Forestry program helps clients find a path forward

When Jermaine began his probation in 2023, he didn’t expect to find a promising career in tree care as a result. The 20-year-old Minneapolis resident was facing employment obstacles when his probation officer recommended him for a new forestry job training program through the Department of Community Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCCR). Launched in February 2023, the Productive Day forestry pathway is designed for adults on probation or parole who want to learn new job skills. Guided by staff from the Client and Community Restoration division, participants gain experience in tree care while also earning an hourly stipend.

Along with instruction from certified arborists, Jermaine and his program peers learned the gamut of urban forestry skills—from cutting techniques, to planting and pruning, to operating and maintaining equipment, to identifying tree species, disease and pests. He also earned certifications in CPR, tree inspection and chainsaw safety.

“The program wasn’t easy, but over time, I got better and ended up liking it,” said Jermaine, who received more than 600 hours of combined classroom and on-the-job experience.

Skills in demand

The forestry pathway helps clients under supervision gain the experience they need for meaningful employment and a livable wage. In addition to industry-specific skills, participants are also able to develop their soft skills.

“It’s the same group that shows up every day, and they learn how to be a part of a team, how to communicate and how to take directions,” said Logan Futterer, Productive Day program manager.

Construction workers are always in high demand—and the same holds true for tree care professionals.

Due to the multiple benefits that trees and forests provide, the county has committed to planting 1 million trees by 2030, and has received numerous grants to plant, remove and replace trees and other plants on both public and private property. “Many tree companies are a year behind with all the work they have right now,” said Dustin Ellis, community forestry supervisor. “We’ve also heard from residents they want more local tree care companies, with crew members who live in and around the neighborhoods they work in.”

Leveling the playing field 

Jermaine started his training with a large-scale reforestation project at Ford Park in Minnetonka. He and fellow crew members removed ash trees and invasive buckthorn in the winter and came back in the spring to plant new trees. He also helped with tree removal, planting and trail maintenance for Three Rivers Park District.

“The program gives individuals an opportunity that they maybe haven’t gotten before,” said Ellis. “It helps level the playing field, so they aren’t starting behind everyone else.”

Thanks to his hard work and commitment, Jermaine is starting his career path on the right foot. He graduated from the program this past summer and already landed a job: he is now working as a seasonal forester with Hennepin County Environment and Energy.

“As long as you are dedicated, the program is a big help,” said Jermaine. “I look forward to the new beginning.”

In collaboration with DOCCR, forestry pathway partners include Hennepin County Environment and Energy, Three Rivers Park District, the City of Minnetonka, the City of Mound, the Hennepin County Railroad Authority, and Tree Trust.