Credentials Types of credentials ISA-certified arborist. A certified arborist is a person trained in the art and science of planting and maintaining individual trees. International Arboricultural Society certified arborists have a minimum of three years of full-time experience working in the professional tree care industry, follow a code of ethics to ensure the reliability of their work, and have passed an arboriculture exam or have a degree in arboriculture. forestry, landscape architecture or horticulture.
Obtaining the certification demonstrates that the arborist is an expert and experienced tree care professional. Arbolists are responsible for maintaining trees and shrubs on public or private property. This maintenance includes monitoring the health and appearance of plants, as well as addressing the safety hazards that plants may pose to humans. Organizations that employ arbolists include golf courses, parks, universities, and utilities, as well as landscaping companies that serve homeowners.
So what does it take to be an arborist? A degree is not required, but it can be useful, and certification is recommended. The International Society for Arboriculture (ISA) offers an arboricultural certification program (ACP), which includes a 220-question, 3.5-hour multiple-choice test, with questions on soil management, safe working practices, tree biology, pruning, urban forestry and tree protection, among others. The ISA certification program provides recognition of one's professional knowledge by its peers. As an ISA-certified arborist with a proven level of knowledge in tree care, you'll promote yourself and your business.
When you tell someone you're an ISA-certified arborist, they can be sure that you've earned an industry-set standard of knowledge. The ISA, or International Society for Arboriculture, is an organization that is committed to educating the public about the benefits of trees. In addition to education, public outreach and oversight of professional arborist certification, the ISA also emphasizes research and participation in sustainability practices related to trees and the environment. The ISA maintains regional and international chapters, and is led by a board of directors made up of members from around the world.
When you have a sick tree or need to move, trim, or completely remove a tree, consulting an International Society for Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist can help you make the best decisions for your situation. Since tree care can be hazardous work, you also won't know if your tree surgeon has received proper training in safety procedures, unless you can prove that you are also an ISA-certified arborist.
