What are the different types of foresters?
Foresters play a critical role in managing Tennessee’s forest resources, but not all foresters do the same work. The Tennessee Accredited Forester Council (TNAFC) recognizes professionals across several sectors of forestry, each contributing unique expertise to sustainable forest management, conservation, education, and industry. The profiles below outline the different types of TNAFC foresters and the responsibilities associated with each role.
At a glance
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| Forester Type | Demographic Category | Who They Work With | Main Focus | Service Interests | This Forester Is for You If You Want To… |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Consulting Forester | Consultant | Private landowners | Client relationships, area timber market demand | Forest Management Plans, Greenbelt (Tax) Plans, Timber Sales, Forest Inventory/Appraisal, Reforestation/Tree Planting, Prescribed Burning, Apply for Cost Share Assistance, Forest Certification (Tree Farm), Wildlife or Recreation Management | Work with an independent expert who works for you, on a fee or contractual basis, helping you manage, sell, and improve your woods while keeping them healthy long-term. |
| Industry Forester | Industry | Mills, manufacturers, Private landowners | Timber procurement, supply chain, and sustainability | Timber Sales, Forest Certification (Tree Farm) | Sell timber and work directly with a company that buys wood — balancing market value with forest sustainability. |
| State Government Forester | State/Local Govt | Private landowners | Technical assistance and conservation | General Forest Health, Forest Management Plans, Reforestation/Tree Planting, Prescribed Burning, Apply for Cost Share Assistance, Forest Certification (Tree Farm), Wildlife or Recreation Management | Obtain general forestry advice to help manage your woods, improve forest health, or develop a sustainable management plan for your property. |
| Federal Government Forester | Federal Govt | Public land management agencies | Federal lands and multi-resource management | Coordinate Management With Adjacent Federal Lands, Federal Programs | Manage property adjacent to or near federal lands and/or desire to know more about available federal programs. |
| Academic Forester | College/University | Universities, research institutions, Private landowners | Education, research, and workshops through universities | Education/Workshop | Know in depth information on a forestry subject through reading research or attending a workshop |
| Nonprofit/NGO Forester | Non-Government Organization (NGO) | Private landowners, conservation partners, communities | Restoration, conservation, and land stewardship support | Forest & Habitat Restoration, Apply for Cost Share Assistance, Carbon Sequestration | Participate in forest ecosystem restoration programs, conservation easements, or carbon sequestration. |
Consulting Forester
A TNAFC consulting forester is a professional who works with private landowners, on a fee or contractual basis, to develop sustainable forest management plans that meet the landowner’s goals for their property. These plans may include Forest Certification through the Tennessee Tree Farm Program or Greenbelt Property Tax Abatement Plans. Their responsibilities often include timber inventory, forest health assessments, timber sales, overseeing harvesting operations to ensure best practices are followed, timber stand improvement, reforestation, and prescribed burning. Consulting foresters also help landowners navigate regulations, apply for cost-share programs, carry out or connect landowners with qualified vendors to complete forestry practices, and market their timber to get fair value. They work independently without financial interest in timber purchasing. By combining scientific knowledge with practical experience, consulting foresters help ensure forests remain healthy and productive for generations.
Industry Forester
A TNAFC industry forester is responsible for sourcing timber, in a sustainable manner, to supply mills and manufacturing facilities. Some industry foresters may write management plans for forest certification through the Tennessee Tree Farm Program. They work closely with private landowners and logging contractors to identify, negotiate, and purchase standing timber that meets specific quality and volume requirements. Their role includes evaluating forest tracts, estimating timber value, and ensuring harvesting operations comply with environmental regulations and company sustainability standards. By balancing business needs with sustainable forestry practices, industry foresters help ensure a consistent and responsible supply chain.
State Government Forester
A TNAFC state government forester works with private landowners to promote sustainable forest management practices. They provide technical assistance, helping landowners develop forest management plans that support timber production, wildlife habitat, recreation, and conservation goals. These plans may include Forest Stewardship Plans and forest certification through the Tennessee Tree Farm Program. This does not include Greenbelt Property Tax Abatement Plans. These foresters often give guidance to assist with tree planting, thinning, and pest control, ensuring long-term forest health and productivity. They also help landowners access cost-share programs, navigate forestry regulations, and connect with qualified vendors for forestry work. State government foresters help maintain healthy forests that benefit both landowners and the broader community.
Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Forester
A TNAFC forester working for a non-governmental organization (NGO) focuses on promoting sustainable forest management and conservation efforts, usually within a specified area or for a special natural resource concern (such as White Oak or Shortleaf pine restoration or at-risk wildlife habitat). They often collaborate with private landowners, local communities, governments, and other stakeholders on special focus programs to restore forest ecosystems and biodiversity. Their work may include conducting ecological assessments, developing restoration projects on private or public lands, and advocating for policies that support environmental stewardship. NGO foresters also engage in education and workshops, helping raise awareness about forestry and environmental issues on both a local and global level.
Federal Government Forester
A TNAFC federal government forester manages and protects forest resources on public lands owned by the United States. They work for agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management, overseeing activities like timber harvesting, wildfire prevention, and habitat conservation. Their duties include conducting forest inventories, developing land management plans, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Federal foresters also collaborate with scientists, local communities, and other stakeholders to balance ecological health with public use and economic interests. Through their work, federal foresters help preserve natural resources for future generations while supporting sustainable land use today.
Academic Forester
A TNAFC forester in academia focuses on advancing the science and education of forest ecosystems and management. They conduct research on topics such as sustainable resource use, forest health, biodiversity, and climate change impacts. These professionals teach university-level courses, mentor students, and lead field-based learning experiences to prepare future forestry professionals. Their work often involves publishing scientific papers, securing research grants, and collaborating with government agencies or industry partners. Some have an extension appointment and work to share forestry education with private landowners through workshops and other outreach efforts. Through a blend of teaching, research, and outreach, they play a vital role in shaping both forestry knowledge and practice.
TIMO / REIT Forester
A TNAFC TIMO/REIT forester working for a Timber Investment Management Organization (TIMO) or Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) manages forestland as a financial asset. Their primary goal is to maximize returns for investors through sustainable timber production, land sales, and conservation strategies. They oversee forest operations such as harvesting, reforestation, and road construction while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. These foresters also conduct timber inventories, analyze market trends, and help develop long-term management plans that balance profitability with ecological stewardship. Collaboration with contractors, consultants, and regulatory agencies is a key part of their role. By combining forestry expertise with investment strategy, they help turn natural resources into reliable, long-term financial returns.
