Summary
Ranger Roles
To watch
The ranger is directly on the area he must watch:
- he sees to its conservation;
- it controls operations and work sites in progress, such as afforestation for example.
To tend to
The ranger also monitors the “health” of the forest. It is up to him to intervene when a disease appears on a tree.
Inform
He also acts as an advisor to the general public. In particular, it educates walkers and warns them about the precautions to take in the forest. If offenses are committed, he can draw up the report.
Forest ranger working conditions
Official
The forest ranger is most of the time an official of the ONF. More rarely, he may be employed by another private organization or private owners. In all cases, it is present in a territorial constituency called “triage”.
Constraints
The forest ranger is sworn and must wear the uniform to be distinguished. He does his work outside, summer and winter, in the sun or the rain… He can be on call:
- in summer, to prevent forest fires
- when the hunt opens…
It can be present at night or even on weekends.
Rarely alone
In his field, he works as a sorting supervisor, and can work in conjunction with other technicians and workers. He is also in constant contact with:
- town halls ;
- loggers;
- and the general public.
How much does a forest ranger earn?
The salary of the forest ranger varies according to:
- their level of education;
- His experience ;
- and the structure that employs it.
In general, at the start of his career, he receives around €1,200 gross per month, including bonuses.
Training to become a forest ranger
The BEPA
The professional agricultural aptitude certificate “forestry work” is accessible from the end of 3rd and can be prepared in 2 years.
The competition
The ONF then recruits forest rangers through a national competition, but the places are few (between 1 and 40 each year).
Qualifications needed to become a ranger
Visual and auditory acuity
The ranger must have a good knowledge of the forest ecosystem and the different techniques necessary for its maintenance. He must also have a keen sense of observation, and quickly perceive failures in this vast field.
Physical skills
He must be in good health. The ranger spends a large part of his days outdoors, he may have to carry loads or equipment.
Human relations
The forest ranger informs the general public but also the municipal authorities, he must therefore be comfortable communicating orally. He must also demonstrate the ability to take initiative.
Content updated on 07/06/2012
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