Career in Forestry & Wildlife

What: “The study of nature has no beginning and it has no end,” Jim Corbett had said in Jungle Lore.

Forests and rangelands supply wood products, livestock forage, water and minerals; serve as locations for a number of recreational activities and it also provide habitants for various species of wildlife. Today, there is a growing concern for the environment and its creatures and many individuals are devoting their time and pursuing careers that work toward the conservation of forests and the protection of the wildlife

Careers in forestry, wildlife conservation and natural resources industries vary. Forestry and wildlife specialists work in the outdoors for both private, public and government owned and managed parks, campgrounds, hiking trails, lakes, fish hatcheries and reserves. Individuals working in this particular field typically work in and run Forest Conservation programs, watch and protect wildlife, and monitor and treat trees for disease.

Their salary ranges between Rs 8,000 to Rs 50,000 per month depending upon qualification and experiences. Those working in corporate houses and consultancy companies have very lucrative pay packages along with numerous fringe benefits. Salary and other allowances are even higher in international agencies, media houses and consultancy firm.

How: As the consciousness among the people for conservation of forest is growing, so also the career opportunities available to Forestry graduates are also increasing. Forestry graduates can take up jobs in various government departments like department of forest and wildlife. They can be employment in NGOs working in conservation and up gradation of forests. Corporate houses involved in timber plantations also need the services of Forestry graduates. They also can take up research work in public sector research institutions like Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), Institute of Social Forestry and Eco-rehabilitation and Wildlife Research Institutes.

To start a career in Forestry a B.Sc degree in this subject is required. The minimum qualification for B.Sc Forestry is 10+2 pass with science subjects. Further studies can be pursued in M.Sc. Forestry for which minimum qualification is a bachelor’s degree Forestry. At this level specialized subjects are offered like Forest Management, Commercial Forestry, Forest Economics, Wood Science & Technology and Wildlife Science. Besides these courses there is Post Graduate Diploma in Forest Management offered by professional institutions. Those who are interested in further study can opt for M.Phil/PhD degree in Forestry which opens of more opportunities.

Where: There are many wild life species in India that are endangered and need to be protected and conserved. As an Indian Forest Service or State Forest Service Officer, your core job will be protection and conservation of forest resources and wild life.

In India, there are over 500 protected forest areas. If you get a job in one of these areas, you will be devising, implementing and monitoring detailed management plans. You will be constantly monitoring habitat parameters, resources and human population. You will also be in charge of preservation and protection of forests from campers and poachers.

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