Cattle grazing, one of the most destructive practices, is now managed and controlled by villagers. James Billings, Community Forester, Nepal. The majority of requests are in community or social forestry, usually related to re-afforestation of denuded areas. Other placements involve the sustainable management of remaining natural forests. In this work, sensitivity to the culture and needs of the community is important to ensure that long-term sustainable projects are set up.
Placements also offer an opportunity to be involved in significant change.
We also receive requests for forestry lecturers with a focus on social forestry. Often, these positions are combined with running the school farm. However, many general agriculturists are sent out as agricultural teachers after completing an intensive teaching skills course. Typical duties may involve data collection of flora and fauna in a national park, preparation of interpretation material for visitors' centres, or environmental education for visiting groups. My experience as a volunteer has helped me in many ways, both professionally and personally.