It is the most common question I get when I am out in the world being a person. Ya know, at a game, in line at the bank, (although, I think I am the only person in Atlanta that still does this) or at the neighborhood brewery. What is an Arborist? A person that works with trees. That is the short answer. BUT not the complete answer. It is like saying, “I am a nurse.” WELL.. what kind? WHAT DO YOU DO? Some Arborist are tree climbers and use that term to describe themselves, but are not certified. There are degrees of Arborists and you can go here to learn all about how that works and even to check someone’s credentials or to find an Arborist in your hometown.
The ISA is the group that certifies all the Certified Arborist in the world. So, Always ask if someone is Certified. NOW, I have met many great tree men and women that are not certified but GREAT tree folks, but the best way to know that you are working with an educated, ethical Arborist is to use one that is Certified.
Here is what I, as a Certified Arborist gets to do for a living.. (yes GETS to) I go out and assess trees, either 1 tree in-depth, or groups of trees on the fly. Still lost? Ok. you are going to buy a house and it has 40 huge trees on 3 acres. You call someone to come tell you what you are getting into with this mini urban forest you are about to purchase.. and I come out and help you with it. I tell you what needs to be pruned, removed and even treated for insects or disease. Say there is 1 specific tree that really worries me so that one needs its own assessment, and maybe even to have a resistograph test (drill the tree to check the resistance, or strength, of a tree or part of a tree.)
I also work with builders and land planners of all scales work with trees in a safe manner (for the trees) so that they can survive construction. I also work with homeowners when they are getting a new landscape or deck to make sure the trees stay safe. I often write prescriptions for trees. I have to decide how to best use all the tools in the toolbox to keep a tree alive. Which sounds easy but not with all the factors involved.
I also will come to you and look at your sick tree and help you save it. Sometimes, I am the one that has to tell you that the tree is past saving.
I love what I do. I love meeting people and hearing their stories, I love seeing old trees and meeting pets, more dogs than cats for sure, and sometimes the occasional bird, turtle, or lizard. I am a lucky girl.