Associates in Forestry Options

I'm exploring my options for an associate's degree in forestry. What are some reputable community colleges or trade schools offering this degree, and what job opportunities can I expect upon graduation?

There are several reputable community colleges and trade schools that offer Associate degrees in Forestry. Some popular options include:

1. Central Oregon Community College (COCC) in Bend, OR

2. Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) in Canandaigua, NY

3. Paul Smith's College in Paul Smiths, NY

4. Haywood Community College in Clyde, NC

5. Northern Michigan University in Marquette, MI

Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list. You can find additional programs by searching for "associates in forestry" on search engines, or doing research directly on the websites of the community colleges in your area.

Upon earning an Associate's degree in Forestry, you can expect various job opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Some of these positions include:

1. Forest Technician: Assisting in forest inventory, data collection, and habitat management.

2. Conservation Officer: Enforcing regulations to protect natural resources and wildlife.

3. Park Ranger: Managing and maintaining state and national parks and assisting visitors.

4. Silviculture Technician: Working on tree planting, timber stand improvement, and vegetation management.

5. Wildlife Technician: Assisting with wildlife habitat enhancement and survey projects.

Many forestry professionals work for government organizations such as the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and the National Park Service. Additionally, private companies in logging, forest product manufacturing, and environmental consulting also employ forestry specialists.

It's worth mentioning that after completing your associate's degree, you might consider pursuing a bachelor's degree in forestry, natural resources, or a related field. Doing so could open up further career advancement opportunities and allow you to specialize in specific areas within forestry, such as forest management or forest ecology, as well as increase your earning potential. Best of luck with your forestry studies!