The Reforestation and Lumber Business

The lumber industry, and therefore the reforestation industry, are big business and require business minds to manage them.

Business or resource policy analysts are critical to developing the plans to harvest and reforest their assets and maximize profits.

A resource analyst is responsible for determining the value of forested areas and the natural resources in and on them. The analyst determines the worth of forest lands based on research comparing a range of scenarios and market conditions.

The position generally requires a bachelor’s degree, but disciplines such as business or economics are acceptable as opposed to the usual forestry-related programs required for more typical forestry careers.

For those without the forestry degree, experience in forestry or other natural resources related positions will go a long way towards landing a job. With today’s environmental regulations and policies, hiring companies look for specific experience in areas such as mitigations or carbon credits and trading.

A good resource analyst will have the skills necessary to form and maintain a positive working relationship with many clients.

Salaries and benefits are comparable to similar business roles in other industries.

A resource specialist is involved in all financial aspects of timber sale for private companies and government entities, from basic cost accounting to tracking and managing contract bids. The resource specialist must be able to review all manners of sale contracts and financial reports and provide reviews on their accuracy.

A beginning full-time position salary can reach nearly $60,000 for government jobs, with higher earning potential in the private sector or for those with more experience than normal.

A bachelor’s degree in a business-related field is typical for this position, although other education and experience may be combined in the right opportunity.

At its most basic level, an inventory specialist ensures a company’s holdings are accurate. This specialist will be part of resource inventory projects and accurately refer findings to the business departments. A combination of field work and interpretation of aerial photography are the primary means of providing necessary data, therefore familiarity with forestry field tools is a plus.

Pay and benefits vary based on the company, while either a degree or diploma in a natural resources disciplines or applicable experience is necessary.