Hiring young workers can be an effective way to address labor needs, but forestry employers should understand that federal and state laws place significant restrictions on the work employees under age 18 may perform. Before hiring a minor, employers should familiarize themselves with those requirements to ensure they remain compliant while making informed staffing decisions. The federal government generally defines the youth labor force as individuals between the ages of 16 and 24. Under federal employment law, however, workers under age 18 are subject to additional protections that do not apply to older members of that group. Many forestry occupations are considered particularly hazardous under regulations administered by the U.S. Department of Labor. States may also impose their own requirements governing the employment of minors, so employers should review both federal and applicable state laws before hiring a worker under age 18.