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!"