Becoming a Forest and Wildlife Conservation Technician in New Hampshire

Forest and conservation technicians enjoy working outdoors in a variety of jobs in both the public and private sectors. A person who enjoys spending time in nature, and has a strong ability in math and science, might find a career in this field very rewarding.

Forest and conservation technicians work under foresters and scientists, and assist in various activities that uphold the integrity of forests and related environmental ecosystems. Tasks performed might include mapping and patrolling forested and other natural areas, issuing permits, collecting data, performing experiments, providing education for the public and industrial sectors, preventing and suppressing forest fires, industry-specific consulting, planting seedlings and reforesting, observing and testing watersheds and enforcing environmental laws and regulations.

New Hampshire Requirements for Forest and Conservation Technicians

All forest and conservation technicians must have completed an Associate in Applied Science degree in forestry or other environmental program at minimum. For those wishing to further their career, an advanced degree might be pursued at a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate level. It is also possible to pursue professional licensing as a forester through New Hampshire’s Board of Foresters or apply to become a certified forester through the Society of American Foresters (SAF). The SAF requires a baccalaureate degree at minimum for all certified foresters.

Universities with Programs for Forest and Conservation Technicians in New Hampshire

Several universities in New Hampshire offer training programs for those interested in forest and conservation technology.

• Great Bay Community College in Portsmouth/Rochester offers an associate’s degree in Environmental Studies. Students will obtain an education in environmental studies along with foundational courses in liberal arts. The intention of the program is to give students the background they need to transfer to a four-year institution and complete a bachelor’s degree. It is suitable for a broad range of student interests related to environmental studies.
• University of New Hampshire’s College of Life Science and Agriculture in Durham offers a Bachelor of Science in Forestry and is accredited by the Society of American Foresters. Students attending the program will focus on sustaining healthy forests, which support productivity, health and biodiversity. Graduates will be prepared to answer today’s major environmental challenges, including climate change, sustainable development, resource management and protection of biodiversity in ecosystems. Its location in the second-most forested state in the U.S. allows for a hands-on approach to learning through extensive fieldwork.
• Antioch University in Keene offers advanced degrees in environmental studies for those wishing to pursue higher levels of education. Antioch boasts small class sizes, interactive teaching and rich opportunities for field study. Programs are designed to combine environmental studies with other areas of interest, allowing graduates to become leaders in effective environmental change for a sustainable future.

Salary and Job Projections for Forest and Conservation Technicians in New Hampshire

2018 data show the average hourly salary for forest and conservation technicians as $14.34, with an average annual wage of $39,130.

In 2106, New Hampshire employed 90 forest and conservation technicians, with an estimated growth to 100 positions by the year 2026, a growth rate of 11.1 percent. This compares favorably with a national projected growth rate for this field of 3.9 percent.

Employment Opportunities for Forest and Conservation Technicians in New Hampshire

Forest and conservation technicians within New Hampshire are employed in a myriad of industries and conservation organizations both in the private and public sectors. Some possible employers are New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, State of New Hampshire Department of Economic Development, Student Conservation Association, Stoney Ridge Environmental, University System of New Hampshire and New Hampshire State Parks.