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Degrees and Schools
The Society of American Foresters provides accreditation to numerous associate degree programs in forest technology. These programs are provided by technical schools and community colleges. Forest technology associate degree programs prepare students to assist foresters in the protection, management and production of forest resources. One-year certificate programs are also available. Also, some schools provide internships or cooperative education programs.
Classes
Students typically study the following subjects:
- Applied chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Conservation techniques
- Forest surveying
- Forest ecology
- Botany
Online Classes and Programs
Due to the substantial amount of hands-on training involved, students typically take on-campus programs.
Employment Requirements
Most forest and conservation technicians need to have an associate degree or a certificate in forest technology, applied science or science-related technology. Most employers prefer to hire those who have at least two years of specialized postsecondary training or an associate degree. Some forest and conservation technicians have a natural sciences bachelor's degree.
The major employer is the federal government. Other significant employers are state government agencies and professional, scientific and technical firms.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
The answers to the following questions can help students choose the appropriate school:
- Training - Does the program provide a substantial amount of hands-on training? Does the program include an externship?
- School's Reputation - Is the school recognized for its forest technology program?
- Job Placement - Are students provided job placement services?
- Curriculum - What type of electives are offered?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school eligible to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the forest technology program accredited by the Society of American Foresters?
Forest and Conservation Technicians Job Description
Forest and conservation technicians perform a variety of tasks related to the conservation of forest areas. They help conservation scientists manage and improve wildlife habitat and rangelands. They collect information about soil and water quality, disease and insect damage to trees and other types of information.
Some forest and conservation technicians train and oversee forest and conservation workers in planting tree seedlings, maintaining recreational facilities and other tasks. Some forest and conservation technicians are involved with urban forestry.
Shown below are some of their responsibilities:
- Manage forest protection activities
- Select trees for thinning and logging
- Keep records of the amount and condition of logs taken to mills
- Monitor activities of logging companies and contractors
- Collect various types of data
- Monitor the health and safety of natural lands
- Track wildlife movement
Resources
- Forest Resources Association
- American Forest and Paper Association
- U.S. Forest Service
- Center for International Forestry Research
- FAO Forestry Department
- The National Forest
