Farming, Fishing, & Forestry

Farming is a very good industry for people who like to work outside with plants and animals. As a farmer you could work on farm, ranch, nursery, slaughterhouse and more. People in this field grow the crops like fruits, nuts, fibers and grains, just to name a few, that the country depends on for food, clothing and fuel. Some farmers also breed animals like horses, cows, sheep, pigs and chickens to provide goods for the food industry and clothing industry.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics does not predict a change in the number of jobs in the next few years, but jobs are constantly available as farmers leave the industry for higher wages and jobs with fewer physical demands. The hourly wage of farmers ranges from $8.64 to $13.02 an hour.

Those in the fishing industry operate fishing boats to catch, trap and fish for marine life for the food industry, fishing bait and other uses. Positions include fishing boat captain, first mate and boatswain. Fisherman are also employed by recreational agencies to assist people who like to go fishing for fun.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a slight decrease in employment opportunities in the fishing industry. The average salary for a fisherman is $27,950 but some make as much as $45,000.

If you have a passion for nature, you would probably make a good forest worker. People with this career work hard to maintain forests and develop new ones. They plant seeds, combat insect infestations, tree diseases and soil erosion. Some forest workers are employed by nurseries and focus on seedlings, roots, plant development and the condition of foliage.

Job growth in this field is expected to grow, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Forest workers can earn up to $20 an hour.