Overview:

An Arborist is responsible for the well-being of trees. They implement planting, growing, maintaining, and removal of trees. They can also be the point of contact for selling trees.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Climb trees to trim and or remove trees
• Collect data on the size, age, and health of trees
• Identify and determine health of tree species and prescribe needed care
• Identify detrimental insects or plant disease and eliminate them
• Operate a variety of mechanical equipment
• Prepare estimates for clients and potential customers
• If certified or under the supervision of a certified applicator will apply chemicals
• Successfully manage and protect forests in various stages of health

What education and training is required?

A bachelor’s degree in arboriculture, urban forestry, environmental conservation, plant science, horticulture, biology or related field is required.

To pursue a career as an Arborist:

The following high school courses are recommended; agricultural education, biology, botany, ecology, earth science, and geography.

Typical Employers:

Employed by greenhouses, nurseries, logging firms, landscaping companies, government agencies, residential communities, paper and packaging companies, or you may be self-employed.

Future Job Market/Outlook:

Depending on location the job market for arborist can be considered good.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations:

• Tree Care Industry Association
• American Nursery and Landscape Association
• Tree Care Industry Association
• National Arbor Day Foundation
• International Society of Arboriculture
• Professional Landscape Designers
• The Professional Landcare Network
• American Nurseryman
• Society of American Foresters