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Forest/Conservation Worker

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Providing people with lumber and lumber products is not a simple job, but forestry technicians do it.

"Forestry covers everything from pre-harvesting and determining volume and value of trees to harvesting cut blocks and shipping that wood around the world. Then we have an obligation to give back to nature what we took, and maybe even make a better and more valuable ecosystem in return," says Jason W. Hinks. He's a forest technician.

Hinks says the hardest part of his job is the paperwork. He must keep up with changing policies, paperwork and forms. While paperwork may be frustrating, fieldwork can be dangerous.

"The most dangerous would have to be just driving on the forest roads, which is a large part of what you do," he says.

Animals are another risk. Hinks has never been attacked by a bear, but he's worked side-by-side with them. He's also been stalked and charged on occasion by black bears and grizzlies.

"I love the outdoors, and there is nothing like being out in the middle of nowhere working hand-in-hand with nature. My job also allows me the freedom and responsibility to get the job done however I see fit," he says.

"I would most definitely encourage people to get into my line of work. It is very fulfilling and challenging," adds Hinks.

The balance of field and office work is a huge draw for many forestry technicians. Although most of the time is spent outdoors, some office days provide a nice mix.

"Being outside is the best thing, You have peace and quiet. It brings such a feeling of fulfillment to get paid to tromp through the bush," says technician Natasha Kavli.

But if you are imagining yourself leaping through fields of pansies under the bright sunshine, think again. Forest technicians work in tough terrain and all sorts of weather conditions. That includes cold, rainy days when no rain gear is going to keep you dry or warm.

"I love my job and I find it very rewarding, but if you don't like hard physical work in all of the elements, then it's going to be tough. Being a forest tech means you're out in the field 98 percent of the time and it's also very hard on the body and sometimes the mind," she says.

In addition to weather and terrain hazards, wildlife is a reality in the forest.

"I have encountered a bear and many moose, but it is just a part of working in the bush. You just have to know and understand that you may stumble upon a bear or a moose with a calf and be prepared mentally and physically," says Kavli.

Forestry technicians working under Randy Nelson must be able to take a lot of heat. He's the program manager of the Grangeville Smokejumpers in Idaho. During fire season, May to October, his team of airborne firefighters fly to remote locations. They parachute down to control the flames.

Advancements in equipment and training have led to a programmatic approach. That makes the career professional and safe, says Nelson. He adds there have been four or five fatalities in 70 years. "We're not looking to attract thrill-seekers," he says. He wants to attract more dedicated, young workers.

"There is certainly some sacrifice. But it's really rewarding," says Nelson. "The people we work with... are some of the best people in the world. They're people to lean on and depend on when you need help."

Travel required in this position requires a lot of time spent away from home. He has enjoyed traveling throughout his career in forestry.

"I've been to every corner of the U.S. and Alaska. It's an adventure," he says.

Although those starting out in the position spend most of their time outdoors, Nelson now spends most of his time at a desk. As a manager, he's had to adjust to the rapidly increasing technology to perform his administrative functions.

Meeting great people and getting to travel are welcome benefits for tree planters. Although tree planting alone is a small part forest work, it's a great way to gain fieldwork experience. Since it's mostly seasonal work, many forestry students find summer jobs as tree planters.

"I love the traveling involved with tree planting," says Sonaiya Cornish. Although it's a hard day's work, the great wage is her pay off. She explains that the first year you do it you may not make as much money as more experienced planters. But as you get better, so does your paycheck. Plus, dodging falling trees and wildlife keeps you on your toes. Cornish tries her best to be prepared for the dangers.

"It is important to know the emergency signals for 'bear on the block' or other emergencies. You don't want to be left alone on the block when there is a grizzly hanging around. You should always know who is planting on either side of you, just in case of emergency," says Cornish. She was followed by a black bear last summer.

As a tree planter, she's found towns that she didn't know existed and camped in the middle of nowhere. Once her tent zipper was broken and she was eaten alive by mosquitoes, and another time she fell off a cliff!

"I know it sounds horrible, but it's all adventure," says Cornish. "If you enjoy working outside, like physical work and adventure, this is the job for you!"

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