forester/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — forester

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 19-4071.00 (Forest and Conservation Technicians).

Task statements

• [Core] Map forest tract data using digital mapping systems.
• [Core] Train and lead forest and conservation workers in seasonal activities, such as planting tree seedlings, putting out forest fires, and maintaining recreational facilities.
• [Core] Thin and space trees and control weeds and undergrowth, using manual tools and chemicals, or supervise workers performing these tasks.
• [Core] Patrol park or forest areas to protect resources and prevent damage.
• [Core] Provide information about, and enforce, regulations, such as those concerning environmental protection, resource utilization, fire safety, and accident prevention.
• [Supplemental] Monitor activities of logging companies and contractors.
• [Supplemental] Select and mark trees for thinning or logging, drawing detailed plans that include access roads.
• [Supplemental] Manage forest protection activities, including fire control, fire crew training, and coordination of fire detection and public education programs.
• [Supplemental] Survey, measure, and map access roads and forest areas such as burns, cut-over areas, experimental plots, and timber sales sections.
• [Supplemental] Keep records of the amount and condition of logs taken to mills.
• [Supplemental] Supervise forest nursery operations, timber harvesting, land use activities such as livestock grazing, and disease or insect control programs.
• [Supplemental] Issue fire permits, timber permits, and other forest use licenses.
• [Supplemental] Develop and maintain computer databases.
• [Supplemental] Measure distances, clean sightlines, and record data to help survey crews.
• [Supplemental] Plan and supervise construction of access routes and forest roads.
• [Supplemental] Provide forestry education and general information, advice, and recommendations to woodlot owners, community organizations, and the general public.
• [Supplemental] Perform reforestation or forest renewal, including nursery and silviculture operations, site preparation, seeding and tree planting programs, cone collection, and tree improvement.
• [Supplemental] Conduct laboratory or field experiments with plants, animals, insects, diseases, and soils.
• [Supplemental] Provide technical support to forestry research programs in areas such as tree improvement, seed orchard operations, insect and disease surveys, or experimental forestry and forest engineering research.
• [Supplemental] Inspect trees and collect samples of plants, seeds, foliage, bark, and roots to locate insect and disease damage.

Detailed work activities

• Advise others about environmental management or conservation.
• Advise others on management of emergencies or hazardous situations or materials.
• Collect biological specimens.
• Collect environmental data or samples.
• Collect geographical or geological field data.
• Conduct research of processes in natural or industrial ecosystems.
• Create maps.
• Cultivate land.
• Develop technical or scientific databases.
• Inspect condition of natural environments.
• Manage agricultural or forestry operations.
• Patrol natural areas to ensure safety or enforce regulations.
• Patrol properties to maintain safety.
• Prepare documentation for permits or licenses.
• Prepare maps.
• Record agricultural or forestry inventory data.
• Record research or operational data.
• Supervise scientific or technical personnel.
• Survey land or properties.
• Train personnel in technical or scientific procedures.