A forest engineer is a type of civil engineer who works in the forestry industry and requires a strong foundation in civil, mechanical, and forest engineering. Forest engineers plan and design a variety of projects that have an impact on forests, such as forestry management, timberland clearing, and the construction of roads and other structures that allow access for forestry projects. These engineers also perform surveying, project management, and, in some cases, public relations. They may also serve as consultants, providing guidance during the construction process.
Before starting work, a forest engineer must have at least a bachelor’s degree or a professional degree. A forest engineer’s job entails analyzing survey reports, reading maps, drawings, and blueprints, and interpreting aerial photography and other geologic data. Other skills learned in school include how to plan and design hydraulic or transportation systems that meet government and construction standards using drawing tools and design software.
Many structures have an impact on forests, and a forest engineer may be responsible for ensuring that society’s needs are met while also protecting the natural environment. Water and sewage systems, culverts, bridges, equipment shelters, loading docks, and campsites are all built by forest engineers. Railroads, roads, airports, harbors, dams, irrigation projects, and power plants on or near forested land may also fall under their purview. Forest engineers are also in charge of forestry and wood product manufacturing structures, machines, and operations.
Managing and directing staff or estimating how much a project will cost and staying within that budget are examples of project oversight. Many forest engineers who oversee projects are also responsible for ensuring that the projects are completed on time. Standards for safety and sanitation must be met. The forest engineer is in charge of ensuring that all aspects of a project are compliant with regulations.
Surveying is frequently handled by a forest engineer, who may also conduct the survey himself. Surveying is used to determine grades, reference points, and elevations that will aid in the construction and installation of structures. During the surveying process, tests may be performed to check the soil and other materials to ensure that the foundations, asphalt, steel, and concrete are strong and stable enough for the project.
The public has a legal right to know what is being built, when it will be built, and where it will be built. Forest engineers investigate issues such as environmental conditions and traffic patterns to determine the potential impact of a new project. After that, an engineer may prepare or present a public report. Bid proposals to environmental impact statements are examples of these reports.