Registered Professional Foresters (RPFs) are responsible for looking after the forests of British Columbia. RPFs form part of the professional forestry team responsible for planning and approving all activities related to forest management. They make decisions such as when, where and how to harvest and reforest areas. They also ensure the protection of forest values including fish, wildlife and water.

"I make sure that harvested areas are replanted with new trees
that survive and grow into healthy new forests. "
Penny Hendricks, RPF

The functions and accountabilities of an RPF are generally more broadly defined than those of a Registered Forest Technologist and may address forest and landscape scale issues including the design of complex forest management regimes to achieve long-term outcomes. There are many specialties within forestry, and RPFs are experts in areas like entomology, ecology, hydrology, silviculture, road planning and numerous other fields.

"My job has a lasting impact. What I decide now
has impacts on people 80 to 100 years from now. "
Bill Bristow, RPF

Job Options
The following list of job titles is a sample of the diverse and varied jobs available to Registered Professional Foresters:

"Forests are both a natural resource and an economic resource.
The challenge for me, as a forester, is to find the balance."
Nick Arkle, RPF

Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions about Forest Professionals
BC Ministry of Forests & Range Careers in Forestry
How to Apply: Routes of Entry

More Information
Contact the registration department if you have any questions. [more]