Foresters care for trees and forests. There are a few different kinds of
forestry, all focused on managing and maintaining our forests.
Operational forestry, for instance, includes regeneration silviculture
(growing trees), forest engineering of cut blocks and roads, forest biology
and timber use.
There are other types of forestry as well. These include research, forestry
nurseries, government inspections, policy development and long-term land-use
planning for forests.
"The forestry profession encompasses a wide range beyond operational forestry,"
says Lindley Charlotte Little. She's a registered professional forester.
Foresters are responsible for protecting trees from insects, disease, fire
and mismanagement. They study forest areas and decide how each section of
forest should be managed in the long term. They also try to find the most
effective way of harvesting trees and planting new ones.
Foresters must work closely with environmental groups, government, landowners,
loggers, industry and the public, exchanging information about forest issues.
"You have to work in a team environment every day," says Brian Marcus. He's
a registered professional forester.
Marcus explains that it takes a team effort to complete all the jobs needed
to log areas. "There are also many different contractors with unique personalities
that you have to manage."
Most foresters spend a good portion of their work time outdoors. Their
work requires physical stamina and strength. "I am mainly a field forester,"
explains Marcus. "I don't spend too much time in the office."
Foresters who work in research and education have less active jobs. Most
of their time is spent in a lab or office, but they can count on a few days
a month in the woods.
Computer skills are important. "We manage data in a variety of forestry
software applications," says Little.
Marcus says that a person with a physical disability would find it challenging
to move through some terrain foresters must cover. "However, there are many
forestry jobs that do not require field work," he explains "It would still
be a rewarding career."
Little agrees that a person with a physical disability could work in mapping,
policy development and consultation, but some other areas might pose problems.
"Unfortunately, most career paths in forestry develop with field work as a
base," she explains. "Field work is where you 'pay your dues.' Employers usually
hire foresters experienced in operational field work for those jobs. A person
with a disability might find it challenging to get hired."
Foresters work in three main areas: in government, for forest companies
and as independent consultants. All three groups have a large number of responsibilities.
Foresters who work for the government develop forest standards for the
public. They do this by giving input into the creation of legislation and
regulations.
Foresters at forest companies are in charge of developing responsible and
profitable harvesting practices.
Consultants can do all of these things but work on their own.