Certification
Certified Forester
Society of American Foresters
Median earnings
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Cost
$280
Duration
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Completion
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SAF certification is the gold standard for forest management professionals, recognized by the forest industry, government officials, and landowners.
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Skills taught
Conduct forest resource assessments by reviewing existing maps, biological data, soils, site quality, and rare species information to characterize forest conditionsIdentify property boundaries using GPS, GIS, land surveying concepts, legal records, and map reading to determine the scope of the management areaDesign field data collection methods using forest inventory, statistical methodology, remote sensing, and stand delineation techniquesImplement field data collection procedures applying dendrology, mensuration, site quality assessment, invasive species identification, and geospatial technologiesAnalyze field data to assess forest conditions including stand dynamics, growth and yield modeling, forest health, and ecological interactionsIdentify and engage stakeholders using culturally appropriate communication methods to incorporate landowner and collaborator input into management planningCommunicate science-based forest management principles, policies, and silvicultural practices to promote long-term forest resource conservationPractice professional forestry in accordance with SAF Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional PracticeDevelop management goals and objectives based on landowner values and forest ecology to establish priorities and direction for the management planDescribe existing forest resource conditions using assessment data covering timber, wildlife, hydrology, soils, roads, and rare speciesDevelop management options integrating silvicultural principles, wildlife considerations, non-timber forest products, and recreational useEvaluate management options based on economic, legal, and social considerations including regulations, taxation, forest certification, and conflicting resource constraintsPrescribe operational methods and silvicultural treatments to achieve management objectives in compliance with best management practices and environmental lawEstablish monitoring and adjustment strategies using key indicators, measurement techniques, and regulatory compliance to mitigate conflicts and track progressUpdate and adapt management plans in response to changes in environmental, social, economic, and landowner conditionsImplement management plans in compliance with OSHA standards, fire management requirements, silvicultural prescriptions, and forest operations practicesDevelop budgets and schedules by estimating costs and revenues associated with prescribed forest management activitiesPrepare and administer contracts and work plans including scope of services, contract specifications, liability requirements, and contractor accountability