Foresters are officers who protect and manage the woodlands. They also get engaged in forest land and vegetation preservation projects to improve the worthiness of the woods. On the other hand, Forest Range Officers are those who are concerned with safeguarding the forest resources and the life of the people living in forests. As part of their profession, these officers have to patrol the forest areas daily to make certain that the woodlands are safe and secure. There are many difference between Foresters and Forest Range Officers regarding job profile and other features.

Foresters

To become an Indian Forester, aspirants have to clear the Forest Officers’ exam conducted by the UPSC. This exam is carried out as and when the vacancies comes up. In their daily affairs, Foresters execute an array of duties. This includes supervising the fire and insect control activities, removing smashed or diseased trees that obstruct the growth of the contiguous trees in the forest and so on. They also implement reforestation projects to rejuvenate the wood lands, which are ruined due to the over-exploitation of natural resources, vermin, forest fire and natural calamities. Foresters mostly work with Forestry department, local jungle management agencies, Environment protection societies, and so on. Some of them also work in public or private wood pulp industries, paper-manufacturing corporations and so on. After entering into this field, foresters can expect salaries of around Rs. 15000/- per month.

Forest Range Officers

Aspirants who have studied the Bachelors’ degree program in Forestry or Natural Resource Management can become Forest Range Officers by clearing the FRO test conducted by the Public Service Commission. Only Indian citizens and persons having domicile of a State can apply for the FRO test in the State. These Officers will help to safeguard a particular segment of the public woodlands. Only those who love the woods and the nature can enjoy working as a Forest Ranger. Indian Forest Rangers can draw a salary of around Rs. 11000/- per month.

Key differentiators between Foresters and Forest Range Officers

The Central Government appoints Foresters in a country whereas Forest Range Officers are appointed by the State Governments.

In India, UPSC conducts the Foresters exam whereas the PSC of each State conducts the Forest Range Officers’ exam.

Comparing foresters with Forest Range Officers, Foresters is a senior level designation.

Although Foresters and Forest Range Officers work in the jungles, their area of involvement, when concerned with their profession varies to a larger extent.