AN INCREASING NUMBER OF PEOPLE seem to

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1 Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems AN INCREASING NUMBER OF PEOPLE seem to be showing an interest in the health of our environment as demands on natural resources grow. Perhaps, you are one of these people. If your passion is strong enough, you might want to consider a career related to natural resources and environmental systems. Objectives: 1. Describe careers related to natural resources. 2. Describe careers related to environmental systems. Key Terms: air quality engineers atmospheric scientists climatologists conservation scientists ecologists environmental systems fisheries biologists foresters geoscientists hazardous materials coordinators hydrogeologists hydrologists liquid waste treatment plant and system operators natural resources park naturalists park rangers public relations specialists range managers soil scientists solid waste managers water treatment plant and system operators wildlife biologists wildlife managers Careers Related to Natural Resources Natural resources are those things found in nature, such as forests, mineral deposits, soil, and fresh water, that have economic value. Natural resources and their use provide many employment prospects. Career opportunities in natural resources are as diverse as the field of : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 1

2 natural resources. The levels of training and education vary as well. Some career opportunities are highlighted here. SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION Soil and water conservation related careers include conservation scientist and soil scientist. These and many other careers related to soil and water conservation require knowledge of soil structure and water quality. Conservation Scientists Conservation scientists manage, improve, and protect natural resources. They provide technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, state and local governments, and others concerned with the conservation of soil, water, and related natural resources. Conservation scientists may conduct soil surveys and develop plans to eliminate soil erosion. They offer advice in the best ways to use crop rotation, conservation tillage, or terracing to conserve soil and water; in the number and kind of livestock and forage plants best suited to particular ranges; and in range and farm improvements, such as fencing and reservoirs for stock watering. A background in science, math, and agriculture is helpful for those interested in this career field. Jobs range from entry-level to professional-level engineers and scientists. Soil Scientists FIGURE 1. Conservation scientists are concerned with the conservation of soil, water, and related natural resources. (Courtesy, Agricultural Research Service, USDA) Soil scientists study the chemical and physical characteristics of the earth s crust and the thin layer of soil upon it. They conduct work into determining how soil forms, manage soils, make maps, and classify soil types. Soil scientists pay special attention to how people use soil as a natural resource. Classes with an emphasis in physical science, math, and biological science are recommended for those interested in careers as soil scientists. Strong computer skills are also beneficial. The minimum level of education required is a bachelor s degree. Conducting soil surveys to determine the characteristics of soil types is a common responsibility of soil scientists. The soil surveys provide information that enables soil scientists to provide advice on land management. Land management is the wise use of soil as a natural resource, for recreation, and in road planning. Soil scientists may also be involved with envi- : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 2

3 ronmental issues, such as the handling of waste and contamination. This is especially important in former mining areas. FORESTERS AND RANGE MANAGERS Foresters and range managers manage, develop, use, and help protect forests, livestock forage, minerals, and water. They are also involved in managing sites for recreational activities and providing habitats for wildlife. These professionals may specialize in the study of forest ecology, tree physiology, and insect and disease management. Additional areas of focus include water systems, forest soils, geology, and microclimatology. Careers require a minimum of an associate s degree, and many require a more advanced degree. These professions are primarily outdoors and require a number of hands-on skills. Foresters Foresters manage forested lands for a variety of purposes. They may be employed in the private sector or work for the state or federal government. A forester in the private sector takes inventory of the type, amount, and location of all standing timber on a property in a process known as timber cruising. He or she appraises the timber s worth, negotiates the purchase of timber, and draws up a contract for procurement. The forester subcontracts with loggers or pulpwood cutters for tree removal, aids in road layout, and maintains close contact with the subcontractors workers and the landowner to ensure that the work meets the landowner s requirements, as well as federal, state, and local environmental specifications. Foresters must consider the economic as well as the environmental impact on natural resources. They determine the best ways to conserve wildlife habitats, stream health, water quality, and soil stability. Foresters also supervise the planting and growing of new trees. Range Managers Range managers manage, improve, and protect rangelands to maximize their use while limiting environmental damage. Rangelands consist of grass and shrubs for animal grazing, wildlife habitats, water from vast watersheds, recreation facilities, and valuable mineral and energy resources. FIGURE 2. A rangeland specialist. (Courtesy, National Resources Conservation Service, USDA) : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 3

4 WILDLIFE MANAGERS, FISHERIES BIOLOGISTS, AND WILDLIFE BIOLOGISTS Wildlife managers, fisheries biologists, and wildlife biologists manage and sustain healthy populations of fish and wildlife. Career opportunities can be found with government, industry, and private organizations. Wildlife Managers Wildlife managers manage natural resources, with emphasis on wildlife and the environment in which the animals live. Wildlife managers research and manage wildlife. They strive to learn as much as possible about wildlife and its habitat. With the knowledge gained, they can promote the health of wildlife populations and protect essential habitat. An entry-level position generally requires a bachelor s degree in a biological science with a wildlife-related field. Some positions are available for those with an associate s degree in wildlife or fisheries biology. The largest employer of wildlife managers is the federal government. Fisheries Biologists Fisheries biologists see that fisheries are appropriately maintained and that environmental conditions are suitable for the respective species. Wildlife Biologists Wildlife biologists study wild animals and their habitats. They seek to provide sound management and conservation of our nation s biological resources. This is accomplished through the conduct of basic and applied research in both the field and the laboratory. Wildlife biology is a multidisciplinary approach to the study of wildlife involving zoology, botany, chemistry, mathematics, or various combinations of these disciplines. PARKS, RECREATION, AND TOURISM FIGURE 3. A fisheries biologist conducting a fish population survey. (Courtesy, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service) Parks, recreation, and tourism deals with the human aspects of natural resource management. Park ranger and park naturalist are two careers in this area. These professionals recog- : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 4

5 nize the different ways in which people connect with and relate to nature. They frequently provide guidance and help people develop an appreciation for natural resources. People in this line of work often work in wilderness areas or state and national parks. Park Rangers Park rangers perform a wide variety of duties in managing parks, historic sites, and recreational areas. Park rangers supervise, manage, and perform work in conservation. Their tasks include: Forest or structural fire control Protection of property Gathering and dissemination of natural, historic, or scientific information Development of interpretive material for the natural, historic, or cultural features of an era Demonstration of folk art and crafts Enforcement of laws and regulations Investigation of violations, complaints, trespass/encroachment, and accidents Search and rescue Management of historic, cultural, and natural resources, such as wildlife, forests, lakeshores, seashores, historic buildings, battlefields, archaeological properties, and recreation areas Park rangers operate campgrounds, provide information to visitors, and lead guided tours. They ensure the safety of the millions of visitors who hike, climb, ski, boat, fish, and explore these natural resources. The U.S. Department of the Interior employs park rangers in our national parks. The duties performed by park rangers vary due to the grade of position, the site s size, and specific needs. FURTHER EXPLORATION ONLINE CONNECTION: Career Interest Selecting a career is not always easy. Sometimes even determining what you like to do is difficult. These dilemmas are common with young adults. Fortunately, there are a number of resources that can help you pin down your interests and identify a career to pursue. Check with the counseling department at your school. Counselors can guide you to interest surveys that can be beneficial in narrowing your interests. Some states have online career interest surveys you can access. After completing these types of surveys, you are provided with suggestions as to which careers might be best for you. : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 5

6 The minimum education requirement to be a park ranger is typically a bachelor s degree. However, a high school diploma followed up by training and experience in conservation work or park operations is sometimes enough. Coursework most beneficial for this profession includes botany, zoology, geology, ecology, park management, forestry, and the social sciences. Park Naturalists Park naturalists plan, develop, and conduct programs to educate park visitors about national, state, or local parks. They may lecture on historic, natural, and scientific features of natural areas, plan camping trips, or teach outdoor skills. The goal of a park naturalist is to create interest and excitement about the natural world. To achieve this goal, the park naturalist may lead nature hikes and classroom discussions, create multimedia presentations and audio-visual displays, or write magazine and newspaper articles to educate the public about the park and encourage people to visit. A naturalist is very familiar with the wildlife and vegetation found in the park. He or she may also participate in the general operation of a visitor center and coordinate the activities of seasonal staff members and interns. A bachelor s degree in forestry, anthropology, wildlife management, environmental science, or a related field is the minimum educational requirement for most park naturalist positions. Training in education methods is helpful. POLICY AND PLANNING Careers related to policy and planning are available for people with an interest in making decisions necessary to manage environmental and natural resources. Such decisions may be big (as with the federal Clean Water Act) or little (as with a local recycling program). In general, a person needs a background in natural resources or environmental sciences to develop strategies that will be used. Careers Related to Environmental Systems Environmental systems are all the interactions between climate, the solid earth, water, and the living things on Earth. This field of endeavor supports a variety of career paths. Some of them are presented here. CLIMATE Many careers are related to climate. A few are climatologist, atmospheric scientist, and air quality engineer. : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 6

7 Climatologists Climatologists study the climate, which is the temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind, rainfall, atmospheric particle count, and related meteorological features of an area noted over a long period. They are particularly interested in climate change, climate variability, and the effects of climate on the biosphere. They use computers to predict the effects of climate on agricultural crops. State and federal governments FIGURE 4. A NASA climatologist. (Courtesy, NASA) employ climatologists. Educational requirements to be a climatologist include courses in meteorology and climatology, as well as courses in agricultural, biological, computer, or natural sciences. A strong background in math and physics is essential. Atmospheric Scientists Atmospheric scientists, commonly called meteorologists, study the atmosphere s physical characteristics, motions, and processes and the way they affect the rest of our environment. These scientists apply atmospheric knowledge to forecasting the weather, air-pollution control, agriculture, air and sea transportation, defense, and the study of trends in Earth s climate, such as global warming, droughts, and ozone depletion. The minimum educational requirement for an entry-level position as an atmospheric scientist is a bachelor s degree in atmospheric science or in a closely related field, with courses in meteorology. Atmospheric science is a small field, so relatively few colleges and universities offer degrees. Interested students should determine whether the desired program of courses is offered at the college they are considering. Air Quality Engineers A career related to the quality of air is an air quality engineer. Air quality engineers inspect, analyze, and quantify levels of pollution and the impact the pollutants have on the environment. Those in this profession require an understanding of air and how to test its quality. Air quality engineers generally work indoors. The minimum educational requirement for air quality engineers is a bachelor of science degree in engineering. Generally, emphasis should be on chemical, mechanical, or environmental engineering. Opportunities improve with a master of science degree in a field related to air quality. Government agencies, private industries, and consulting firms employ air quality engineers. : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 7

8 GEOSCIENTISTS Geoscientists possess knowledge of the solid earth, or lithosphere. A geoscientist is involved in the discovery, exploration, and development of natural resources, such as gas, oil, coal, and water. Geoscientists interpret geophysical, geochemical, and geological data to develop models of the earth s subsurface. The goal is to use the models to discover reserves of natural resources, such as oil and gas. A master s degree in geology or earth science is necessary, as very few jobs are available for geoscientists with only bachelor s degrees. WATER Water is one of our most important natural resources. Hydrology is the study of the distribution, movement, and quality of water on Earth. Two careers related to hydrology are hydrologist and hydrogeologist. Hydrologists Hydrologists examine the physical characteristics, distribution, and circulation of water above and below the earth s surface. They study how water cycles through the environment. Many hydrologists are involved with water conservation. They may monitor water quantity and quality and predict supplies. Hydrologists often serve as consultants to government agencies, scientists, engineers, and developers. A bachelor s degree is required, and a master s degree is ideal to become a hydrologist. Academic studies typically include geology, geophysics, civil engineering, soil science, forestry, and agricultural engineering. Coursework should include chemistry, physics, calculus, water quality, hydrology, hydraulics, and meteorology. Hydrogeologists Hydrogeologists study the distribution, flow, and quality of underground water, whereas hydrologists tend to be more concerned with surface water. Hydrogeologists contribute to the better management of natural resources and better protection of the groundwater. FIGURE 5. A soil scientist and hydrogeologist gather information about the interaction between surface runoff and groundwater. (Courtesy, Agricultural Research Service, USDA) : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 8

9 WASTE MANAGEMENT Waste management is a major environmental concern. Three primary types of waste are solid waste, wastewater, and hazardous waste. Solid Waste Manager A career title in solid waste management is solid waste manager. Solid waste managers have many different duties, including financing, rate setting, compliance monitoring, and site remediation. They may also oversee community education, assure program quality, and direct engineers, construction workers, and contractors who built and maintain the various facilities. Familiarity with current and emerging technologies, regulations, and statutes is very important. Water and Liquid Waste Treatment Plant and System Operators Water and liquid waste treatment plant and system operators oversee processes that convert wastewater into water that is safe to release into the environment. A high school diploma along with certification is often enough to qualify for these positions. Water treatment plant and system operators run the equipment, control the processes, and monitor water treatment plants that make water safe to drink. Liquid waste treatment plant and system operators work to remove pollutants from domestic and industrial wastewater. Hazardous Materials Coordinator Hazardous materials coordinators oversee hazardous materials programs. They must have the ability to work in a safe and effective manner. Managerial skills, communication skills, and computer skills are valuable. Familiarity with laws pertaining to hazardous waste and compliance with those laws are essential. Ecologists Ecologists are scientists who study the relationships of living things to their environment and with each other. They examine the effects of a wide range of factors, such as population size, rainfall, temperature, forest fires, and major construction projects. Ecologists may study how a forest area recovers through succession after a fire. Field work involving strenuous physical activity and primi- FIGURE 6. An ecologist inspects a riparian forest buffer planted to provide protection from manure nutrients running off into ponds and the downstream watershed. (Courtesy, Agricultural Research Service, USDA) : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 9

10 tive living conditions is common for some. Most ecologists have academic backgrounds in chemistry, environmental science, geology, biology, climatology, and statistics. COMMUNICATIONS Careers in communication and education present opportunities in natural resources and environmental systems. Public Relations Specialists Public relations specialists handle organizational functions, such as media, community, consumer, industry, and governmental relations. They must understand the attitudes and concerns of community, consumer, employee, and public interest groups. To become qualified as a public relations specialist, one should obtain a bachelor s degree in public relations, journalism, marketing, or communications. Environmental Science or Natural Resources Teacher An environmental science or natural resources teacher is most often employed in a formal school setting. Requirements to become a teacher at the secondary level include a bachelor s degree in education and certification. To be a teacher in a community college or university, one may need a doctoral degree. Summary: Soil and water conservation related careers include conservation scientist and soil scientist. Foresters and range managers manage, develop, use, and help protect forests, livestock forage, minerals, and water. Wildlife managers, fisheries biologists, and wildlife biologists manage and sustain healthy populations of fish and wildlife. Two careers associated with parks, recreation, and tourism are park ranger and park naturalist. Careers related to policy and planning are available for people with an interest in making decisions necessary to manage environmental and natural resources. A few careers related to climate are climatologist, atmospheric scientist, and air quality engineer. Geoscientists are involved in the discovery, exploration, and development of natural resources. : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 10

11 Two careers related to hydrology are hydrologist and hydrogeologist. Three waste management related careers are solid waste manager, water and liquid waste treatment plant and system operator, and hazardous materials coordinator. Ecologists are scientists who study the relationships of living things to their environment and with each other. Communications careers include public relations specialist and teacher. Checking Your Knowledge: 1. What are some careers associated with wildlife, forests, and rangeland? 2. What are two careers related to parks, recreation, and tourism? 3. How do hydrologists and hydrogeologists differ? 4. What are some climate-related careers? 5. What are some waste management related careers? Expanding Your Knowledge: Think of a career that interests you. Go online to learn about the career. See whether people employed in that career field are located near you. If they are, contact them and request an informal interview to learn more. Web Links: Careers in Forestry and Natural Resources Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Challenging Careers in the Natural Resources Conservation Service Agricultural Career Profiles : Careers in Natural Resources and Environmental Systems Page 11