The Forestry Lifecycle

Research & Breeding

Research plays an important role in the forestry industry. Research foresters solve problems when they arise in the forest, and they're always planning for future forests. Because of their work, today's trees are straighter, faster-growing and more disease-resistant than their ancestors. 

Research & Breeding

Grafting

Forestry researchers can get decades ahead in their research by using a technique called grafting. Learn more about this common agricultural technique that helps a young tree perform like a much older tree.

Learn More

Research & Breeding

Breeding Pinecones

You won't believe how far our researchers will go to produce the best trees! Find out how they do some natural tree "matchmaking" high in the treetops through a technique called controlled pollination.

Learn More

Research & Breeding

Collecting Pinecones & Pollen

Researchers collect pinecones by the tractor trailer load, and pollen by the liter jug! This work plays a key role in growing stronger, healthier trees all across the U.S.

Learn More

Green Jobs in Forestry Research & Breeding

Forest Biometrician

Forest Biometricians use research, mathematics and statistics to help their company make decisions about the future. They may write papers for their company or for trade publications to share their findings.
View Job Profile

Geologist

Forest geologists study landforms, soil types, rock structures and groundwater flows that contribute to the forest ecosystem and develop proper management strategies to promote a healthy and sustainable forest.
View Job Profile

Geomorphologist

A geomorphologist is a research scientist who studies the earth's surface and our impact on it. In the forestry industry, this individual helps ensure the working forest aligns with sustainability practices that protect the earth.
View Job Profile

GIS Manager

A GIS Manager oversees geographic information systems in support of forestry activities. Geographic information is added to software and used to analyze data, make calculations, create maps and more.
View Job Profile

Research Forester

A research forester develops, leads and conducts collaborative research projects across a wide range of forests. Using this information, the research forester provides science-based information and guidelines to operational foresters.
View Job Profile

Soil Scientist

A soil scientist studies the soils of the forest and determines what their impact will be on tree growth. Different trees will thrive in different soil types, so this information is critical in planting. Soil type will also help determine the need or lack of need for fertilization.
View Job Profile

Tree Breeder

A Tree Breeder, or Tree Improvement Forester, uses scientific principles to breed tree families in the quest for healthier, more disease-resistant, faster-growing trees.
View Job Profile

Wildlife Biologist

In forestry, a wildlife biologist helps monitor, protect and enhance forest wildlife and their habitats through a focus on sustainable and responsible forest management. 
View Job Profile
View All Job Profiles

The Sustainability Story

Continuing to grow strong, healthy forests for generations to come is at the foundation of sustainable forestry. Through research and breeding, trees are made more resilient, able to fight off diseases and insects and compete with weeds and other invasive plants.

Learn more about sustainable forestry and the many ways forests contribute to a strong, healthy environment worldwide.

Learn More