How to Become a Forest and Wildlife Conservation Worker in Montana

If you enjoy hiking, camping and hunting outdoors in Montana, you should consider becoming a forest conservation worker. Conservation workers do various physical tasks to help protect and preserve wild habitats across the state. You may be asked to repair trails, remove vegetation or dead and diseased trees, and generally help protect the natural resources of the state for future generations.

Montana has the third-highest concentration of forest conservation workers in the country, so these positions are in demand. As a conservation worker, you get to enjoy your time outdoors and help keep the woods of Montana healthy and productive. There is definitely room for advancement when you work in forest conservation.

Requirements for Forest Conservation Workers in Montana

Forest conservation workers are eligible for employment if they are 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or GED. Some positions may require a valid driver’s license as well. Since you’ll be working outdoors in all conditions and sometimes have to walk long distances, forest conservation workers need to have a great deal of physical strength and stamina.

Educational Programs in Montana

While there are no formal education requirements for forest conservation workers, many find it easier to secure and advance their employment by taking a course in forestry, conservation or natural resources.

Some programs in Montana you may consider include:

• Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC). Located in the city of Kalispell, FVCC offers an associate’s degree in forestry. Their hands-on program will prepare you for entry-level work in forestry, conservation and resources management. The focus of the forestry program is on interactions with practicing professionals and utilizes advanced technology such as GPS. Upon graduation, you will be ready for employment, or you may opt to enter a four-year degree program and pursue a higher degree.
• Montana University System. Twelve universities across the state offer two-year degrees in various fields of study for Montana residents. Some options for forest conservation workers include studying ecology, environmental engineering, geology or fire management. You will be able to earn an associate’s degree in your field of choice and then begin as an entry-level worker. You may also have the option to transfer your credits to a four-year program if you decide to pursue your bachelor’s degree.

Career Outlook and Salary Expectations

According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, there were 90 forest conservation workers in Montana in 2016, and the field is expected to remain steady. Montana has approximately 20 openings a year for conservation workers.

Forest conservation workers in Montana make an average of $14.46 per hour, or about $30,080 annually. This is a bit below the national average but is higher than forest conservation workers in states like California or West Virginia.

Employment as a Forest Conservation Worker in Montana

Many forest conservation workers in Montana work for their local governments, or for a federal agency such as the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the Forest Service (FS). As a forest conservation employee, you may work with a non-profit or private organization as well. Montana is a good place for forest conservation workers, as there is a large proportion of public and private wilderness to manage.