lare Conservation District is seeking a Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) Forester to cover Clare and Gladwin Counties. The position requires a minimum of a Bachelor's or Master's degree in forestry from a Society of American Foresters accredited college or university. This is a state grant-funded position, renewed annually. The salary ($40,000-$45,000) will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience and education.
This position is not intended to compete with the private sector, and does not complete tasks that could otherwise be completed in the private sector.
The Michigan Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) provides private forestland owners with technical assistance and information regarding forestry, wildlife habitat, and related natural resource concerns, so that they may make informed decisions about the use and management of their forestlands. (“Landowners” include non-industrial private forestland owners, schools, local units of government, rural, and urban residents.) The Forester position is primarily a field position.
Activities include:
• Serves as initial point of contact for non-industrial private forestland owners, local governments, etc., for forest management, wildlife habitat, other natural resource issues or concerns.
• Fulfills grant agreement requirements and deliverables.
• Provides on-site land examination and resource evaluation.
• Provides options regarding forest management.
• Provides options regarding wildlife habitat management.
• Compiles and submit quarterly reporting forms to MDARD, including required information.
• Prepares written follow-ups that may include appropriate handouts/materials, after visiting with landowners on-site or in the office, as appropriate.
• Provides advice on tree planting/reforestation for timber production, windbreaks, wildlife habitat.
• Provides diagnosis and advice on the control of insects, disease, and wildlife pests for individual trees and woodlands.
• Provides information and makes referrals regarding programs, agencies, organizations, and private sector interests that furnish technical and/or financial assistance for natural resource management activities.
• Maintains a good working relationship with other forestry assistance providers, both public and private.
• Provides technical input regarding species selection for the Conservation District’s annual tree, shrub, and plant sales. (Native species that are useful for reforestation, wildlife habitat, soil erosion control, etc.)
• Provides advice on the control of sedimentation resulting from forest management activities.
• Conducts demonstrations and workshops.
• Prepares correspondence, reports, news articles, newsletters, etc.
• Assists with preparation of the program documentation, including, but not limited to, annual grant application, Natural Resource Plan of Work, etc.
• Prepares regular, written reports to Conservation District boards (monthly).
• Pursues the designation of Certified Forester with Society of American Foresters (SAF).
A performance evaluation will be conducted annually. Training and continuing education opportunities will be provided.