Forestry professionals conduct research, develop plans and administer and direct programs related to the management and harvesting of forest resources. They are employed by the forest industry, provincial and federal governments, consulting companies, educational institutions and other industries, or they may be self-employed.
Possible Titles:
appraisal forester consulting forester district forester forest engineer forester forestry superintendent professional forester regional inventory officer - forestry registered professional forester (RPF)
Responsibilities:
Foresters can perform some or all of the following duties:
Plan and direct forest surveys and related studies and prepare reports and recommendations
Establish short- and long-term plans for management of forest lands and forest resources
Plan and direct woodlands harvesting, reforestation, silviculture and fire prevention and fire suppression programs, road building, wildlife management, environmental protection and insect and vegetation control programs
Negotiate terms and conditions of agreements and contracts for forest harvesting, forest management and leasing of forest lands
Monitor contract compliance and results of forestry activities
Ensure adherence to government regulations and company objectives
Plan and conduct public relations programs, and education and extension programs related to forestry
Develop and oversee programs for tree seedling production and woodlands nursery operations
Conduct advanced research in the areas of tree improvement, nursery seedling production, forest soils, forest ecology, forest mensuration, forest operations and other areas
Provide advice and recommendations, as a consultant on forestry issues, to private woodlot owners, municipal, provincial or federal governments or to companies.
Employment Requirments:
A bachelor's degree in forestry or forestry engineering is required.
Certification as a forester or forest engineer by provincially chartered associations is required in provinces having such associations.
A two-year practicum of supervised work experience and professional examinations are usually required before registration.
Supervisory and senior occupations in this unit group require additional experience.
Additional information:
With experience, mobility is possible to management positions in government and industry.
Courtesy of: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada