Ian Kirby, Woodlot Forester
My Future
Forestry outlook good
Environmental issues are now affecting decisions being made at all levels of government. My role helps people make environmentally responsible decisions, so I think forest extension* is going to be a growth industry.
Right now there are 10 forest extension positions in Manitoba, and probably 30 in all of Canada, not including private consultants. Professional forestry in industrial scale forest companies is expanding, so I think it's safe to say forest extension will be a stable career path in the future.
*Note: Forest extension officers provide woodlot management information to landowners.