forest. They communicate with landowners and loggers, manage timber stands, and solve problems as they arise. Foresters must understand all aspects of land management and how use of the forest impacts other things like water, soil and wildlife. Foresters often develop a specific skillset to meet the needs of the agency, business, or people they work for.

• • Able to walk long distances
  • Able to follow rules/regulations
  • Curious
  • Organized
  • Resourceful

Median $62,000: $48,000 – $100,000

+ 4%

4 year degree in forestry from a Society of American Foresters accredited university

• • Forestry
  • Biology
  • Natural Resources
  • Environmental Science
  • Chemistry
  • Statistics

Foresters have a fluid job. Sometimes they will be in the forest traversing various terrain in a variety of weather conditions to collect data while other times they work in the office analyzing the data they collected, doing calculations and establishing management plans. Foresters often look for opportunities that have the right balance of forest and office time for them.

• • Use forest measurement and mapping tools, including GIS
  • Understand scientific language and methods
  • Identify trees and common diseases / invasive species
  • Problem solve
  • Write and speak clearly
  • Develop plans that balance landowner needs with environmental impact

• • Collect and analyze forest data
  • Write reports and management plans
  • Prepare contracts
  • Maintain records
  • Perform inspections
  • Mark and measure trees

• Wisconsin DNR Careers in Forestry – Forester Video
• Ag Explorer – Forester
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics: Foresters
• My Next Move – Foresters