What Does an Arborist Do?

Arborists are trained tree care specialists who have the knowledge, skills and equipment to help trees grow healthy and strong. They can diagnose problems and treat them using a variety of treatments and techniques, including pruning, trimming, crown raising and removal, fertilization, insect control and more. They can also provide planting and transplanting guidance, risk assessment services, tree appraisals for insurance claims or property transactions, preservation planning for old or new construction sites, and urban forestry management.

An arborist should be licensed, insured, and have specialized equipment. Reputable companies will charge a fair market rate, so beware of exceptionally low estimates. This could indicate a lack of training, experience, or quality of work. Look for an arborist who has membership in professional organizations and a commitment to ongoing education.

Working as an arborist is physically demanding. It involves long periods of standing or climbing, and exposure to sunlight, wind, rain, snow, ice, and other weather conditions. Arborists may also be exposed to pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and other chemicals used in the field. They need to wear protective gear such as hard hats, gloves, and chaps. Because they work with power tools and heavy machinery, the job also poses some safety risks. Arborists often drive truck-mounted lifts and use saws that run on gasoline, battery, or electricity, so they must maintain a high level of vehicle and machine maintenance.

In addition to identifying and caring for individual trees, arborists oversee large-scale landscapes, golf courses, parks, and public gardens. They must understand the environmental impact of their decisions, as well as the cultural and aesthetic values of various species of trees. They are responsible for the installation, care, and maintenance of trees and shrubs around structures and buildings, and they often consult with architects, engineers, and landscapers.

A certified arborist has a minimum of three years of full-time work experience and has passed four exams from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). These include Tree Climbing, Tree Anatomy, Tree Identification, and Tree Health Management. Additional exam options allow an arborist to specialize in areas such as municipal and utility arboriculture, and plant health care.

While tree removal is a last resort, sometimes it becomes necessary. A qualified arborist knows how to remove a tree safely and efficiently, without causing damage to nearby property or harming people. An experienced arborist can tell if a tree can be saved instead of removed, which will save you money and ensure that your trees are properly cared for.

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