Are you someone who has an outdoorsy personality with a spirit of adventure and would prefer an outdoor workplace with natural lighting instead of fluorescent lights? If so, you might want to consider pursuing a career in forestry and wildlife management.
Careers in forestry and wildlife management are crucial and fascinating. A country’s forests are one of its essential natural resources. Forest resources have been used by humans as a food source from the beginning of time. They grow the most incredible plants, medicines, natural cosmetics, and more. Since forests provide a home for animals, forestry and wildlife science go together.
Continue reading to learn more about forestry, careers in forestry and wildlife, and current job prospects.
The study of forest and wildlife science
The study of developing and managing forests and wildlife science is known as forestry. Forestry entails maintaining forests and growing trees to provide a steady supply of useful wood. A forester looks after forest resources by defending them against disease, pests, fire, and the indiscriminate removal of trees.
Now, let’s explore who is a forester and what a forester does.
Life of a forester
A forester practices the scientific management and preservation of forests. Foresters now have a responsibility to guarantee carbon sequestration, improved air quality, and preserved biodiversity due to the progressive growth in global pollutants over time. Ecological restoration, timber harvesting, and ongoing management of protected areas are just a few of the many tasks that foresters are involved in. They also oversee routine forest activities such as raw material extraction, aesthetics, outdoor enjoyment, conservation, and preservation.
Roles and responsibilities of a forester
The duties of a forester range from developing original plans for harvesting timber to the safeguarding of environmental resources and the application of forestry regulations. We have mapped out the key duties and responsibilities of a forester:
- Ensure ecological restoration, timber harvesting, and the preservation of natural resources
- Create forest management strategies for lands with both private and public ownership
- Plan and manage various projects relating to forestry
- Select locations for new trees
- Encourage the use of renewable forest products to advance a sustainable economy
Career in forestry in India
People looking to make a career in forestry in India have an opportunity to work in both the public and private sectors. Jobs in the public sector can be found at zoos, wildlife reserves, businesses with plantations for harvesting timber, wildlife research facilities, the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) and its affiliated institutions, the wildlife department, the forest department, national parks and sanctuaries, and forest nurseries.
A high school diploma or at least a bachelor’s degree in conservation science or forestry is commonly required for entry into this field. Bachelor’s degree holders in forestry may apply for positions with the Central Government by taking the Indian Forest Service (IFS) test, which is administered by the Union Public Service Commission. In terms of salary, entry level positions on average earn Rs. 5-6 lakhs per year in India, depending on education and expertise.
Pros and cons of being a forester
Foresters are required to spend time outside, occasionally in remote regions, in addition to spending time in offices. For many folks, the urge to work outside is a major lure. However, working in a forest isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Numerous tasks associated with this employment are physically taxing—and occasionally hazardous — and may call for an erratic work schedule.
Let’s take a look at the positives and negatives of this profession.
Pros
- People who object to the thought of spending their entire workday in an office may find employment in the forestry industry appealing. Many forest settings are secluded and have a variety of climates, flora, and species of wildlife, which contributes to their attraction.
- The opportunity to actively contribute to protecting and enhancing the environment is another tempting feature for those who work in these fields. Their actions could, for instance, aid in the containment or prevention of wildfires, saving plant and animal life, protecting natural habitats, and preventing the loss of neighbouring property.
- Provides an opportunity to put their knowledge to use while working with cutting-edge machinery.
Cons
- Despite being in a beautiful setting, a forestry job may be hazardous. For instance, people working in the forestry industry are subject to all types of weather. Extreme temperatures and weather can result in hazards for individuals who work outside, such as ice-covered roadways and lightning strikes, in addition to the inconvenience and displeasure of working in the rain, snow, and other types of precipitation.
- Regular outdoor work can both be physically and mentally draining.
- People looking to step into the industry of forestry must feel at ease working alone, moving heavy equipment, and interacting with animals of various sizes and forms, from bears to mosquitoes.
To explore forestry as a career option in more detail, reach out to LaunchMyCareer for personalized career counselling. We’re here to help.
