Established in 1900 by Gifford Pinchot, considered to be America's first scientifically trained forester, the Society of American Foresters (SAF) is a scientific and educational organization representing the forestry profession in the United States. With a membership of over 18,700 in 1997, it is the largest professional society for foresters in the world. SAF's mission is to "advance the science, education, technology, and practice of forestry; to enhance the competency of its members; to establish professional excellence; and to use the knowledge, skills, and conservation ethic of the profession to ensure the continued health and use of forest ecosystems and the present and future availability of forest resources to benefit society." Although the focus of this organization is on forestry, the SAF addresses issues and concerns of a variety of natural resource professionals.

To be a professional member of SAF, one must hold a bachelor's...