462637 
Many National Forest jobs 
require the skills of engineers... 
Initiation and subsequent performance and completion of any project is an 
interesting process. Basically, any work undertaken must relate to a funda- 
mental objective of Forest Service administration. National Forest resources 
must be available for proper use and must be so protected, managed, and 
developed as to produce a maximum of benefit for the longtime good of the 
greatest number of people. 
Application of this concept of conservation—called multiple use because 
it applies to all resources of forest land—requires careful planning. Every 
National Forest has a project work inventory. Any proposed job stemming 
from apparent need is studied in relation to general policy and justification. 
Costs are estimated, benefits are determined, alternate possibilities are 
studied. Approved jobs are listed in the inventory. Priorities are considered, 
funds are earmarked, and a job is born. 
Now detailed planning begins. This includes selection of standards, calcula- 
tion of needs (men, money, materials, and machinery), preparing specifica- 
tions, on-the-ground surveys, inviting bids, and assignment of work crews, 
supervisory elements, and equipment. Work begins. 
This procedure varies somewhat when projects are contracted. In that event, 
contracts are prepared, negotiated, and executed. In either case—force 
account or contract work—subsequent activity in the form of supervision and 
inspection is necessary. 
Engineering practices and skills are needed in the performance of most forest 
work. Engineers frequently have the interesting and stimulating opportunity 
to practically live with a job from inception to completion. 
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