Agricultural Careers Soil Conservationist By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Ms. Anna Burgess Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 START

Job Duties & Responsibilities Analyze various soil problems Help landowners, managers, farmers, and ranchers to implement management practices to control erosion Visit areas with erosion problems Manage watershed and riparian systems to sustain the productive use of forests and rangelands Plan and implement water management systems for irrigation, water conservation, and soil damage control due to floods and sediments Recommend techniques for protecting exposed soil and improving vegetation on dry and overgrazed rangelands Conduct land inspections to ensure that erosion control methods have been applied

Qualities and Skills Soil Scientists should obviously have an interest in geology and enjoy being outside. They should have the ability to negotiate, mediate, and manage interpersonal relationships sufficient to resolve difficult disagreements. They must be good problem solvers with excellent written and verbal communication skills. They should also have skills with computers.

Salary In 2003, most bachelor’s degree graduates entering the Federal Government as soil conservationists started at $23,442 or $29,037, depending on academic achievement. Those with a master’s degree could start at $35,519 or $42,976. Holders of doctorates could start at $51,508. Beginning salaries were slightly higher in selected areas where the prevailing local pay level was higher. In 2003, the average Federal salary for soil conservationists was $57,084. Those who work for the federal, state, or local government received more generous benefits than those who work in smaller firms.

Work Environment Some of the work is solitary Can be physically demanding Deal regularly with landowners, loggers, forestry technicians and aides, farmers, ranchers, government officials, special interest groups, and the public in general Some work regular hours in offices or labs Others may split their time between fieldwork and office work, while independent consultants and less experienced workers spend the majority of their time outdoors overseeing or participating in hands-on work Conservation scientists often are called to prevent erosion after a forest fire, and they may provide emergency help after floods, mudslides, and tropical storms.

Education The minimum requirement for this occupation is a bachelor's degree in agronomy, forestry, or geology focusing on soil science, soil conservation, range management, plant sciences, or a related subject. Senior positions require a post-graduate degree or, in some cases, a doctorate degree. An understanding of agriculture, hydrology, soil science, and land use is essential. A vast understanding of soil conservation principles, practices, and policies sufficient to advise local governments and other clients is also suggested.

Soil and Water Conservation Society Internet: Natural Resources Conservation Service Internet: Natural Resources Conservation Service Internet: National Soil Erosion Research Laboratory Internet: Journal of Soil and Water Conservation Internet: Career Resources