Forestry Assistance Program (FAP) Forester

The Forestry Assistance Program provides private landowners with technical assistance and information regarding forestry, wildlife habitat, and related natural resource concerns, so that they may make informed decisions and implement sound strategies regarding the use and management of their forestlands. Primary office space for the Forestry position is located at the Oceana Conservation District office in Shelby, Michigan. The service area includes Oceana, Muskegon and Newaygo counties. A degree in Forestry or Society of American Foresters Certification is required for this position. Target start date is October 1, 2026.

Essential Functions: Fulfill grant requirements and deliverables as outlined below.

1)    Serve as initial point of contact for private forest landowners, natural resource professionals and local governments for the management of forestland, wildlife habitat, and related natural resource activities in Oceana, Newaygo, and Muskegon Counties.

2)    Provide, as a public service, both in-office and on-site assistance to private forest landowners so that they can make informed decisions regarding resource management on their property.

3)    Conduct outreach and education including demonstrations, workshops, and field days. Topics may include, types of forest management plans, Qualified Forest Program, Commercial Forest Program, Michigan Tree Farm, forestry and taxes, timber management contracts, selecting a consultant, options available for forest management, forest health, invasive species, or fire management.

4)    Create and maintain a list of qualified foresters, and actively implement a referral program which connects interested landowners with those professionals to facilitate sustainable planning and management of their property.

5)    Work closely with and maintain a good working relationship with other resource management professionals, both public and private, in support of landscape level planning and management of natural resources. Additionally, establish a relationship with mills, processors, and co-gen plants utilizing forest products from the local area.

6)    Prepare and submit an annual plan of work and monthly and annual accomplishment reports. Maintain a landowner contact document which tracks name, address, phone, site location, acres, a general assessment, and timber type.

7)    Provide public relations activities and indirect contact with the news media and general public. Prepare articles for newsletters, magazines, newspapers, radio or television spots.

8)    Provide advice on the selection and planting of trees, shrubs, and other plants for reforestation and wildlife habitat restoration.

9)    Provide appropriate management options for threatened and endangered plants and animals to all landowners through the use of the Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI) database.

10) Provide advice on the identification and control of insects, diseases, invasive plants and wildlife pests for woodlands. Help monitor the occurrence and spread of insects, diseases, and pests.

11) Provide information on federal and state programs, agencies, organizations, and individuals that provide technical and/or financial assistance for forest management activities.

12) Review all Qualified Forest Program (QFP) applications to determine program eligibility and complete all QFP Parcel Eligibility Determination Forms sent to the district office by the QFP staff.

13) Promote the availability of the MAEAP Forestry, Wetlands, and Habitat (FWH) assessment tool to landowners. Conduct and record the completion of the MAEAP FWH assessments. Encourage the full implementation of the management plan and pursuit of MAEAP verification.

14) Assist conservation districts with their tree and shrub sales.

Other FAP Forester Functions

1)    Prepare regular, written reports to Conservation District Boards (monthly).

2)    Pursue certified forester status with the Society of American Foresters (SAF).

3)    Attend trainings and conferences.

4)    Assist the Conservation District to achieve deliverables as well as short- and long-term goals.

5)    Other duties and functions as assigned.

Education/Experience/Skills/Requirements

1)    Minimum of a Bachelor of Science Degree in Forestry or SAF Candidate Certification is required.

2)    Excellent organizational, management, public presentation and communication skills.

3)    Ability to work independently, as well as effectively with individuals and groups (including those with different philosophies, educational backgrounds, and/or economic status).

4)    Appreciation for and commitment to sustainability and conservation of natural resources.

5)    Timely attendance at work and appointments.

6)    Computer skills in Microsoft applications.

7)    Knowledge/experience with GIS, remote sensing and natural resource management software.

8)    Currently holds and maintains a valid driver’s license and must be able to pass a background check.

Work Schedule

1)    Position is based on a 40 hour work week with normal office hours Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.

2)    Must be available for occasional evening meetings, weekend events, workshops and overnight conferences/conventions.

Wages and Benefits

1)    Pay range: $22-$27/hour, depending on experience and SAF certification.

2)    Mileage and expense reimbursement.

3)    Holiday, sick, and vacation compensation (11 paid holidays per year and 4 hours of sick and annual leave earned per pay period).

4)    Quarterly contributions toward Health Care or Retirement.

Employment

The Oceana Conservation District, as an Equal Opportunity employer, complies with applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination. It is the policy of the Oceana Conservation District that no person, on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability, or Vietnam-era status, shall be discriminated against in employment or promotions.

Employment with the District is “at will” and an employee may be terminated at any time with or without cause and with or without notice, subject to applicable state and federal laws. Employment is at the discretion of the Board and contingent upon factors determined by the Board including, but not limited to, available funding, job performance, changes in program direction or organization.

*There will be a non-compete clause in the working agreement for this position—no other paid forestry work may be done by the forester during the term of employment with Oceana Conservation District.