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:
Informed Choices: Your credential enables the public and government officials to make informed decisions based on your demonstrated knowledge and advanced training.
Professional Development: The process of earning and maintaining your credential encourages ongoing professional growth.
Employer Confidence: Employers view credentials as valuable for training existing staff and selecting new employees.
Career Advancement: Holding an ISA credential can lead to increased income and open doors to new professional opportunities.
Competitive Edge: Credentials distinguish you from the competition, giving you an advantage in today’s market.
Winning Contracts: When multiple bids are placed for the same job, your ISA credentials can be the deciding factor in securing the contract. For the job done right, hire the right people!
Take the steps today to become an ISA-certified arborist.
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)
Professional Development: TRAQ provides a comprehensive and standardized training program for individuals involved in tree risk assessment. Completing the course can enhance your professional skills and knowledge in the field.
Credibility: By earning the TRAQ qualification, you demonstrate to clients, employers, and colleagues that you have acquired a high level of expertise in tree risk assessment. This can enhance your credibility in the industry.
Risk Management: Understanding and assessing tree risk is crucial for managing urban and natural environments. TRAQ equips you with the skills to identify and evaluate potential risks associated with trees, aiding in effective risk management strategies.
Industry Standards: The TRAQ program is based on industry standards and best practices. Staying updated with these standards is important for professionals working in arboriculture and urban forestry.
ISA Certification: The TRAQ program is affiliated with the International Society of Arboriculture, a respected organization in the field. ISA certification can open up new opportunities and networking possibilities within the arboriculture community.
Legal and Ethical Considerations: Understanding tree risk is not only essential for the health of trees but also for mitigating potential legal issues. TRAQ training covers legal and ethical considerations related to tree risk assessment.
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
size
(trunk diameter measured at 4.5 feet above the ground)
condition (i.e. vigor, vitality, habit, etc.)
aesthetic and environmental contributions to the landscape
Informational Articles
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