Becoming a Forest and Wildlife Conservation Technician in Georgia

Forest and conservation technicians are able to utilize knowledge of math and science and an appreciation for the environment to help protect natural resources and habitats. They are employed in many industries, both public and private, throughout the state. Their primary objective is to assist scientists and foresters in environmental work. Potentially, a forest and conservation technician might be involved in any of the following activities:preventing and suppressing forest fires, surveying and mapping natural habitats, issuing permits, patrolling and enforcing regulations, training both industries and the public on environmental initiatives and plating seedlings and otherwise assisting in reforestation efforts.

Forest and Conservation Technician Regulations in Georgia

Forest and conservation technicians must have, at minimum, an Associate in Applied Science degree. The State of Georgia does not require licensing for forest and conservation technicians; however, for those wishing to further their education and work as a forester, licensing is required and is regulated by the Georgia Board of Foresters. Licensees must pass an examination issued by the Society of American Foresters (SAF). SAF also offers a Certified Forester designation for those with a baccalaureate level education or higher.

Colleges Offering Forest and Conservation Technician Programs in Georgia

Degree programs in Georgia are available for those wishing to pursue associate’s level education, as well as those wishing to further their education to a higher level. Some possible programs within the state include but aren’t limited to:

• Andrew College in Cuthbert offers an Associate of Science degree in Forestry. Due to its location in the timber-producing region of Georgia, Alabama and Florida, the program specializes in giving students a solid background in commercial forestry. Students will, however, receive a well-rounded education in all aspects of forest resources management and will have the option to enter the workforce or pursue continuing education after graduation. All students will participate in supervised internships within their chosen field, allowing for the real-world application of skills and hands-on learning.
• Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Management with a track in Forestry. With easy access to sprawling woodlands, the program allows students to experience the hands-on learning needed to prepare for the management of forest resources and forest-based businesses. The program is currently a candidate for accreditation by the Society of American Foresters.
• University of Georgia In Athens offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Resource Science. The program builds on a strong foundation of basic and applied sciences and offers students the practical knowledge needed to develop problem-solving skills for career opportunities in environmental research, consulting, government, environmental horticulture production and management. Hands-on learning is provided through research opportunities, classroom labs and field experiences.

Job Growth Projections and Salaries in Georgia

Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data from 2018 show the average hourly rate for forest and conservation technicians in Georgia at $22.06 and the average yearly wage at $45,880.

In 2016, 270 forest and conservation technicians were employed in Georgia, with a projected 300 employed by 2026, for a projected growth rate of 11.1 percent. This compares favorably to a national projected growth rate of 3.9 percent.

Georgia Employment Opportunities for Forest and Conservation Technicians

Forest and conservation technicians work in a variety of both public and private industries, including parks and recreation departments, logging and timber companies, research departments and colleges.

Potential employers in the state of Georgia for forest and conservation technicians include Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Cingo, U.S. Department of the Army, Georgia Recreation and Park Association and Rodale institute.