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December 3, 2007
Opportunities for Foresters are Plentiful
Survey shows employment opportunity over the next 10 years
Minnesota students interested in a career in forestry will find great opportunity in that field over the next ten years. That’s according to a recent survey conducted by the state’s paper and wood products manufacturers.
The survey, conducted by Minnesota Forest Industries, shows 400 foresters will be needed in Minnesota and Wisconsin to fill positions through 2016. Most of these positions will become open through retirements, but some agencies also project increasing their staffing over the next 10 years.
“This presents a great opportunity for students who are looking for rewarding careers,” said MFI Executive Vice President Wayne Brandt. “Professionals who are skilled in taking care of the forest are crucial to ensuring Minnesota’s forests remain healthy and its forest products industry remains a major contributor to the state’s economy.”
“It also shows the critical need for the University of Minnesota to strengthen forestry programs at the new College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences,” Brandt said. “Employers need skilled foresters and the U of M has a proud tradition of leadership in providing them.”
Currently, the University graduates 12 foresters per year.
Foresters work for both government and private industry. They manage and protect the forests, direct harvests, and supervise the planting and growing of new trees.
A knowledge of and expertise in silvicultural activities is the most important skill for prospective hires, according to survey respondents. Timber sale design/harvesting systems, GIS/information systems, and inventory were other skills cited by companies and agencies expecting to hire foresters.
“Foresters are important for the effectiveness of not only forest products companies, but also of the Department of Natural Resources, the Forest Service and other agencies,” Brandt said.
MFI surveyed 69 companies and agencies that hire foresters and asked them to project their needs over the next ten years based on factors such as organizational structure and planned retirements.
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