FORESTER

FORESTERLocation: DeQueen, AR, US, 71832 Category: ARKANSAS AGRICULTURE DEPT Anticipated Starting Salary: $58,700Position Number: 22088607 County: Sevier; Little River Posting End Date: [[postingEndDate]] Anticipated Starting Salary: $58,700 Hiring Authority: 106 Forestry Drive Dierks, AR 71833 Phone: 870/286-2137 Email: shane.booth@agriculture.arkansas.govThe Forester is responsible for managing and protecting forest resources in Arkansas through sustainable forestry practices, conservation programs, wildfire prevention, and landowner assistance. This position involves conducting forest inventory assessments, timber management planning, wildfire suppression efforts, and public education initiatives.Primary Responsibilities:Develop and implement forest management plans based on best practices for sustainability.Conduct forest inventory assessments, tree measurements, and growth studies.Provide technical assistance to landowners on timber harvesting, reforestation, and conservation practices.Monitor forest health, invasive species, and pest management concerns.Support state and federal conservation programs, grants, and reforestation efforts.Participate in wildfire detection, suppression, and post-fire rehabilitation efforts.Conduct prescribed burns and fuel reduction activities to minimize fire risks.Train and assist local fire departments in wildfire prevention strategies.Operate and maintain firefighting equipment, tools, and protective gear.Educate landowners and community members on sustainable forestry, fire prevention, and land management.Conduct workshops, field visits, and presentations to promote best forestry practices.Serve as a liaison between the state forestry agency, landowners, logging professionals, and conservation organizations.Ensure compliance with Arkansas forestry laws, environmental regulations, and fire codes.Maintain accurate forestry records, reports, and GIS mapping data.Assist with timber sale inspections, harvest monitoring, and compliance reviews.Utilize remote sensing, GPS, and other forestry technology to support decision-making.Frequent exposure to hazardous conditions while fighting wildfires. May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours.Knowledge and Skills:Strong understanding of silviculture, forest ecology, and timber management.Proficiency in GIS mapping, GPS technology, and remote sensing applications.Knowledge of wildfire behavior, fire suppression techniques, and emergency response protocols.Experience with tree identification, soil analysis, and forest inventory techniques.Skill in assessing forest conditions and developing management solutions.Capability to conduct precise forestry measurements, documentation, and compliance reviews.Minimum Qualifications:Must pass an annual physical standard as a condition of employment.Must reside within assigned area or within 30-minute drive from workstation as a condition of employment.Licensure/Certifications Must be licensed as a Registered Forester in the state of Arkansas or obtain registration within one year of employment.Preferred Qualifications:Ability to work under extreme weather conditions, rough terrain, and potentially hazardous and/or dangerous conditions.May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours.Possess a valid Arkansas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or the ability to procure one.The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.