Careers in ’s Forest Sector

Volume 1: Options for College-Bound Students A career in Oregon’s Roots of Oregon Forestry forest sector offers an Foresters and forest products manufacturers are part of a long exciting opportunity to apply scientific forest sector legacy. Oregon’s original Native American inhabitants principles and practical business skills developed a sophisticated understanding of natural systems, especially forests and rivers. The wood they obtained from Oregon’s in forest management or wood products vast stands of Douglas-fir, cedar and other trees provided for many manufacturing. These careers benefit staples, including shelter, clothing, containers and ceremonial Oregon’s forest ecology, economy and objects. Native peoples used fire and other techniques to create clearings for berry crops and to promote grazing by elk. In a sense, The Oregon Legislature created the Oregon society. Today’s innovative forest sector they were Oregon’s original forest managers. Forest Resources Institute (OFRI) in 1991 stays on top of scientific discoveries and to improve public understanding of forests, new technologies to compete in a highly forest products and forest management and to competitive global marketplace. The As westward migration across the a year after the U.S. Forest Service encourage sound forestry through landowner field attracts bright college graduates Oregon Trail brought thousands of became a Federal agency, OSU training. In keeping with this mission, OFRI families in need of shelter, Oregon’s offered a four-year undergraduate who thrive in a dynamic environment. sponsors classroom and field programs for trees became an important resource. and a one-year graduate program In 1827, the Hudson Bay Company in forestry. By 1913, the School K-12 students and teachers and produces This publication is a guide for high set up the first sawmill west of the of Forestry was established at educational publications such as this. school students who are in the process Mississippi River, on the north shore OSU, laying a solid foundation for of the Columbia River. In 1938, Oregon Oregon’s forestry profession in the of identifying college and career became the leading U.S. state for years to come. options. Those who enjoy and excel softwood timber production, a position it still holds today. in outdoor activities, environmental Forestry as a profession in the United science, biology, math and related fields States dates back more than a century, should consider a career in forestry. and Oregon was one of the early leaders in the field. The first Oregon Students may gain useful insights from course in forestry was offered at reading about the variety of forest Oregon Agricultural College, later to become Oregon State University (OSU) sector professionals profiled in this in Corvallis. Two years later, in 1898, publication, including their main job the first school of forestry in the U.S. opened at Cornell University. In 1906, duties, working conditions and the career paths they have taken. There are also resources for further information on forest sector careers available on the Web sites listed at the back of the publication. Father of American Forestry The Oregon Forest Resources Institute When Gifford Pinchot entered Yale University in 1885 and decided to make forestry his will produce a second publication profession, there were no American role models to follow. While the forestry profession was recognized in Europe, it did not yet exist in America. Pinchot wrote at the time, “I on forest sector careers in 2007-08 had no more conception of what it meant to be a forester than the man in the moon. showing additional options for students But at least a forester worked in the woods and I loved the woods and everything who are considering on-the-job or about them.” technical training instead of college. A friendship with Theodore Roosevelt led to Pinchot’s appointment as head of the Division of Forestry in the Roosevelt Administration, and in 1905 he became the first Gifford Pinchot chief of the newly established U.S. Forest Service. His forest management philosophy (1865-1946) incorporating timber harvest, conservation and recreation still guides the Forest Service today.

2 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 3 Growth of the Forest Sector Employment in the Forest Sector

Between 1900 and through the In recent decades, this broader forest computer Today, about 85,000 people are manufacturing means that positions small and large landowners, small post-World War II building boom, ecosystem perspective has brought a modeling employed in Oregon’s forest sector. are available with a variety of businesses and large corporations. huge timber harvests helped meet diversification of the modern forestry programs to show Building on Oregon’s rich forestry employers. Many forestry students are the demands of an increasingly profession to include wildlife and what a forest past, innovations and technical The professional organization members of the Oregon Society of industrialized society. After a peak fisheries biologists and other ecology might look like advances continue to grow and representing foresters is the Society American Foresters (with about harvest year in 1952, the latter half experts, in addition to fields such as in 50, 100 or diversify the field of forestry like of American Foresters (SAF). The 1,000 members) and benefit of the century was a period marked forest engineering. even 200 years as never before. Rising global demand result of actions SAF’s mission is to benefit society from the training and networking by active forest management. The The number and type of modern for wood products and incentives taken today. This by advancing the science, education, opportunities it provides. goal was balance between harvesting forest sector careers have also for well-managed forests are likely information technology, ethics and practice of and growing trees to sustain yields expanded as a result of advances to create even more opportunities helps support forestry. Gifford Pinchot and six Another key organization in the in technology. New laser scanning in the future. In addition, a wave of over time. sustainable forest other pioneer foresters founded SAF forest sector is the Forest Products technology enables mill operators to retirements in the field is expected management decisions. Society, which fosters innovation and Beginning in the 1960s, public position logs precisely for the most over the next decade, opening up in 1900. Since then, it has grown attitudes about forestry shifted efficient cuts as they move through Even the traditional field of many more positions. to represent some 15,000 members research in the use of wood. Its 3,000 to encompass ecological values. saws. Waste wood fiber from sawmills, silviculture (the care and cultivation across the . Many of the worldwide members work in such The wide range of jobs in areas as forestry professionals featured on the Federal laws like the Clean Air Act once discarded, is engineered into of trees) has grown. Foresters now diverse as research, recreation, areas as research and development, following pages are SAF members. (1970), Clean Water Act (1972) useful products such as particleboard. rely on tree genetics and other science land management, new product industrial management and and Endangered Species Act (1973) Wood chemists research and develop to determine the ideal species mix to development and other aspects Members work for federal, state production, marketing, education, elevated public awareness of forest new adhesives, preservatives and target when regenerating a harvested of forestry and forest product or local governments, universities, engineering and consulting. resources, calling for increased water, other innovative products. forest. wildlife and habitat protection. Using satellite imagery, today’s Finally, public demand for recreation Employment in the Forest Sector Oregon’s landmark Forest Practices foresters can analyze tree age has added yet another dimension • U.S.D.A Forest Service (USFS) Act (1971) was the nation’s first state and species mix over large areas to the forest sector. Today forestry The federal government manages about 60% of Oregon’s forestland • Bureau of Land Management (BLM) law requiring reforestation and other of landscape, and plan harvests careers exist in fields such as cultural through a variety of employers. environmental protections on private accordingly. Technology enables resource management and outdoor • (NPS) and state-managed forest lands. planners to use sophisticated education. • Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) • Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) State, county and city land agencies and tribal governments also • Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) manage forest resources. Forestry of the Future: Dr. John Simonsen • City and county natural resources departments Wood Science & Engineering, College of Forestry, Oregon State University • Tribes (e.g., Warm Springs Forest Products) Dr. Simonsen and other wood science and engineering advanced materials could result. These may replace Forestry schools employ foresters and wood scientists as faculty specialists are at the forefront of forestry at the materials that are found in a wide range of everyday • Oregon University System members, researchers and managers of research forests. molecular level. Of the many materials derived from the products, from artificial heart valves to automobile forest, the one with the highest strength and stiffness is components and computer monitors. • Companies with timberlands and tree farms the cellulose crystal, a chemical in the wood itself. Researchers finding new applications for forest products Private businesses produce more than 80% of the state’s wood harvest • Forest products manufacturers Once researchers gain an understanding of what keep Oregon’s forest products industry competitive. and manufacture nearly all of Oregon’s forest and paper products. • Timber investment firms Dr. John Simonsen governs the cellulose crystal’s behavior, a variety of • Logging and forest operators

Professional Collaboration in Forestry How do I know if a forest In many careers today, collaboration with other professionals in the field is an essential part of the job. In forestry, that sector job is for me? collaboration may include biologists, water specialists, engineers and managers, all working together to meet related goals. A forest sector career might be a good fit Here is an example of how forestry professionals might collaborate to ensure stream water quality near a pending timber for you if you enjoy the following: harvest site. • Watching wildlife • Reading about science or the outdoors A fisheries biologist assesses stream habitat conditions and needs, and advises a forest hydrologist. This specialist • Working with computers and tools calculates the amounts of surface and ground water, determines its rate of flow through the landscape, and recommends • Scouting, hiking and camping specific sizes and placements of culverts for fish passage. The hydrologist also works with foresta engineer, who • Hunting and fishing builds roads to accommodate culverts that minimize sediment run-off, and maximize water flow and fish passage. A forest manager ensures that these infrastructure improvements are part of a budgeted and approved timber harvest plan, and are completed • Working with people in teams appropriately. As part of the operation, a wildlife biologist also may be called upon to determine where to place downed logs in stream channels • Scientific research to provide fish habitat that promotes species diversity and abundance.Forest operators implement these recommendations on the ground. • Gardening and farming

. 4 Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 5 career track Profiles of Forest Sector Professionals Wildlife Biologist

Job Description: Monitors and maintains wildlife health Job Traits Each of the following pages profiles a different forest sector career professional. At the top of the page, a section titled and diversity in managed habitats such as forests. Studies animal “Job Description” explains in general terms what these professionals do on a daily basis. behavior, diseases, genetics and habitat requirements. May specialize Education Mid-Career Using the icons listed below, each career track is further defined in terms of the work environment, as well as key duties, in research or management with tasks ranging from data collection Entry: Edge: Salary Range skills and levels of education commonly associated with the position. Use the icons to connect your own interests and and analysis to ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. $42,000-$64,000 skills to each of the featured career tracks. Finally, at the top of each page is a salary range that suggests what a mid-career professional in the position might expect to earn (2006 data). Mike Rochelle Computer Policy Education/Outreach Jo b : Wildlife Biologist and Habitat Specialist Technology Em p l o y e r : Western Timberlands Environmental Forestry Research, Weyerhaeuser Company, Albany

Writing Active forest operations Although Mike Rochelle always has timber harvest plans or coordinating Math/Quantitative been interested in studying animals contracts for wildlife surveys. When and wildlife, it was a different animal Mike does get into the field, his work Teamwork On-the-job training/ that drew him to forestry – people. “I may include reviewing potential Science/Lab experience grew up around forestry and came to harvest sites, evaluating timber stands see that everyone in this field entered for wildlife issues and surveying for into it because they love the resource,” threatened and endangered species. Self-Directed said Mike, whose father is a wildlife “My job is to generally protect the Outdoors BS degree biologist too. “The love of the outdoors, diverse needs of the wildlife on the trees and the land is what seems to company land and to ensure we comply Management drive everyone who studies forestry.” Wildlife MS degree with federal and state regulations as well as our own internal policies relative to wildlife. I serve as Recreation/Recreation “The love of the outdoors, a liaison on wildlife issues Business/Finance Management Ph.D. the trees and the land is what seems between Weyerhaeuser and to drive everyone who studies forestry.” regulatory agencies.” Mike is a strong believer in the compatibility of managed How Much Do Forest Sector Jobs Pay?* Mike spends his days ensuring the forests and wildlife diversity and The average annual salary for an Oregonian employed in the forestry field is $40,050. well-being of the wildlife living in and abundance, and he enjoys being part of Mike’s Advice This is about 18% higher than the state’s overall average salary for all employment around potential forest harvest sites by a team that includes wildlife well-being Get practical experience, planning how best to maintain habitat as one of its management goals. fields, which is $34,417. What a person earns in a profession depends on: even if it means having to quality. Surprisingly, most of this work do volunteer work. • Education level (high school, associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate) is done from the office, and includes • Location and setting of the work (private sector, university or government agency important tasks like reviewing written as well as urban/rural geographical location) • Experience (years a person has worked, on the job training and range of activities) • Responsibility (technician, supervisor, specialist, owner, etc.) • Performance (how well one performs in a job, strong references from colleagues Mike’s Career Pathway Mike Rochelle’s Forestry Career Path and supervisors) Salaries are usually lower at the beginning of one’s career, but with strong performance - Hunting and fishing with my father and increased experience will likely increase over time. In a 2006 survey of forestry 7 High school science, writing graduates from Oregon State University, the following starting salaries were reported 6 Summer job, Whitman County Parks for these forestry career tracks: Mike’s Surprising Skill ! M.S. Zoology with " B.S. Zoology Forest Management $35,000 wildlife emphasis Working alone in the forest at night 3 Seasonal surveyor for marbled murrelets Recreation Resource Management $30,000 surveying for owls, and getting them 2 Forester, Washington Department of Natural Resources Wood Science and Engineering $46,000 to respond back to my “hooting.” Regional Wildlife Biologist, Washington State Department of Natural Resources Natural Resources $30,000 + Wildlife Biologist, Willamette Industries, Inc. * 2006 data X Wildlife Biologist, Weyerhaeuser Company

6 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 7 career track career track Forest Engineer Recreation Resource Manager

Job Description: Plans, designs and oversees construction Job Traits Job Description: Plans and manages recreational Job Traits and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, channels, opportunities on public or private lands. Balances natural resource dams, pipelines, water systems and other structures associated with Education Mid-Career management with recreational interests and environmental Education Mid-Career the interface between people and the forest environment. Entry: Edge: Salary Range sustainability. Entry: Edge: Salary Range $53,000-$76,000 $40,000–$60,000

Jennifer Beathe Clyde Zeller Jo b : Forest Engineer Jo b : District Recreation Coordinator Em p l o y e r : Starker Forests, Inc., Corvallis Em p l o y e r : Oregon Department of Forestry, Tillamook State Forest

When Starker Forests needs to both indoors and outdoors. Jennifer construct or improve a road, replace divides her time between the office, a culvert or build a bridge, they call where she employs math and technical “My job is to on forest engineer Jennifer Beathe. skills in creating detailed plans, and Forest engineers are trained to apply out in the field, where she supervises expose the public to the forest engineering principles in a forest setting projects such as installation of culverts and ensure their understanding of the way forests work.” and to create and care for the complex on streams to promote fish passage. infrastructure that makes efficient and Jennifer enjoys this combination, and low-impact timber harvest possible. says “I don’t have two days in a row One consequence of Oregon’s Clyde’s interest in forest recreation that are the same.” population growth in recent years has began when he was in his early Jennifer began her career at a time been an increased demand for outdoor 20s, holding a part-time job with of calls to action to help restore recreational opportunities. the Portland Parks and Recreation Oregon salmon runs by improving “I don’t have two days in a row Department. In college, he pursued Clyde Zeller’s job is to address that timber operations. Implementing a degree in recreation and resource demand in the midst of an actively the recommendations set out that are the same.” management. in the Oregon Plan for Salmon managed forest like the Tillamook. and Watersheds, she completed an Jennifer calls her career a great He is the person responsible for Clyde says, “This career is great for inventory of Starker’s road systems one for someone with proficiency campgrounds and trails, relations people who really want to work and planned upgrades to improve in math and science and a love of with neighboring landowners and law outdoors some of the time and are able Best Part of fish habitat. As part of her ongoing the forest. “Being in the woods is full enforcement within the forest. to think creatively, work independently Clyde’s Job? and enjoy interacting with people in Best Part of responsibilities, Jennifer continues of unexpected pleasures,” she says, Recreation jobs like Clyde’s call for When out assessing the more outdoor settings.” He goes on to say Jennifer’s Job? to assess infrastructure elements and “whether it’s coming to a beautiful an expanding range of knowledge remote parts of the Tillamook “Education is a necessity in my field. Hiking in the woods engineer needed modifications to forest vista or discovering fish spawning. and skills, including the use of GIS One has to understand public land Forest, Clyde can’t believe he is sites that often vary in their tree cover, Even on the rainiest of days, satellite technology for trail mapping, with my dog! management in the context of overall “Getting paid to ride off-road soil, slope and other site conditions. something happens to make me love recreation policy development, long- forest policy.” motorcycles and quads my job.” range planning, trail and facility Like many forestry careers, forest on the trail system!” engineering offers the chance to work construction and grant writing.

Jennifer Beathe’s Forestry Career Path Clyde Zeller’s Forestry Career Path Clyde’s Advice - High school math and science, love of the outdoors - High school writing Work on your writing skills. What I 7 College job as timber marker and firefighter, U.S. Forest Service 7 Portland Parks and Recreation job Jennifer’s Advice have to do is write clearly and concisely 6 Summer job surveying and designing roads 6 B.S. Recreation and Resource Management, Oregon State University with a large industrial timber company Do not be afraid to take difficult math everyday. I also suggest you learn how " Summer job timber cruising and inventory of roads, Starker Forests, Inc. and science classes. They help stretch to really listen and empathize with the " USFS Guard Station your mind. With enough determination, public. It is their land and you work in the Idaho Wilderness ! B.S. Forest Engineering, Oregon State University any goal can be attained. for them. Customer service and clear communication are the keys to meeting ! Oregon Department X Forest Engineer, Starker Forests, Inc. of Forestry X District Recreation Coordinator, the user’s expectations. Tillamook State Forest

8 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 9 career track Forester, Public Sector

Job Description: Implements management plans that balance economic, recreational and conservation goals. Objectives include Job Traits conserving wildlife habitats and maintaining water quality, as well as managing campgrounds, trails, timber inventory and sales, forest health and risk of fire and disease. Depending on level of experience, duties can range from clearing trails to supervising major policy development. Education At the federal level, the focus is on overall land management. At the state level, the primary objectives include wildfire management and Mid-Career Entry: Edge: Salary Range compliance with the Forest Practices Act. At local levels, especially urban forests, key activities relate to recreation and education. $50,000–$71,000

Leslie Weldon Lena Tucker Jo b : Forest Supervisor Jo b : District Forester, South Cascade Unit, Springfield Em p l o y e r : U.S.D.A. Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Bend Em p l o y e r : Oregon Department of Forestry

In her capacity as Forest Supervisor says “Most activities occur in the office Not all people are fortunate enough Unlike some forest sector workers who of a 1.6-million-acre forest, Leslie and around town, interfacing with to see the immediate results of their specialize in wildlife, water quality or Weldon has a wide range of duties. She people.” Still, Leslie spends a good hard work firsthand, as Lena Tucker other areas, field operations foresters is the steward of forested landscapes, bit of time in the forest reviewing does. Working as a mid-level manager are generalists who address a variety including lakes, rivers, streams and conditions and projects. at Oregon Department of Forestry of forestry issues. Lena participates in habitat for threatened and endangered (ODF), Lena provides her district with a number of activities, from valuing species. She attends to cultural “Most activities occur leadership on forest management timber and designing forest roads to resources and rare archeological sites. in the office and around town, policy. This means setting broad goals, developing forest management plans. Leslie also serves the public through specific objectives and measurable She continues to acquire skills in new outreach, recreation, conservation interfacing with people.” areas of forestry, volunteer programs and customer “...Involvement in professional societies and is currently service. She puts her business hat on Leslie’s career path highlights how learning more about for timber sales and infrastructure helps you to stay current with hot issues and important it can be to obtain on- wildfire risk reduction management. And finally, with the high provides an invaluable network of resources that the-ground experience in a variety of programs and wildfire risk of forest fire, she also must remain roles. After spending time in scientific, will help you down the road in your career.” management. knowledgeable and vigilant about fire management and policy positions, prevention and suppression. The work of a technical forest management project. Leslie has an informed “big picture” benchmarks for forest management. generalist makes for varied days. A significant number of days call for No one person can be an expert in view of forest management. A women’s But these are not simply plans on Lena’s typical work week might long-term planning for district staffing Best Part of all of these areas, so a high level leadership development course paper. Lena’s other major responsibility and budgeting, while occasionally Leslie’s Job? management position like Leslie’s sponsored by the Society of American is to implement these policies and plans include activities such as making in the district’s field operations, taking Lena can be found directly involved in I enjoy helping people entails leading and supervising others Foresters helped her realize her presentations on forest or fire forest management from theory to management at meetings with her managing a wildfire! understand and care in implementing programs. Leslie leadership potential and energized her works with District Rangers, Staff to set and achieve higher goals. This led practice. It is highly satisfying to Lena local public constituents. In fact, her about conserving Officers and representatives from the to her current role as a forest supervisor. “to be able to directly implement state job entails quite a lot of pubic speaking natural resources. public. Despite being responsible for and even national policy on sustainable and leadership skills. Internally, she 1.6 million acres of forest land, Leslie natural resource management and see might spend hours working with the results in the field.” staff to design or implement a highly

Leslie Weldon’s Forestry Career Path Mike’s Career Pathway Lena Tucker’s Forestry Career Path - ! Girl Scouts and love of outdoors - Child/teen 4-H and love of the outdoors Fisheries biologist in Washington state Lena’s Advice Leslie’s Surprising Skill 7 College internship in forest management with ODF 7 Job with Youth Conservation Corps in high school and interest in biology Conflict resolution, understanding Get engaged with your school’s forestry 6 3 Assistant Fisheries Program B.S. Forestry, Northern Arizona School of Forestry Manager in Washington, D.C. 6 College summer jobs with others views and ideas, lots of careful club or FFA (Future Farmers of America), " the Forest Service Graduate level courses in wildland recreation management 2 do a job shadow or internship with a Assistant District Ranger and " B.A. Biology, Virginia Tech listening! These are important skills for ! Summer research on wildland recreation near the Grand Canyon District Ranger in Montana me as a leader and manager of people natural resources professional and 3 Field Forester, ODF in Forest Service Liaison to U.S. Army 2 Environmental Center, Aberdeen, Maryland and in helping to resolve complex read all you can about current events in State Forest Management Unit Forester, ODF in Grants Pass + Executive Policy Assistant natural resource issues. natural resource management. Assistant to the Eastern Oregon Area Director, ODF in Prineville in Washington, D.C. Forest Supervisor, X Deschutes National Forest X District Forester, South Cascade District, ODF in Springfield

10 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 11 career track career track Forester, Public Sector (continued) Forest Products Manufacturer

Job Traits Job Description: Uses scientific knowledge of physical, Job Traits chemical and mechanical properties of wood to design wood-based products. Uses sophisticated technology to develop manufacturing Education Mid-Career Education processes. Business and financial duties focus on supply chain, Mid-Career Entry: Edge: Salary Range Entry: Edge: Salary Range $50,000–$71,000 marketing and quality control aspects of manufacturing. $80,000-$125,000

Paul Ries Casey Jackson Jo b : Urban and Community Forestry Program Manager Jo b : New Products Manager and Wood Materials Manager Em p l o y e r : Oregon Department of Forestry, Salem Em p l o y e r : Contact Industries, Prineville

Not all foresters manage large tracts important to their environment as Oregon’s forest sector promotes time. These include details about of forest land. According to Paul Ries, those in a forest,” Paul says. not only healthy forest ecosystems materials, product inventories and “an urban forester can be a crucial but also develops many useful wood financial spreadsheets. A critical task contributor to city planning.” We products. Casey Jackson is part of a is to correctly price future orders to might take trees for granted in the “Trees within urban areas manufacturing team of 550 employees maintain profitability in a market where city, but they are an important part at a millwork facility that designs and raw materials can have volatile prices. can be just as important to their builds custom products using raw of a city’s infrastructure and increase Responding to at least a dozen new lumber purchased from sawmills. the quality of urban life. A city’s trees environment as those in a forest.” product inquiries per week, Casey are in place as a result of choices made Casey’s company sells products all spends many hours combining by civic leaders and citizens alike. over the world, including ornate technical wood engineering know-how Ries spends much of his time writing Urban foresters must balance political, wood molding in a Las Vegas casino, with creativity to design and produce literature and leading classes for technical, financial, aesthetic and architectural wood detail in large new products. He must be quite flexible community education, giving talks educational objectives daily. hotels in the United Kingdom and even working from client requests, which he on urban forestry and consulting on exotic wood panels for private yachts. says “can range from a simple sketch Ries’ enthusiasm for trees in urban issues. He works with the Oregon These products may appear to be on a napkin to a detailed blueprint.” settings is apparent, and he is full Department of Forestry’s regional solid wood, but in most cases they are The rest of his time is spent in the of convincing facts. For example, urban foresters and with city planners, highly engineered products containing manufacturing facility to verify that shoppers in a business district that has park managers and city foresters in his multiple materials. For example, more products will meet expectations of trees will, on average, spend 11 percent role as director of the state’s Urban and people are becoming interested in the customer. Favorite Part Best Part of more money than they would shopping Community Forestry Program. “green” building materials. Casey’s The manufacturing sector produces a of Casey’s Job? Paul’s Job? in an identical area with no trees. A company recently outfitted a building huge range of wood products, many with “cedar,” which was really an ultra- Making the customer happy I feel a sense tree-lined street helps maintain a lower of them everyday useful objects like thin cedar veneer over an aluminum while making a profit for our of accomplishment temperature, attracts business and doors and windows. Regardless of core. Using this type of veneer provides customers to communities, enhances the product, those who work in this company. It’s great to see by making cities better 50 times more finished product than tourism, reduces storm-water runoff sector need wood engineering or other something you helped places to live. solid wood. and provides animal habitat. “Trees technical skills, a strong business sense develop come to fruition. within urban areas can be just as A typical day for Casey has him and a desire to thrive in a demanding analyzing figures about half of the environment.

Paul Ries’s Forestry Career Path Simon’s Career Pathway Casey Jackson’s Forestry Career Path Casey’s Advice - High school job as tree farm worker - Initial college major in Journalism Paul’s Surprising Skill 7 Bohemia Inc. planing mill worker 7 B.S. Natural Resources Get a forest products management Managing the relationship that people 6 degree, but do start out spending Willamette Industries particleboard facility worker 6 Field forester have with the trees around them, which at least some time working in a " B.S. Forest Products Management sometimes can be both emotional " Switched from rural foresty to urban forestry production facility. Having on-the- ! Production Manager, Jeld-Wen Windows and Doors ! and political in nature. Urban forestry City urban forester ground experience running machines means working with people 3 Floor Manager, Contact Industries will give you a real sense of the as much as with trees. New Products Manager and Urban and Community Forestry Program Manager, materials and design challenges. X Wood Materials Manager, X Oregon Department of Forestry Contact Industries

12 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 13 career track Forester, Private Sector

Job Description: Utilizes science to manage the planting and growing of new trees to maximize Job Traits reforestation and harvest objectives. Employs both technical and business skills to inventory standing timber, appraise its worth and negotiate its purchase. Works to conserve wildlife and fish habitat and other Education Mid-Career natural resources on timberlands and determines how to best comply with environmental regulations. Entry: Edge: Salary Range $50,000–$71,000

Eric Geyer Mike Barnes Jo b : Forester Jo b : Private Forestry Consultant Em p l o y e r : Roseburg Forest Products, Roseburg Em p l o y e r : Self-employed, Newberg

Eric Geyer is what is known in the maximizing their growth all the way An independent forestry consultant land trust. “Over the years I’ve seen profession as a field forester—a through harvest is a challenge and an like Mike Barnes often assists small just about everything,” said Barnes. position where many foresters develop art.” Eric also contributes to legislative forest landowners in meeting varied “One of the things I enjoy about this their on-the-ground knowledge of and policy work that promote sound objectives for their land. These smaller work is observing the wide variety of managing forests. As a “silviculturist,” active forest management. He finds landowners rarely have the resources of things landowners value about their he is involved with the care and it highly rewarding that his forestry large timber companies, who generally forestland.” In a given week, Mike cultivation of forest trees employ their own foresters full-time finds himself traveling to very different on roughly 200,000 acres “I spend a significant amount of time in the woods, to manage large-scale forests for wood properties to work with clients around of timberland. production. Mike recommends this the region. A job like Eric’s offers a walking through stands of trees forestry career approach to anyone A self-proclaimed “jack of all trades,” wide range of experiences. or regenerating forests.” who wants to “work as an independent Mike helps his clients with harvest Because work takes place planning and implementation; in the natural environment, activities career “provides renewable products are seasonal and constantly shifting. “One of the things I enjoy reforestation and care of young stands; to society while sustaining important Field foresters have the opportunity to about this work is observing the wide protecting wildlife and aquatic habitat; ecosystem functions.” use a variety of skills such as science, variety of things landowners beautification projects for forestland economics, communication and people Clearly, a strong foundation in value about their forestland.” with and without harvest objectives; management. Add field work and even the general sciences is essential in and even the details of writing managing some forest operations by forestry. However, communication is contracts, hiring contractors, financial business owner in control of your own Mike’s Advice helicopter, and you have a job that is an increasingly important skill. Eric analysis and marketing. work load and income potential.” In high school, focus never dull. Eric notes “seeing the forest notes, “The old image of a forester or by air is never boring.” logger living in forest camps is long The small forest landowners who are on math, life sciences gone. Now, we regularly interact with and English composition. Eric says, “The work I do is a great fit Mike’s clients often have diverse goals co-workers, adjacent landowners and Writing skills are essential. with my varied interests because I deal and objectives, from profitable tree the general public.” with both science and economics every farm, to the City of Astoria’s 4,000- day. Planting the right seedlings and acre municipal watershed, to a private

Eric Geyer’s Forestry Career Path Mike’s Career Pathway Mike Barnes’ Forestry Career Path - Summer jobs with timber industry during college ! B.S. biology (pre-med) and geology - High school math and science 7 Eric’s Advice B.S. Forest Management, Oregon State University 7 Small business owner Mike’s Surprising Skill 6 Pilot Major, U.S. Air Force 3 Forest Service firefighter in Idaho Visit with professional foresters and I have learned a lot about Russian " Business owner, flight instructor 6 College summer hospital internships spend a summer or a vacation doing customs because I use an all Russian 2 M.S. Forest Management, forestry-related activities such as ! Forester, Oregon Department of Forestry Oregon State University " Reading forestry and outdoor publications crew on a variety of tasks such as firefighting, logging, timber cruising or 3 Assistant Director, World Forestry Center, Portland tree planting and thinning. Logging crew choker setter seedling inventory surveys. + Forester Private Forestry Consultant X Forester, Roseburg Forest Products X President, Oregon Small Woodlands Association

14 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 15 career track Forest Products Professor

Job Description: Educates the next generation of forest products professionals. Conducts Job Traits research on the nature and use of forest products and wood processing technologies. Contributes research findings that inform and enhance the efficient use of natural resources and help Oregon’s forest sector Education Mid-Career remain globally competitive. Entry: Edge: Salary Range $44,000-$85,000

Jim Funck Kaichang Li Jo b : Associate Professor, Process Improvement Specialist Jo b : Associate Professor, Wood Chemist Em p l o y e r : Oregon State University, Corvallis Em p l o y e r : Oregon State University, Corvallis

Growing up in forested southeastern can be quite dynamic. “As much as the For Kaichang Li, it all started with it to another,” said Kaichang. “I was Iowa, Jim Funck thought he would technology has changed over the past an expedition to the coast with a lucky to have studied in such widely become a field forester, but after decades, we’re continually working on friend. With his usual curiosity, varied fields and to have been able to starting his college coursework, he new ideas to improve the process.” Jim’s Kaichang noticed the extraordinary recognize the possibilities when I saw found his wood products minor more current research focuses on continuous strength with which mussels clung them.” Currently, he spends about 80 intriguing. Rather than seeking a process improvement. An example to rocks. Having earned degrees in percent of his time in his lab at Oregon career in a mill, he felt his place was in of this is computerized scanning to both wood chemistry and organic State University, developing novel pure academic research, and pursued optimize the processing of logs. For synthesis, he had the ideal background research ideas, writing grant proposals advanced degrees. Jim felt that he could instance, he is working on a lumber for recognizing the potential of this and advising graduate students and best contribute to the science of mill adhesive—nothing commercially research assistants in his research technology in a university setting. “...we’re continually working on new available possessed such staying power group. Kaichang’s ultimate goal for his in such wet conditions. work is to “develop environmentally A college professor often has a dual ideas to improve the process.” friendly products to improve the role that encompasses both teaching After years of extensive research competitiveness of Oregon forest and research. Jim is highly self- on the proteins these mussels grading system where cameras scan products companies.” directed in both areas. His daily tasks excrete, Kaichang discovered how to and analyze a board for defects and consist of preparing student labs and manufacture a similar protein made irregularities such as knots in order class lectures. He also devotes time from soybeans that may revolutionize to help classify it before processing. to helping students with coursework the way many types of processed Best Part of or finding employment. When not Jim says “I love the science of wood wood products are manufactured. “So many discoveries start Jim’s Job? with students, Jim immerses himself processing.” Although a researcher at His adhesive is currently used as a in his lab to conduct and analyze heart, he also likes his work because replacement for urea-formaldehyde with taking an idea from one place and applying Working with students experiments. A big part of his work also it contributes to the efficient use of resins in plywood. it to another. I was lucky to have studied in such widely and getting out into forest involves writing papers for publication natural resources and it helps the “So many discoveries start with taking varied fields and to have been able to recognize the products mills. and proposals for funding his research. Oregon wood products industry an idea from one place and applying possibilities when I saw them.” remain competitive. The work of a researcher is steady and disciplined, day by day. But over time, it

Jim Funck’s Forestry Career Path Kaichang Li’s Forestry Career Path

- B.S. Applied Chemistry - Boy Scouts and love of outdoors Kaichang’s ! Graduate research assistant, wood science and forest products 7 Graduate research assistant 7 Summer jobs in the woods Surprising Skill 6 Research projects in college Jim’s Surprising Skill Two important skills for a researcher: 3 Ph.D. Wood Chemistry 6 M.S. Organic Synthesis

" B.S. Forestry/Forest Products I can tear a computer apart and using online search engines to comb 2 " 2 Assistant research biochemist, Research associate/instructor Ph.D. Wood Science biochemistry and molecular biology ! put it back together again. the scientific literature, and obtaining Quality Control Technician, Assistant Professor Weyerhaeuser Co. Graduate faculty, molecular outside funding so that people working and cellular biology 3 M.S. Wood Science with me will get paid. + Assistant professor, wood products X Associate Professor, Oregon State University X Associate Professor, Oregon State University

16 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 17 career track career track Forest Hydrologist High School Science Teacher

Job Description: Researches the distribution, circulation Job Traits Job Description: Inspires, instructs and evaluates Job Traits and physical properties of surface and underground waters in forest students. Uses a variety of presentation techniques, written watersheds. Studies the form and intensity of precipitation, its rate Education materials, laboratory exercises and field experiences to facilitate Education of infiltration into the soil, movement through the earth and its return Mid-Career learning. May teach a range of subjects such as science, natural Mid-Career Entry: Edge: Salary Range Entry: Edge: Salary Range to the ocean and atmosphere. $57,000–$85,000 history or applied sciences like forestry and natural resources. $39,000–$56,000

Liz Dent Simon Babcock Jo b : Riparian and Aquatic Specialist Jo b : High School Science, Forestry and Natural Resources Teacher Em p l o y e r : Oregon Department of Forestry, Salem Em p l o y e r : Philomath High School, Philomath

Forest hydrologists work for many At one point, Liz took a leave of absence Simon Babcock’s classroom is the wild also performs a number of less types of employers in Oregon, both from her research and monitoring and diverse natural world. Spending noticeable activities behind the scenes, public and private. Hydrologists duties at ODF to help formulate the most of his time off-site from the such as attending to administrative most often work in the field, helping Oregon Watershed Enhancement Philomath High School campus, requirements for student performance, foresters meet environmental Board’s set of indicators for aquatic Simon introduces students to forests, setting up equipment and supplies and regulations when they are planning environments. Never too far from water, wetlands, streams and other outdoor even driving the bus to field sites. river crossings or designing harvest when not studying water resources, Liz learning environments. Students Coordinating all these logistics and plans near sensitive streams and is out rafting rivers with friends. implement hands-on projects that people means that things can change wetlands. With experience, a represent a sampling of the forestry at a moment’s notice. Simon notes hydrologist might advance to working field, ranging from habitat surveys to that “flexibility and communication in the policy arena, where they would restoration work, employing a range “Watershed issues change skills are essential to make things focus on policies to improve water of forestry skills and techniques. run smoothly.” Teaching demands an quality on a state-wide or regional scale. over time, but at the core are the quantity and quality of our water…” Working with and inspiring students unwavering commitment to learning Working for the Oregon Department to be curious about the natural world and student excellence, and is a great of Forestry (ODF), Liz Dent uses is Simon’s favorite part of the job. But fit for people who are highly motivated, scientific evidence such as data from he also enjoys improving his lessons by self-directed and energized by working “Watershed issues change over time,” field monitoring of rivers, streams and staying current with new information with young people. Liz said, “but at the core are the lakes, to inform strategies that protect, and scientific advances in natural quantity and quality of our water, maintain or restore riparian and resources and forest management, riparian structure and function, and Unusual Part aquatic elements in a forest ecosystem. noting “there are always new things to aquatic habitat and the fish that “there are always of Liz’s Job? Liz finds herself working in a number learn about the forestry field.” depend on it. Solving problems related of settings: writing and analyzing Seeing otters and beavers to these issues is what makes my job While teaching is the heart of his new things to learn data on a computer, conferring with at the “office.” so fulfilling.” workload, Simon, like most teachers, colleagues and making observations in about the forestry field.” the field.

Liz Dent’s Forestry Career Path Simon’s Career Pathway Simon Babcock’s Forestry Career Path Liz’s Advice - B.S. Geography, Humboldt State University, - High school farm work Arcata, CA If you decide to get into 7 Fertilizer plant laborer forest hydrology, get a well-rounded 7 M.S. Forest Hydrology, Oregon State University 6 Wildlife technician X High School Forestry and Natural Resources 6 Forest firefighter education including some biological Simon’s Surprising Skill Teacher, Philomath High School

science courses such as fisheries, It’s not every high school teacher who M.A.T. and teaching credentials " B.S. Wildlife Science " Hydrologic technician aquatic ecology and wetland plants. covers chainsaw safety! Consider courses on riparian forest 2 Technician, Olympia Wildlife ! Outdoor school teacher Research Station management and look for real-life Forest Hydrologist, Oregon Department of Forestry 3 Logger X experiences with stream restoration.

18 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 19 career track career track Logging Operations Manager Forest Investor

Job Description: Plans and supervises on-the-ground Job Traits Job Description: Acquires and manages working forests, Job Traits forest operations, including methods of harvest, equipment use and appraises properties, develops and implements sustainable the activities of employee crews. Identifies buyers and negotiates management plans, oversees land use policy, ensures environmental Education Mid-Career Education Salary Range contracts for timber sales. Manages business and fiscal functions compliance, develops business strategies and provides executive Varies widely, depending Entry: Edge: Salary Range Entry: Edge: to complete projects. leadership of organization and operations. on size and health $33,000–$53,000 of organization

Scott Melcher Matthew Donegan Jo b : Business and Operations Manager Jo b : Co-President Em p l o y e r : Four-M-Fiber, Inc., Sweet Home Em p l o y e r : Forest Capital Partners, Portland/Boston

Scott Melcher’s father, Mike, was forest managers, and is being used Matt Donegan represents a new type “I always loved the outdoors and have a something of a pioneer in new ever more frequently. Keeping up of forestry professional. Not only is he strong interest in conservation,” Matt thinning techniques in the Northwest. with technical advances is just one a practicing professional forester, but a said. He recommends that students In the 1980s, after seeing a video of area that Scott focuses on in order to seasoned investment manager. Matt’s “first gain field experience early and Scandinavian machinery that thinned keep his business strong, competitive company, Forest Capital Partners, often while in school – summer, a forest without significantly damaging and in compliance with changing is a private landowner that acquires part-time and lab work. Real world the remaining trees, Scott’s father was regulations. As a business manager, he and manages sustainable working experience brings academic lessons determined to bring this technique to has overall responsibility for managing forests across North America. Among to life and makes them stick.” While the state. After adapting the equipment people, finances and day to day the company’s 2.1 million acres of in college Matt was drawn to the to Oregon’s forests, Four-M-Fiber operations. Scott is equally proficient forestland are 600,000 acres in Oregon. economics of forestry. “I became became the first to start using a in supervising demanding harvest fascinated by the impact of economics method called cut-to-length, where a operations in the field and cultivating “Patience is critical underlying land use and forestry harvester/processor fells a tree, strips future clients with financial estimates practices.” its limbs off and cuts it to mill length and proposals. to timing timber sales. We work hard Matt’s job takes him all over on the spot. This causes less ground to find investors with long-term interests.” Scott’s career path shows how the country overseeing his disturbance in terms of compaction of Scott Melcher and his father Mike important it can be to build specific company’s land holdings, while soil, erosion and sedimentation. skills through a variety of both on- Matt and his partner formed the also reviewing prospective investments “This was a huge advancement the-ground, real life experience and company as a “pure landowner” and meeting with employees, Best Part of technologically,” said Scott. This educational training. The result in enterprise, with no investment in business partners, conservation Matthew’s Job? Scott’s Advice light-footprint logging method has Scott’s case has been a rewarding mills or manufacturing. Management groups and public officials. Matt also Finding common ground Pursue any opportunity to drawn approval from environmental management role. decisions focus on long-term values spends significant time studying between financial and get experience, from splitting groups as well as interest from federal of the forest that extend beyond short- emerging trends, staying abreast of conservation objectives. term profits. Company forestland is market movements, environmental firewood to working with a third-party certified for sustainability, policy, new technologies and other forest engineering crew. and employees are rewarded for good developments. “This is a very dynamic change and provides a good balance of stewardship as well as financial time in the forest sector. My position interpersonal interaction, office time performance. places me in the middle of a lot of and field work.”

Scott Melcher’s Forestry Career Path Matthew Donegan’s Forestry Career Path

- High school fire trail builder - Elementary school Boy Scouts, Matthew’s Advice love of the outdoors 6 Forestry engineering Scott’s Surprising Skill crew member 7 Choker setter, skidder operator Build relationships. There is a great 6 7 High school growing interest in forest conservation Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot B.S. Forestry deal of interdependence in companies, " Internships in forestry field work " B.S. Business Administration mechanical failures that occur industries and communities. Working ! M.B.A. Forest Industries frequently with the type Management and Finance ! Forwarder and harvester operator with people is critical to success, and of machinery used 3 Analyst, Georgia-Pacific Forest Resources Division, Atlanta ultimately builds the most satisfying 3 Operations manager/equipment operator in this business. memories over a career. 2 Portfolio Officer, Hancock Timber Resources Group, Boston Business and Operations Manager, X Four-M-Fiber, Inc. X Co-President, Forest Capital Partners, Portland

20 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 21 Linking Education to Your Career

The list below highlights selected examples of forest sector positions currently held by graduates Acknowledgements: from various degree programs offered by Oregon community colleges and universities. The Oregon Forest Resources Institute is grateful to the following experts for their assistance in the preparation of Associate of Science Degree Wood Science and Technology Ski Area Manager this report: Ara Andrea, Chemeketa Community College; (Mt. Hood or Central Oregon Environmental Health and Tourism Development Specialist Dave Zahler, George Swanson, Dave Stemper and Loren Community College) Safety Manager Kellogg, Oregon State University; Dick Powell, Starker Wildland Law Enforcement Officer Forests; Lori LaMarche, North Santiam School District; Forest or Natural Resource Technician International Marketing Manager Simon Babcock , Philomath School District; Rex Storm, Forest Engineering Technician/Aide Mill Manager Natural Resources Associated Oregon Loggers; and Lynn Wilson-Dean. Plant Engineer Computer Mapping Data Entry Environmental Consultant Special thanks to all the profile subjects for their Technician Product Development Specialist Environmental Lobbyist or Lawyer cooperation and generosity: Simon Babcock, Mike Barnes, Outdoor Recreation Leadership Project Engineer Extension Agent Jennifer Beathe, Liz Dent, Matt Donegan, Jim Funck, Eric Quality Control Technician Forest/Rangeland/Fire Ecologist Geyer, Casey Jackson, Kaichang Li, Scott Melcher, Paul Ries, Restoration Projects Technician Mike Rochelle, Lena Tucker, Leslie Weldon and Clyde Zeller. Vice President, Research and Forest Research Scientist Reforestation Technician Development Land Use Planning/GIS Thanks also to Michael and Josh Feinstein for their earlier work capturing these professionals’ stories through text Public Affairs/Information Officer Bachelor of Science Degree Forest Engineering and photos. This publication includes material adapted Urban/Wildland Forester or Naturalist (OSU College of Forestry) Forest Engineer from OFRI publications entitled: “Oregon’s Forestry Professionals: Evolution and Growth of the Forestry Forest Management Forest Hydrologist Master of Science Degree, Master Profession in Oregon,” and “Oregon Forestry in the Environmental Educator Forest Operations Manager 21st Century.” of Forestry Degree or Doctorate Forestry Extension Agent Forest Transportation Planner Fire Ecologist Forest Ecologist Land Use Manager Forest Ecologist Fire Management Officer Logging Engineer Forest Economist Forest Economist Surveyor Timber Harvest Contractor Forest Pest Management Specialist Forest Land Appraiser Forest Scientist Forest Manager Forest Recreation Resources Forest Statistician Forest Policy Analyst Backcountry Guide Landscape Ecologist Logging Operations Manager Cultural Resource Manager Surveyor Naturalist Ecotourism Specialist Teacher Remote Sensing/GIS Specialist Environmental Educator Tree Geneticist Research Scientist Environmental Interpreter University Professor Urban Naturalist or Forester Naturalist Wood Chemist Wildlife Habitat Specialist Park Manager Wood Products Development Specialist For more information on forest sector careers visit www.oregonforests.org or www.safnet.org

Does YOUR future include a career in forestry?

Forest Consultant Logging Operations X High School X Manager X Forester X Wood Chemist X Forest Hydrologist X Forest Ranger

Forestland Manager X Wildlife Biologist X

22 . Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector I oregon forest resources institute oregon forest resources institute | Careers in Oregon’s Forest Sector . 23 Oregon Forest Resources Institute

317 SW Sixth Avenue, Suite 400 Written and Produced by: David Heil & Associates, Inc. Portland, OR 97204 Portland, Oregon (971) 673-2944 Design: Amy Farrell Graphic Design 1-800-719-9195 Photography: Career portraits by Michael www.oregonforests.org and Josh Feinstein. Robert N. Dennis Collection Leslie Lehmann, Executive Director of Stereoscopic Views, Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Dave Kvamme, Director of Communications Art, Prints and Photographs, Norie Dimeo-Ediger, K-12 Program Manager The New York Public Library, Astor, Lenox and Tilden Julie Woodward, Rediscovery Forest Education Specialist Foundations (logging image, page 2), Randy Richards (longhouse photo, page 3), Michael Feinstein (Hinckle Creek photo, page 4)

© Copyright 2007, Oregon Forest Resources Institute. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without C Printed with soy-based ink on recycled paper. the written permission of the Oregon Forest Resources Institute.