On Monday, a forestry technician might collect field data about conditions
and recreational use on an existing hiking trail. Tuesday, they could be
helping fire crews battle a wild fire. And Wednesday, they could be deciding
how to extend a forest road without harming any wildlife. Variety is part
of the job.
Forestry technicians specialize in many different areas. They might perform
assessments for harvesting trees, or work to protect wildlife and waterways.
Some forestry technicians work in tree planting. There are many different
possibilities, all involving the maintenance and protection of our forests.
"It's a truly technical and science-based position," says John Pineau.
He is the executive director of a forestry institute.
Any bush or forest experience will help future technicians. Forestry technicians
use instruments like global positioning system (GPS) devices, maps, compasses
and geographical information systems.
The modern technology used in forestry helps forestry technicians make
the most of the time they spend outside. They must collect data as it relates
to the soil, wildlife and other parts of the forest. They monitor the forests
and make sure all rules and regulations are followed.
"We have to have eyes and ears in the forest," says Pineau. He says forest
technicians have a nice mix of outdoor and indoor work. Once they collect
data outside, they have to input and analyze it at the office. "So many people
who get into this line of work want to work outside. It's a big attraction."
Some forestry technicians work primarily in firefighting. "When you first
begin, it's 90 percent-plus outdoor work," says Randy Nelson. He's the program
manager of the Grangeville Smokejumpers in Idaho.
If a forest is not on fire, his workers have other duties involving the
forest. Recreation, timber and reforestation work are also done by Nelson's
team. The idea is to collect data about use and conditions on wilderness trails,
roads and facilities and make recommendations for changes.
Forestry technicians must have good bush legs and be physically fit.
"You don't have to be really strong, but you should be able to handle the
bush and walking and riding quads," says Pineau. He adds that some technicians
can work more in the office, so opportunities do exist for people with physical
challenges.
Many positions require a medical examination to make sure candidates are
able to perform duties including walking, climbing, shovelling, chopping,
throwing, lifting, and carrying objects of 100 pounds or more for distances
of up to 20 miles.
Being a forestry technician is physically demanding. You'll be outside
walking long distances to collect your data -- and heavily wooded areas have
hidden dangers such as slippery terrain, snakes, bad weather, bugs, and hidden
roots and vines.