What does an arborist do?

What is an Arborist?

An arborist specializes in the care and maintenance of trees. Arborists are knowledgeable in tree biology and are trained in the proper techniques for planting, pruning, and removing trees. They also have expertise in diagnosing and treating tree diseases and pests. Arborists work in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and public spaces, such as parks and urban forests.

Arborists play a crucial role in maintaining the health and safety of trees. They can identify and remove hazardous trees, which can pose a threat to people and property. They also help to preserve the natural beauty of our surroundings by ensuring that trees are properly maintained and cared for. Arborists also play an important role in the protection of the environment, as trees are a critical component of ecosystems and help to mitigate the impacts of climate change. They may work with government agencies and conservation organizations to promote the preservation and restoration of natural forests and other ecosystems.

What does an Arborist do?

Trees are everywhere and provide people with many benefits. They offer shade, produce oxygen, and provide food. They keep streets and cities cool and prevent soil erosion. And just like a person, trees need proper care and nutrients to stay healthy. An arborist provides this kind of care.

Duties and Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities of arborists can vary depending on the type of work they perform and the organization they work for. However, some common duties and responsibilities of arborists include:

• Tree Care: Arborists are responsible for providing proper care to trees, including pruning and trimming to maintain healthy growth and shape, fertilizing to promote growth, and watering to maintain hydration. They also diagnose and treat diseases and pests that can harm the trees.
• Tree Planting: Arborists are responsible for selecting the right tree species for the specific location and climate, based on soil type, sun exposure, and other factors. They also provide advice on proper planting techniques to ensure the tree has the best chance of surviving and thriving.
• Tree Removal: Arborists may need to remove trees that pose a hazard to people or property, such as trees that are diseased, dead, or damaged. They use specialized equipment and techniques to safely and efficiently remove the tree and dispose of the debris.
• Tree Inspection: Arborists regularly inspect trees to identify any signs of disease, pests, or structural problems. They may use specialized equipment, such as resistographs or sonic tomography, to detect any internal decay or damage that is not visible from the outside.
• Consultation: Arborists provide advice and consultation to clients on a variety of tree-related issues, including selecting the right tree for a specific location, assessing the health of trees, and providing advice on tree care and maintenance.
• Risk Assessment: Arborists assess the risks associated with trees, including the likelihood of failure due to disease, pests, or structural issues, as well as the potential impact on people and property in the event of a tree failure.
• Tree Preservation: Arborists work to preserve trees in urban and suburban areas by providing proper care and protection. They may advise on the best practices for construction or other activities around trees to minimize damage, or they may use techniques such as bracing or cabling to support the tree's structure.
• Tree Climbing: Arborists use specialized equipment and techniques to climb trees and perform maintenance and inspection tasks, such as pruning or installing tree supports. Tree climbing requires specialized training and equipment, including ropes, harnesses, and safety gear.

Types of Arborists
There are various types of arborists, including:

• Certified Arborists: These are arborists who have been certified by a professional organization such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). They have passed a rigorous exam and have a minimum of three years of experience in the field.
• Consulting Arborists: These arborists provide expert advice and consultation services to clients who need help with their trees. They may also be called upon to conduct tree inventories, assess tree risks, and create management plans for trees.
• Climbing Arborists: These arborists are trained and skilled in the art of tree climbing. They use ropes, harnesses, and other specialized equipment to safely access and work in the canopy of trees.
• Utility Arborists: These arborists specialize in working with trees that are near power lines or other utilities. They are trained in techniques for safely pruning and removing trees in these sensitive areas.
• Tree Service Technicians: These arborists are responsible for performing a variety of tasks, such as pruning, planting, and removing trees. They are also trained in using specialized equipment and techniques to safely work with trees at various heights and in different environments.
• Urban Foresters: These arborists are responsible for managing trees and other vegetation in urban areas. They may work for a city or municipality, and their duties may include tree planting, pruning, and removal, as well as managing tree-related conflicts and issues.

What is the workplace of an Arborist like?

The workplace of an arborist can vary depending on their specific job duties and specialization. Many arborists work for tree care companies, landscaping firms, or municipal governments. In these settings, they may work both indoors and outdoors, depending on the season and weather conditions. They may spend their days pruning, planting, and removing trees, or they may be responsible for managing tree-related conflicts and issues.

Arborists who specialize in climbing may spend much of their time working in the canopy of trees, using ropes, harnesses, and other equipment to access and maneuver through the branches. This can be a physically demanding job that requires a high level of skill and attention to safety.

Arborists who work in urban forestry may spend much of their time driving between job sites, assessing tree health and risks, and working with community members to address tree-related issues. They may also work in parks and other public spaces, where they are responsible for maintaining the health and beauty of the trees and other vegetation.

Regardless of their specific job duties, all arborists must be prepared to work in a variety of weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and rain. They must also be comfortable working at heights and using power tools and other equipment. Safety is always a top priority for arborists, and they must be trained in the proper use of equipment and techniques to minimize the risk of injury or damage to property.