Education & Resources

Become an Arborist


Earning an ISA credential is a voluntary undertaking that showcases your expertise and dedication in tree care. It signifies that you possess the necessary knowledge and skills to care for trees properly and reflects your commitment to your profession and community. ISA credential holders value continued education to enhance their expertise and advance their careers.

The tree care industry has seen rapid growth over the past decade, requiring substantial knowledge to perform at the highest level. Displaying your ISA credential helps consumers recognize you as a knowledgeable and experienced tree care professional committed to the proper maintenance of their trees. 

Added Benefits:

Already certified? To view your Continuing Education Unit (CEU) status or renew your certification, please log in to the ISA site. As a credential holder, you already have a profile with ISA.

Here are some reasons why you might consider taking the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)







Additionally, consider your specific professional goals and whether the TRAQ qualification aligns with your career path in arboriculture or a related field.


Species Valuation List

A big thanks goes out to Dr. Bill Fountain for providing the following updated

species valuation list for Kentucky:

Click here for the valuations by botanical name 

Click here for valuations by percent group

Guide to Landscape Appraisal of Tree Species in Kentucky Landscapes

Qualified green industry professionals are often called upon to determine monetary values for landscapes trees. This may occur as a result of intentional or unintentional damage caused by another individual, insurance claims, or condemnation of a property by imminent domain. This valuation is determined by considering four factors:


Species Valuation List

Informational  Articles

Drought? Don't forget the trees!

Online Resources

International Society of Arboriculture ( ISA )

Tree Care Industry Association ( TCIA )

Better Business Bureau ( BBB )

Tree Care Tips – practical information for the homeowner

Tree Database – US Forest Service list of trees with common and Latin names

Tree Benefit Calculator – calculate the estimated value of your trees

Tree Climbers International – recreational tree climbing

The Tree Fund - organization that works to sustain the world’s urban forests by providing funding for scholarships, scientific research, and education programs related to arboriculture and urban forestry

Knots - all about knots

Tree Buzz – arborists discussion forum

Sherrill Tree – arborist supply catalogue

Anchor Bridge Ropeworks – rope splicing

Knot and Rope Supply - rope retailer

Tree Stuff  - equipment for professional arborists