In fact, in the Spring of 1993, a Society of American Foresters task force recommended adopting an ecosystem approach to sustaining long term productivity and forest health for all forest values. Forests are not only in the country, they are also found in our suburbs and cities. The field of forestry includes the study and administration of all the elements of the forest ecosystem, including people. Foresters are environmental scientists who are committed to getting the greatest good from our forests for the largest number of people. Foresters are employed by the U.S. Forest Service, State and other government entities, timberland companies and wood products industries.
Many foresters are self-employed.
Duties include protecting the forest from fire, insects and disease, planning and overseeing recreation, planning and supervising timber sales from harvested areas, and, when necessary, dealing with citizens and politicians. Urban Foresters - City dwellers need trees for both practical and aesthetic reasons. The management of trees in this unique forest environment presents a different set of problems for Foresters. Urban foresters may work for municipalities in planning departments, parks departments or elsewhere in city government. Resource Recreation Management - Foresters in this field manage wooded lands to meet the needs of increasing numbers of outdoor enthusiasts seeking the peace and quiet of natural areas.