Soil conservationists provide technical advice to farmers, ranchers, and others on soil and water conservation as well as land erosion.
Most soil conservationists are employed by the federal government in the Department of Agriculture's Soil Conservation Service or in the Department of Interior's Bureau of Land Management. Other soil conservationists work for state and local governments.
Related jobs are soil scientist, range manager, and forester.
Places of Employment and Working Conditions
Soil conservationists work throughout the United States in nearly every county.
Most of their work is done outdoors.
Qualifications, Education, and Training
A soil conservationist should have good communication skills, an analytical mind, and a liking for outdoor work.
High school courses should include chemistry and biology.
Soil conservationists usually have a bachelor's degree with a major in agronomy (interaction of plants and soils), agricultural education, general agriculture, or related fields of natural resource sciences such as wildlife biology or forestry. Courses in agricultural engineering and cartography (mapmaking) are also helpful.
An advanced degree is usually necessary for college teaching and research positions.
Potential and Advancement
Although there will be growth of job opportunities in this field, the relatively small size of the field will mean competition for available openings.
Advancement is limited. Conservationists working at the county level can move up to state positions. They can also move on to similar occupations such as farm or ranch management advisor or land appraiser.
Income
Starting annual salaries with the federal government are $15,700 with a bachelor's degree; $23,800 with a master's degree. Experienced soil conservationists earn an average of $30,000 a year.
Additional Sources of Information
- American Society of Agronomy
- Soil Conservation Service
