JOB REPORT / 19-1031 · 66 TASKS

Conservation Scientists.

Can AI do the work of Conservation Scientists?

Mostly it works alongside you. Here is what shifts, task by task.

YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS

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How many tasks do you use AI to assist with at work?

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The mark shows what’s typical for this job.

The parts of your job AI can already do most of:

Gather information from geographic information systems (GIS) databases…
Research stories regarding the area's natural history or environment
Compute design specifications for implementation of conservation practices, using…

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A guided certificate program in AI-assisted Conservation Scientists work. It covers the 60 AI-affected parts of your job and ends in a capstone a person reviews.

WHAT WE LOOKED AT

Your job, task by task.

60 of 66 tasks reviewed

This job has 66 core tasks. We went through 60 of them, one at a time.

Task by task, from the work Conservation Scientists actually do. How we describe AI use in each task is our own read of it, not a measurement of whether AI can replace the job.

TASK 01
Gather information from geographic information systems (GIS) databases or applications to formulate land use recommendations.
AI DOES
Queries GIS databases, spots patterns in spatial data, and drafts summary maps or reports
YOU DO
Apply field knowledge and community context to turn data into grounded recommendations
TASK 02
Research stories regarding the area's natural history or environment.
AI DOES
Searches databases, summarizes scientific papers, and drafts story outlines about local ecology and history
YOU DO
Verify facts on the ground and weave in personal field observations
TASK 03
Compute design specifications for implementation of conservation practices, using survey or field information, technical guides or engineering manuals.
AI DOES
Pulls formulas from engineering manuals, runs calculations, and drafts specification documents from survey data inputs
YOU DO
Verify field reality, apply site-specific judgment, and sign off on designs that affect land and water
TASK 04
Compute cost estimates of different conservation practices, based on needs of land users, maintenance requirements, or life expectancy of practices.
AI DOES
Pulls cost databases, builds spreadsheet models, and drafts estimate reports quickly
YOU DO
Visit the land, talk to users, and apply local knowledge to validate numbers
TASK 05
Enter local soil, water, or other environmental data into adaptive or Web-based decision tools to identify appropriate analyses or techniques.
AI DOES
Auto-fills forms, flags data errors, and suggests analysis options based on input values
YOU DO
Verify field data accuracy and apply local ecological knowledge to choose the right approach
TASK 06
Compile or interpret biodata to determine extent or type of wetlands or to aid in program formulation.
AI DOES
Searches databases, summarizes biodata trends, and flags wetland indicators in datasets
YOU DO
Apply field expertise and local ecological judgment to shape real conservation programs
TASK 07
Develop water conservation or harvest plans, using weather information systems, irrigation information management systems, or other sources of daily evapotranspiration (ET) data.
AI DOES
Aggregates ET and weather data, spots patterns, and drafts initial water budget calculations
YOU DO
Walk the land, talk to farmers, and make final calls on site-specific conservation trade-offs
TASK 08
Develop soil maps.
AI DOES
Analyzes remote sensing data and generates draft soil classification maps
YOU DO
Verify findings in the field and apply site-specific ecological knowledge
TASK 09
Review annual reports of counties, conservation districts, or watershed management organizations, certifying compliance with mandated reporting requirements.
AI DOES
Scans reports, flags missing sections, and checks data against required reporting criteria
YOU DO
Apply professional judgment and sign off on official compliance certification
TASK 10
Prepare brochures and write newspaper articles.
AI DOES
Drafts text, suggests layouts, checks grammar, and organizes nature facts
YOU DO
Add local stories, field observations, and community voice that readers trust
TASK 11
Compile and maintain official park photographic and information files.
AI DOES
Auto-tags photos by species or location, suggests file names, and drafts descriptive text
YOU DO
Verify accuracy of species IDs and decide which records truly matter for the park
TASK 12
Provide information, knowledge, expertise, or training to government agencies at all levels to solve water or soil management problems or to assure coordination of resource protection activities.
AI DOES
Summarizes research, drafts reports, and pulls together data on water and soil problems
YOU DO
Build relationships with agency staff and make judgment calls about local conditions
TASK 13
Analyze results of investigations to determine measures needed to maintain or restore proper soil management.
AI DOES
Scans soil data, spots trends, and suggests possible restoration options from research databases
YOU DO
Weigh site-specific conditions, stakeholder needs, and ecological trade-offs before recommending action
TASK 14
Plan and organize public events at the park.
AI DOES
Drafts event schedules, writes descriptions, and brainstorms activity ideas
YOU DO
Use your local knowledge and community relationships to make events actually work
TASK 15
Respond to complaints or questions on wetland jurisdiction, providing information or clarification.
AI DOES
Drafts response letters, summarizes wetland rules, and pulls relevant regulations fast
YOU DO
Apply site-specific knowledge and professional judgment to each unique complaint
TASK 16
Develop environmental educational programs and curricula for schools.
AI DOES
Drafts lesson outlines, suggests age-appropriate activities, and summarizes ecology research
YOU DO
Use your local knowledge and teaching instincts to shape programs that connect kids to your specific place
TASK 17
Study forage plants and their growth requirements to determine varieties best suited to particular range.
AI DOES
Searches databases, summarizes plant growth research, and compares species traits for a given climate or soil type
YOU DO
Walk the land, observe real conditions, and apply local knowledge no database captures
TASK 18
Plan and develop audio-visual devices for public programs.
AI DOES
Drafts narration scripts, suggests image and video ideas, and outlines program flow
YOU DO
Bring deep local nature knowledge and read what truly engages your audience
TASK 19
Plan soil management or conservation practices, such as crop rotation, reforestation, permanent vegetation, contour plowing, or terracing, to maintain soil or conserve water.
AI DOES
Summarizes soil science research, compares conservation methods, and drafts initial practice recommendations from data
YOU DO
Visit the land, read site conditions firsthand, and work with farmers and communities to build plans that actually fit
TASK 20
Apply principles of specialized fields of science, such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, or agriculture, to achieve conservation objectives.
AI DOES
Searches scientific literature, summarizes field-specific research, and flags data patterns from soil or vegetation reports
YOU DO
Walk the land, read local conditions, and adapt science to what you actually see and touch
TASK 21
Develop, conduct, or participate in surveys, studies, or investigations of various land uses to inform corrective action plans.
AI DOES
Analyzes land-use data, finds patterns in survey results, and drafts sections of corrective action plans
YOU DO
Go into the field, observe conditions firsthand, and apply local ecological knowledge to decisions
TASK 22
Coordinate or implement technical, financial, or administrative assistance programs for local government units to ensure efficient program implementation or timely responses to requests for assistance.
AI DOES
Drafts program documents, tracks requests, summarizes financial data, and flags deadlines
YOU DO
Build trust with local officials and make calls on messy, real-world situations
TASK 23
Offer advice to rangeland users on water management, forage production methods, and control of brush.
AI DOES
Drafts research-backed recommendations, summarizes forage and brush control options, and pulls regional data to support advice
YOU DO
Visit the land, read site-specific conditions, and build relationships with ranchers who need to trust your judgment
TASK 24
Review proposed wetland restoration easements or provide technical recommendations.
AI DOES
Summarizes easement documents, pulls relevant regulations, and drafts initial technical review frameworks
YOU DO
Visit the site, assess local hydrology and species needs, and sign off on recommendations
TASK 25
Study rangeland management practices and research range problems to provide sustained production of forage, livestock, and wildlife.
AI DOES
Searches research literature, summarizes studies, and helps analyze forage and wildlife data
YOU DO
Get outside, observe actual land conditions, and make judgment calls based on what you see and smell and touch
TASK 26
Develop technical standards and specifications used to manage, protect, and improve the natural resources of range lands and related grazing lands.
AI DOES
Drafts standard templates, summarizes research literature, and organizes data into structured frameworks
YOU DO
Apply on-the-ground ecological knowledge and adapt standards to local land conditions
TASK 27
Prepare and present illustrated lectures and interpretive talks about park features.
AI DOES
Drafts lecture scripts, suggests images, and organizes talking points about park features
YOU DO
Show up, read the crowd, and bring the park to life with your own stories and presence
TASK 28
Review or approve amendments to comprehensive local water plans or conservation district plans.
AI DOES
Summarizes plan changes, checks for missing sections, and flags regulatory conflicts
YOU DO
Apply local land knowledge and sign off with legal authority
TASK 29
Participate on work teams to plan, develop, or implement programs or policies for improving environmental habitats, wetlands, or groundwater or soil resources.
AI DOES
Drafts plans, summarizes research, organizes data, and suggests habitat restoration options
YOU DO
Bring local knowledge, build team trust, and make final calls on real-world tradeoffs
TASK 30
Advise land users, such as farmers or ranchers, on plans, problems, or alternative conservation solutions.
AI DOES
Drafts conservation plans, summarizes research, and suggests solutions based on land data
YOU DO
Build trust with land users and read the real-world conditions on the ground
TASK 31
Plan, organize and direct activities of seasonal staff members.
AI DOES
Drafts staff schedules, creates onboarding checklists, and suggests activity plans
YOU DO
Read your team's energy, handle conflicts, and adapt plans to real conditions on the ground
TASK 32
Develop new and improved instruments and techniques for activities, such as range reseeding.
AI DOES
Searches research, summarizes techniques, models seeding patterns, and drafts improvement ideas
YOU DO
Test ideas in the field and adapt tools to real soil, weather, and plant conditions
TASK 33
Regulate grazing, such as by issuing permits and checking for compliance with standards, and help ranchers plan and organize grazing systems to manage, improve, protect, and maximize the use of rangelands.
AI DOES
Drafts permit documents, tracks compliance records, and suggests grazing rotation plans based on land data
YOU DO
Walk the land, read real conditions, and build trust with ranchers face to face
TASK 34
Study grazing patterns to determine number and kind of livestock that can be most profitably grazed and to determine the best grazing seasons.
AI DOES
Analyzes historical grazing data, models carrying capacity, and summarizes research on grazing seasons
YOU DO
Walk the range yourself to read plant health, soil conditions, and local weather patterns
TASK 35
Tailor conservation plans to landowners' goals, such as livestock support, wildlife, or recreation.
AI DOES
Drafts conservation plan templates, summarizes best practices, and flags relevant regulations by region
YOU DO
Listen to the landowner, walk the land, and shape a plan that fits their real-life goals and values
TASK 36
Develop methods for protecting range from fire and rodent damage and for controlling poisonous plants.
AI DOES
Researches proven control methods, summarizes scientific literature, and drafts management plans
YOU DO
Walk the land, judge local conditions, and adapt plans to what you actually see on the ground
TASK 37
Take photographs and motion pictures for use in lectures and publications and to develop displays.
AI DOES
Edits photos, removes backgrounds, enhances lighting, and suggests the best images from a batch
YOU DO
Go outside, observe wildlife up close, and choose the right moment to capture
TASK 38
Initiate, schedule, or conduct annual audits or compliance checks of program implementation by local government.
AI DOES
Drafts audit templates, organizes compliance records, and summarizes findings from data
YOU DO
Show up in person, ask probing questions, and make context-based compliance judgments
TASK 39
Coordinate with federal land managers and other agencies and organizations to manage and protect rangelands.
AI DOES
Drafts communication plans, summarizes regulations, and organizes coordination schedules
YOU DO
Build trust and negotiate agreements across agencies face-to-face
TASK 40
Measure and assess vegetation resources for biological assessment companies, environmental impact statements, and rangeland monitoring programs.
AI DOES
Analyzes remote sensing data, summarizes vegetation trends, and drafts report sections
YOU DO
Walk the land, collect ground-truth samples, and apply local ecological judgment
TASK 41
Train staff on park programs.
AI DOES
Drafts training outlines, quizzes, and program guides
YOU DO
Lead live demos and coach staff in the field
TASK 42
Plan and direct construction and maintenance of range improvements, such as fencing, corrals, stock-watering reservoirs, and soil-erosion control structures.
AI DOES
Drafts project plans, summarizes design options, and helps estimate materials and costs
YOU DO
Walk the land, assess real conditions, and make safety and site calls in person
TASK 43
Construct historical, scientific, and nature visitor-center displays.
AI DOES
Drafts display text, summarizes scientific research, and suggests layout ideas
YOU DO
Handle physical construction, apply local ecological knowledge, and make creative design choices that fit the real space
TASK 44
Plan and implement revegetation of disturbed sites.
AI DOES
Suggests native seed mixes, restoration plans, and timing based on soil and climate data
YOU DO
Walk the land, read site conditions, and direct hands-on planting work
TASK 45
Interview specialists in desired fields to obtain and develop data for park information programs.
AI DOES
Drafts interview questions, suggests topic angles, and turns interview notes into program scripts or summaries
YOU DO
Build rapport with specialists and judge which insights will connect with park visitors
TASK 46
Provide visitor services, such as explaining regulations, answering visitor requests, needs and complaints, and providing information about the park and surrounding areas.
AI DOES
Drafts FAQs, pulls up park rules and local info, and suggests responses to common visitor questions
YOU DO
Read the visitor's mood, de-escalate complaints face-to-face, and use local knowledge built from being there
TASK 47
Develop or conduct environmental studies, such as plant material field trials or wildlife habitat impact studies.
AI DOES
Helps design study protocols, reviews past research, and analyzes collected field data
YOU DO
Go outside, observe conditions firsthand, and make judgment calls about what you see
TASK 48
Conduct fact-finding or mediation sessions among government units, landowners, or other agencies to resolve disputes.
AI DOES
Summarizes background info, flags key disagreements, and drafts talking points before sessions
YOU DO
Show up, listen, and build real trust between parties
TASK 49
Survey park to determine forest conditions and distribution and abundance of fauna and flora.
AI DOES
Helps identify species from photos, analyzes satellite or drone imagery, and processes survey data you collect
YOU DO
Walk the terrain, observe animal behavior, and use field experience to judge what data actually means
TASK 50
Monitor projects during or after construction to ensure projects conform to design specifications.
AI DOES
Analyzes photos, sensor data, and reports to flag potential issues
YOU DO
Visit the site and make judgment calls about what you actually see
TASK 51
Manage forage resources through fire, herbicide use, or revegetation to maintain a sustainable yield from the land.
AI DOES
Analyzes satellite imagery, models fire and herbicide plans, and suggests revegetation strategies based on land data
YOU DO
Walk the land, read real conditions, and make safety calls no screen can replace
TASK 52
Confer with park staff to determine subjects and schedules for park programs.
AI DOES
Drafts schedule templates, suggests program topics based on season or visitor data, and summarizes past program feedback
YOU DO
Show up to the conversation and build agreement with real people who know the park
TASK 53
Maintain soil stability and vegetation for non-grazing uses, such as wildlife habitats and outdoor recreation.
AI DOES
Analyzes satellite imagery, soil data, and vegetation reports to suggest management plans
YOU DO
Walk the land, make on-the-spot calls, and carry out physical restoration work
TASK 54
Mediate agreements among rangeland users and preservationists as to appropriate land use and management.
AI DOES
Researches land use data, summarizes stakeholder positions, and drafts agreement templates
YOU DO
Show up in person, listen carefully, and build trust between people who disagree
TASK 55
Develop or maintain working relationships with local government staff or board members.
AI DOES
Drafts outreach emails, meeting agendas, and talking points for government contacts
YOU DO
Show up in person and build genuine trust over time
TASK 56
Manage field offices or involve staff in cooperative ventures.
AI DOES
Drafts schedules, meeting agendas, and communication templates for staff coordination
YOU DO
Show up in person, build trust, and lead people through real decisions in the field
TASK 57SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Review grant applications or make funding recommendations.
AI DOES
Scores applications against standard criteria
YOU DO
Weigh mission fit and strategic value
About this analysis
34% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 58
Implement soil or water management techniques, such as nutrient management, erosion control, buffers, or filter strips, in accordance with conservation plans.
AI DOES
Helps plan layouts, pulls soil data, and suggests technique options based on site conditions
YOU DO
Go to the land, make judgment calls on terrain, and physically carry out the conservation work
TASK 59
Assist with operations of general facilities, such as visitor centers.
AI DOES
Answers common visitor questions via chatbot or helps draft signage and schedules
YOU DO
Show up, greet visitors warmly, and handle real-time situations in person
TASK 60SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Identify or recommend integrated weed and pest management (IPM) strategies, such as resistant plants, cultural or behavioral controls, soil amendments, insects, natural enemies, barriers, or pesticides.
AI DOES
Suggests IPM options based on pest and crop data
YOU DO
Judge what works for your specific conditions
About this analysis
25% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium

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AT A GLANCE

Occupation: Conservation Scientists
SOC code: 19-1031
Tasks reviewed: 60 of 66

How we assess

PAY & OUTLOOK

Compare pay by state

Median pay (national): $73,010 · BLS OEWS 2025
Median pay (Colorado): $84,820 · BLS OEWS 2025
Employed (national): 25,950
Employed in Colorado: 1,230
Job outlook: +3.4% by 2034 · ~2,500 openings/yr

Wages from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. National figures cover the United States. Job outlook is national.

How does this fit your work?

Earn a certificate in your job

Your job, task by task.

Gather information from geographic information systems (GIS) databases or applications to formulate land use recommendations.

Research stories regarding the area's natural history or environment.

Compute design specifications for implementation of conservation practices, using survey or field information, technical guides or engineering manuals.

Compute cost estimates of different conservation practices, based on needs of land users, maintenance requirements, or life expectancy of practices.

Enter local soil, water, or other environmental data into adaptive or Web-based decision tools to identify appropriate analyses or techniques.

Compile or interpret biodata to determine extent or type of wetlands or to aid in program formulation.

Develop water conservation or harvest plans, using weather information systems, irrigation information management systems, or other sources of daily evapotranspiration (ET) data.

Develop soil maps.

Review annual reports of counties, conservation districts, or watershed management organizations, certifying compliance with mandated reporting requirements.

Prepare brochures and write newspaper articles.

Compile and maintain official park photographic and information files.

Provide information, knowledge, expertise, or training to government agencies at all levels to solve water or soil management problems or to assure coordination of resource protection activities.

Analyze results of investigations to determine measures needed to maintain or restore proper soil management.

Plan and organize public events at the park.

Respond to complaints or questions on wetland jurisdiction, providing information or clarification.

Develop environmental educational programs and curricula for schools.

Study forage plants and their growth requirements to determine varieties best suited to particular range.

Plan and develop audio-visual devices for public programs.

Plan soil management or conservation practices, such as crop rotation, reforestation, permanent vegetation, contour plowing, or terracing, to maintain soil or conserve water.

Apply principles of specialized fields of science, such as agronomy, soil science, forestry, or agriculture, to achieve conservation objectives.

Develop, conduct, or participate in surveys, studies, or investigations of various land uses to inform corrective action plans.

Coordinate or implement technical, financial, or administrative assistance programs for local government units to ensure efficient program implementation or timely responses to requests for assistance.

Offer advice to rangeland users on water management, forage production methods, and control of brush.

Review proposed wetland restoration easements or provide technical recommendations.

Study rangeland management practices and research range problems to provide sustained production of forage, livestock, and wildlife.

Develop technical standards and specifications used to manage, protect, and improve the natural resources of range lands and related grazing lands.

Prepare and present illustrated lectures and interpretive talks about park features.

Review or approve amendments to comprehensive local water plans or conservation district plans.

Participate on work teams to plan, develop, or implement programs or policies for improving environmental habitats, wetlands, or groundwater or soil resources.

Advise land users, such as farmers or ranchers, on plans, problems, or alternative conservation solutions.

Plan, organize and direct activities of seasonal staff members.

Develop new and improved instruments and techniques for activities, such as range reseeding.

Regulate grazing, such as by issuing permits and checking for compliance with standards, and help ranchers plan and organize grazing systems to manage, improve, protect, and maximize the use of rangelands.

Study grazing patterns to determine number and kind of livestock that can be most profitably grazed and to determine the best grazing seasons.

Tailor conservation plans to landowners' goals, such as livestock support, wildlife, or recreation.

Develop methods for protecting range from fire and rodent damage and for controlling poisonous plants.

Take photographs and motion pictures for use in lectures and publications and to develop displays.

Initiate, schedule, or conduct annual audits or compliance checks of program implementation by local government.

Coordinate with federal land managers and other agencies and organizations to manage and protect rangelands.

Measure and assess vegetation resources for biological assessment companies, environmental impact statements, and rangeland monitoring programs.

Train staff on park programs.

Plan and direct construction and maintenance of range improvements, such as fencing, corrals, stock-watering reservoirs, and soil-erosion control structures.

Construct historical, scientific, and nature visitor-center displays.

Plan and implement revegetation of disturbed sites.

Interview specialists in desired fields to obtain and develop data for park information programs.

Provide visitor services, such as explaining regulations, answering visitor requests, needs and complaints, and providing information about the park and surrounding areas.

Develop or conduct environmental studies, such as plant material field trials or wildlife habitat impact studies.

Conduct fact-finding or mediation sessions among government units, landowners, or other agencies to resolve disputes.

Survey park to determine forest conditions and distribution and abundance of fauna and flora.

Monitor projects during or after construction to ensure projects conform to design specifications.

Manage forage resources through fire, herbicide use, or revegetation to maintain a sustainable yield from the land.

Confer with park staff to determine subjects and schedules for park programs.

Maintain soil stability and vegetation for non-grazing uses, such as wildlife habitats and outdoor recreation.

Mediate agreements among rangeland users and preservationists as to appropriate land use and management.

Develop or maintain working relationships with local government staff or board members.

Manage field offices or involve staff in cooperative ventures.

Review grant applications or make funding recommendations.

Implement soil or water management techniques, such as nutrient management, erosion control, buffers, or filter strips, in accordance with conservation plans.

Assist with operations of general facilities, such as visitor centers.

Identify or recommend integrated weed and pest management (IPM) strategies, such as resistant plants, cultural or behavioral controls, soil amendments, insects, natural enemies, barriers, or pesticides.

Practice AI.Use your judgment.

Practice AI.
Use your judgment.