Careers & Salaries in Environmental Geography

Zoologists work with and study animals.

Environmental geography is a field that encompasses more than just geography -- careers in this area may allow you to study and improve conditions for wildlife or even conserve natural resources. Geographers study the earth and the environment as a whole, while specialists such as foresters study and analyze plant life to ensure that it grows to be healthy. If you love the outdoors, a career in environmental geography gives you options.

Conservationists

Conservation scientists do work that helps us utilize the environment without damaging or destroying it. They study the soil, foliage and wildlife of an area to determine the habitat's needs. They then instruct people such as farmers and agricultural developers, like miners and loggers, on how to conduct their work so that it has a minimal negative effect on the environment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2010, the mean annual wage for conservation scientists was $61,200.

Geographers

Geographers collect and analyze data pertaining to the environment. They study all aspects of the environment, such as soils and plants, as well as the interaction between animals and humans with their respective environments. Geographers also research the human population in general -- specifically, how humans are grouped within regions. For example, one may study the economic activities of humans within a certain geographical area. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2010, the mean annual wage for geographers was $72,890.

Wildlife Biologists

Careers in zoology and wildlife biology fall under the category of environmental geography, as zoologists and wildlife biologists study and manage animals and wildlife in their natural habitat. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2010, the mean annual wage for zoologists was $61,660, or approximately $27.61 per hour. For wildlife technicians that aid with the collection of raw data, the work is seasonal and the pay varies, but it averages between $8 and $10 an hour.

Foresters

When humans interfere with the natural progress of a forest, foresters manage the process to ensure that nature is being used responsibly and effectively. The collect and analyze data on trees and create plans to foster their growth while utilizing them as natural resources. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, as of 2009, the average salary of foresters was $55,220.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2010, Conservation Scientists
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2010, Geographers
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2010, Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
• College Board: Wildlife Technicians
• College Board: Foresters and Forestry Technicians