Becoming a Forest and Wildlife Conservation Technician in Kentucky

If you’re fascinated with conservation of natural resources such as forests, soil and water, consider a career as a forest and conservation technician in Kentucky. In this role, under the supervision of foresters, you’ll compile data and provide technical assistance on the characteristics and conditions of woodlands. You may also lead or train forest and conservation workers on the care, improvement and protection of wildlife habitats and forests.

You may be involved in resolving issues related to soil conservation in order to help rangers or farmers learn how to deal with problems caused by overuse or soil erosion. You may test and analyze soil or collect data regarding forest conditions, and you may work with scientists to protect rangelands or forests. Some other titles you might have include county ranger, forestry technician, timber appraiser, resource manager, conservationist or resource technician.

What’s Required to Become a Forest or Conservation Technician in Kentucky?

The first thing you’ll need in order to become a forest or conservation technician in Kentucky is a high school diploma or GED. A minimum of an associate’s degree is usually required to be considered for opportunities as a forest or conservation technician. Obtaining an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in forestry gives you the best opportunity for beginning a career in this field.

In a forestry degree program, coursework will begin with foundational courses such as biology, ecology, geology or chemistry. Other subjects you may study include wildlife management, forest management technology, urban forestry, insect control and fire management.

Forestry Degree Programs in Kentucky

Completing a degree in forestry can give you the knowledge you need to begin a career as a forest and conservation technician. Some Kentucky schools that offer formal training in forestry include:

• University of Kentucky. Located in Lexington, the University of Kentucky offers a bachelor’s degree in forestry, which is accredited by the Society of American Foresters. This university also offers a minor in wildlife biology and management.
• Eastern Kentucky University. A Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management is offered by this this University located in Richmond, KY. This program prepares you to conserve nature and preserve habitats for wildlife. Internships are available working with conservation agencies.

Expected Salary and Job Outlook for Kentucky Forest and Conservation Technicians

According to CareerOnestop, projected employment opportunities for forest and conservation technicians is expected to grow fairly slowly, at a rate of approximately 4 percent between 2016 and 2026. In Kentucky, growth in this occupation may happen a bit more slowly and is expected to be around 2 percent during this same timeframe.

The median annual salary of forest and conservation technicians in Kentucky in 2018 was $36,430, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The same year, the hourly mean was $18.09 per hour.

What to Expect When Working as a Forest and Conservation Technician in Kentucky

Job opportunities in this field can be very competitive in Kentucky. The more education you have in the field of forestry, the more attractive you may be to potential employers. Your formal training will help you with the theory needed to do research or to improve processes and procedures in any forestry environment.

Opportunities in this field often involve working for state, federal or local governments. You may work in remote areas, or in urban areas focusing on urban forestry. In most settings, you’ll work closely with scientists and foresters. You’ll need to have good physical stamina and a willingness to work outdoors in all kinds of weather, but if you’re passionate about conservation and forestry, you’ll be very comfortable in this environment.