Interview with Terry Clark: Professional & Academic Perspectives of Forestry

Terry Clark has worked in the field of forestry for almost 30 years and is now Science Manager with the Society of American Foresters. He has worked for the State of Maryland's Forest Service and, most recently, for the Maryland Department of the Environment, Nontidal Wetlands and Waterways Division, where he served as Chief.

In his career, Mr. Clark has worked in forest management, forest products utilization, urban forestry, water resources regulation, wetlands protection and management, and as a manager and administrator. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Forestry from Northern Arizona University in 1972, and he is also an SAF Certified Forester and a Maryland Registered Professional Forester.

Terry Clark & His Career

How did you first become interested in the field of forestry?

When I was young and living in Arizona, I was always interested in plants and animals. I loved the outdoors and spent as much time outdoors activities as I could. I did well in science and math. I looked into several fields related to biology, surveying, wildlife management and agriculture, but forestry had it all. That's what makes the forestry profession so exciting. I was initially most interested in watershed management hydrology, but I developed an appreciation for all aspects of forestry as I grew in the profession. Some of these aspects include growing trees for forest products, managing for wildlife habitat, endangered plants and animals, recreational use, and natural beauty. You fight wildfires but, when the conditions are right, you use fire as a tool.

The first half of your career was in forestry, but you spent more than 10 years working in a water-oriented field. How did your forestry experience enhance your ability to make this transition?

The water for many public water supplies, including the major Baltimore and Washington metropolitan water supply systems, is yielded from predominantly forested watersheds. These watersheds are often used for forest recreational activities and the production of forest products. Many have professional foresters assign to manage them. From the time I was hired as a State of Maryland urban forester through my responsibilities with the Chesapeake Bay restoration programs, I served on watershed management committees and was directly involved in the management of watersheds. Forested wetlands were disappearing faster than any other category. I found the transition to water management programs was a natural one. At that time I made the change, the Maryland water management program was staffed primarily by geologists and engineers. My forestry experience added a new dimension to the unit.

You are now Science Manager for the Society of American Foresters. What does that entail?

The seven-member Forest Science and Technology Board, which is made of the United States' top forest scientists and managers, provides leadership and guidance for the Society's science program. As Science Manager, I facilitate the transfer of knowledge from the researchers and scientist to the foresters who implement day-to-day land management. I work with our members to conduct national, regional and sometimes, international, conferences and workshops and apply new technologies such as online conferencing and distance learning.

Do you have a personal environmental philosophy?

My personal environmental philosophy is that all living and non-living entities are part of the natural web. Natural resources are ours to use just as plants use nutrients derived from the air and the land, and animals feed on plants and each other. Humans have the responsibility as the stewards of these natural resources to use them wisely. We need to be mindful of the long-term consequences of our actions.

What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment of your career? How about the greatest setback?

Throughout my career I have worked as part of a team. Usually this team was composed of foresters and other natural resources and agricultural professionals, landscape architects, engineers and citizens. I think the most memorable accomplishment was the Maryland Governor's Conference on Forests and Trees during Governor Schaefer's administration. The conference was supported by a wide range of individuals and organizations throughout the state and resulted greater understanding among the various participants, new partnerships and a suite of recommendations, all of which have been implemented.

I can't think of a significant setback. We have to rise to the challenges and make the most of our opportunities. I can say that the greatest challenge was the regulation of Maryland's nontidal wetlands. Wetlands are an important and dynamic natural resource but the regulations are sometimes used to further other agendas, which cause the credibility of the laws and regulations suffer.

Is there more still that you want to accomplish?

Forestry is a broad field. We learn more about forests and trees every day. There are new challenges and we learn better ways to address them. As with any other business, forestry is becoming ever more global in scope. Americans are realizing that shifting the burden of forest products to other countries just causes new problems. I plan to learn as much as I can and share what I know with all those who will listen. The reason I applied for the Science Manager position was to get a different perspective and for the opportunity to interact with more of our members.

The Actual Work

Throughout your career as a forester, how much time did you spend in the office, in the field, on the road? How about now, in your current position?

The time I have spent in the office, the field and on the road has varied throughout my career. In the beginning my job as a Maryland State service forester put me in the field 60-70 percent of the time. The majority of my travel was within my two county service area of Anne Arundel and Prince George's County, Maryland. I could usually drive from one end to the other in less than two hours. The remaining time was spent in committee meetings such as the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission's Patuxent River Watershed Committee, training and preparing management plans and timber sale report for landowners.

As I moved into positions of statewide responsibility I spent at least 20 percent of my time on the road, in state and out-of-state. Even in a small state like Maryland, it takes over three hours to drive from Annapolis to parts of Somerset or Garrett Counties were some of the largest forests are located. Another 20 percent was spent in the field and the remaining 60 percent in the office, in training, developing and implementing training programs, developing long-range plans and addressing pressing issues such as pending legislation.

Now I spend 95 percent of my time in the office and at meetings. The remaining 5 percent is on the road, at meetings and conferences. I spend very little time in the field; however, I take satisfaction in supporting and furthering the profession. The foresters out in the field appreciate having people they trust representing them.

What can you tell us about the rewards and difficulties of being a leader in the field of forestry?

The rewards are the opportunities to learn from the leaders in forestry and related fields, to deal with the critical issues and to share what I have learned. Life is never dull. There are always more issues and opportunities than time. And, as I said previously, I take a great deal of satisfaction in knowing that when foresters ask me to get the answer to a question or to promote their point of view, that they rely on me to look out for their interests.

The challenges are the demands placed on my time, living up to expectations and not getting out in the field as often as I would like.

Would you care to describe your involvement in the Society of American Foresters? Can you give our readers an overview of the organization?

I have been a member of the Society of American Foresters since I was a student. I have held a variety of volunteer positions throughout my career, including the Chair of the Maryland-Delaware Division. I am currently a member of the professional staff in the National Office.

SAF is the national scientific and educational organization representing the forestry profession in the United States. Founded in 1900 by Gifford Pinchot, it is the largest professional society for foresters in the world. The mission of SAF is to advance the science, education, technology, and practice of forestry; to enhance the competency of its members; to establish professional excellence; and, to use the knowledge, skills, and conservation ethic of the profession to ensure the continued health and use of forest ecosystems and the present and future availability of forest resources to benefit society. SAF is a nonprofit organization meeting the requirements of 501 (c) (3). SAF members include natural resource professionals in public and private settings, researchers, CEOs, administrators, educators, and students.

How important is it to create and maintain relationships within the field? What are the best ways to do it?

It is essential. As I said earlier, there is a lot to know about forestry. To make sound decisions, we need to discuss issues with foresters and other professionals who have a different set of knowledge, experiences and perspectives. We develop these relationships through work contacts and participating in professional associations such as SAF. You have to be willing to share your perspectives and to listen to the lessons and feedback of others.

Working for government agencies throughout your career, have you met any obstacles that you wish you'd known about in advance, perhaps from a political-bureaucratic point of view?

From a political-bureaucratic point of view, I would have to say that you need to know that most politicians are special people trying to do an impossible job. They want to get things done and they want to do what is right. They often need help to understand the science and they rely on you to provide that advice, but when it comes time to make the deal or pass the law, they are willing to compromise the pure science to obtain the best result they can. Usually, this comes down to what is perceived to be fair and best for all.

Education Information & Advice

Tell us about your formal education. Did your education prepare you for what you actually do professionally?

I spent my first two years in the University of Arizona College of Agriculture and, after a tour of duty in Vietnam, earned a BS in Forestry from Northern Arizona University. I really enjoyed the experience and have found that my college education did an excellent job of preparing me for a career in forestry. We concentrated on learning the fundamentals in a way that exposed us to the interconnectedness of different aspects of natural resources management. With sound fundamentals, it was easy to learn to the specifics on the job.

You're an SAF (Society of American Foresters) Certified Forester and a Maryland Registered Professional Forester. Can you explain the process of becoming certified and its benefits to your career?

Maryland Registered Professional Forester status in required to practice independently as a forester in Maryland. About half the states have similar programs. To qualify in Maryland, you must have graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from an SAF accredited forestry program and practice forestry under the guidance of a Maryland Registered Professional Forester for a minimum of two years. To maintain your registration, you must obtain 8 hours of forestry continuing education credit every two years.

To become an SAF Certified Forester, you must have graduated with a Bachelor of Science from an SAF accredited forestry program, or the applicant must show equivalent training, and have practiced professional forestry for at least five years. To maintain certification, the SAF Certified Forester must complete 60 hour of continuing education every three years. Of the total, 30 hours must be in forestry. The remaining 30 hours may be in a closely related field that contributes to your professional development.

Being an SAF Certified Forester is a demonstration of professional development beyond the minimum required for employment. Certified Forester status will become more and more valuable as the requirement become known to the public.

What advice can you give to prospective students thinking about an education and career in forestry?

Learn all you can. Some people will say, "Oh, you'll never use that once you get out of school," but I think that you will apply everything you have learned to one extent or another. It gives you the foundation on which to build your career. New foresters should not underestimate the importance of good social skills.

What factors should prospective environmental students consider when choosing a program?

Forestry schools in the US fall in to two categories--those with professional forestry degree programs that meet rigorous national standards and have been accredited, and those that are not. Many employers require that you obtain your BS in Forestry from an accredited school, as do national forester certification and most forester registration and licensing programs. A list of schools with SAF-accredited curricula can be found at http://www.safnet.org/educate/edguide.htm.

Since forests vary by region, it's also a good idea to attend a forestry school in the area where you would like to begin your career. Forestry schools differ in size, and often have special emphases that reflect regional needs, so exploring the programs in several adjacent states is recommended. Some foresters complete a two-year technical program before going on to get their BS. However, I think that the knowledge and ability you demonstrate matter more than which accredited school you attend.

We've already discussed your involvement with SAF. How important is it to belong to professional organizations? What are some of the other prominent ones for forestry?

I think it is very important to belong to a professional organization. It helps you stay on top of the current and emerging issues, gives you opportunities to discuss the issues with others who understand your perspective, you develop relationships that last a lifetime, and you can work toward common goals to further your profession and help keep it relevant and viable. SAF is far and away the most prominent professional forestry organization. Some of the consultant foresters belong to the Association of Consulting Foresters of America and some foresters belong to the Forest Stewards Guild.

Although they are not professional organizations, many foresters join their state forestry association to deal with issue of local importance to the foresters, landowners, forestry businesses and other interested members that make up these organizations.

Job Information & Advice

What kinds of jobs are available for those graduating with a degree in forestry?

There is a wide range of jobs available to those graduating with a degree in forestry. Some foresters continue working in an academic setting teaching, conducting educational outreach programs and doing research. Forest researchers also work for government agencies, mostly federal. Other government foresters are responsible for managing public lands such as national, state or local forests, parks and road and utility rights-of-way. Some government and university extension foresters are responsible for conducting public forest management assistance and educational programs. Others are involved in administrative activities such as regulatory programs, land use planning, and the development of public policy, laws and regulations.

In the private sector, there are industrial foresters who also manage land or who are responsible for procuring stumpage to support forest products manufacturing facilities such as sawmills or pulpmills. Some urban foresters or watershed managers may do all of these things. Consultant foresters may do any of these things as well, depending on their interest, experience and abilities. Some foresters continue their education to specialize in a particular aspect of forestry such as environmental law. SAF has a forestry careers brochure online at http://www.safnet.org/educate/careerbro.pdf.

Do your chances of employment vary with geographic location? What about a career abroad?

The part of the country with the most forests such as the Pacific Northwest and the South have the greatest opportunity for traditional forestry positions. However, there are forestry jobs throughout the country. A new graduate may have to consider a position that may not fit their ideal job to gain experience.

For those interested in working abroad, there are entry-level government opportunities such as the Peace Corps as well as higher-level positions related to trade, public health, and forest productivity. There are also companies with international operations.

What's the pay scale for someone just starting a career? How about for those at the senior level?

SAF members are clustered around a pay range of from $30,000 to $55,000 with another large group at $70,000-$75,000 representing upper level government employees and a third group earns over $80,000 per year. The starting salary may be in the $25,000 to $30,000 range.

What advice can you give regarding the best ways to find a job in the field?

The best way to find a job is to make personal contacts with potential employers when possible, keep track of available jobs and maintain your contacts. Participation in SAF and similar organizations helps other foresters get to know you. Be flexible. Be willing to relocate. Learn the business, social and/or computer skills that other foresters may not posses to become more competitive.

How is the job market right now? How do you think it will be in the next five years? 10 years?

There are always jobs if you are competent, a team player and willing to be flexible; however, there are fewer job openings now than in the last few years. The shift in the economy has caused many businesses, in general, to cut back in employees. Of course, this will eventually lead to an upswing. The boon to new foresters is the pending retirement of the baby boomers. Job forecasters suggest that the wave of federal government retirements will present countless new opportunities in government service. Federal employees who have built careers on managing public land for the production of forest products but see a major shift in emphasis to non-commodity uses such as wilderness, recreation and endangered species habitat, seem to be willing to turn the reins over to a new generation of foresters. If the forecasters are correct, the opportunities will be manifested in the next 5 to 10 years.

Industry Trends

What do you consider to be the three most challenging problems facing forestry professionals today?

The challenges facing foresters are more sociological than environmental, although there is a direct relationship between the two.

Building Knowledge - I think too many people have an incomplete understanding of what we can and cannot do with our natural resources, including forests. The natural web that I mentioned earlier is much too complex for simplistic solutions. We need to approach the issues with humility and a willingness to share our knowledge.

Managing the Global Resource Base - We cannot shift our problems to some other corner of the world and we cannot take away others' ability to use their assets to improve their human condition.

Applying Science and Technology - Science and technology will provide the means to share knowledge and manage the global resource base. Foresters will be required to embrace the developing technologies to sustain their role in resource management.

How have computers and the Internet affected the everyday life of an environmental professional?

Computers in combination with specialized software, GIS and GPS systems, remote sensing, data loggers and other technologies have made mapping and forest inventories and a number of other applications to the desktop and have them easier and more accurate. You can get answers and download information from the Internet that could only be obtained in hardcopy just a few years ago. Email communication has made it easier to communicate with foresters around the world. I look forward to the future of technological applications.

Editor’s Note: If you have any questions for Mr. Clark related to this interview, please click here.