An arborist is a tree care professional who has gained the technical expertise to correctly and efficiently take care of trees and other woody plants. They are called upon to evaluate the condition of a tree, make recommendations for its care, and then provide services needed such as pruning, fertilization, pest and disease control.
They typically work for a company that provides services to public or private entities. Depending on the nature of their work, arborists can work in urban areas or forests.
Their job is to keep the city’s trees healthy and maintain their aesthetic value while avoiding damage to property or safety hazards. They may also have to climb and remove heavy branches if necessary.
These professionals have a variety of skills, including problem-solving, research, and teamwork. They use their knowledge of horticulture and environmental science to diagnose and treat tree health issues, according to the International Society of Arboriculture.
Most arborists have degrees in a related field, such as forestry or landscape architecture. They often pursue certification by the ISA, an international organization.
A career as an arborist can be both exciting and challenging. It requires the ability to work outdoors in all seasons, as well as the strength and stamina to remove large limbs without damaging the surrounding area.
Many arborists have the opportunity to complete a training program or apprenticeship before they begin working full time. This can be a great way to learn the skills and expertise necessary to succeed in their careers.
The work of an arborist is extremely important to the overall well-being of a community. It helps to increase property values, cool streets and yards in the summer, absorb carbon dioxide, and reduce crime rates.
An arborist also helps to contain pests and diseases that can threaten the overall health of the city’s trees. This can prevent a horticultural pandemic from occurring, and it can help to preserve the beauty of the natural landscape.
They also need to know how to safely work with heavy machinery, such as ladders and cutting tools. They also need to be familiar with safety regulations, which vary by region and by the type of work they do.
A typical day for an arborist involves climbing or lowering tree branches into place, operating a chain saw and using other hand tools. They also must be familiar with different types of rigging equipment that helps to hold heavy branches and keep them in place.
Their job often involves working in a team with other employees, so it’s essential that they have the ability to communicate clearly and work together with confidence. This is especially true when they have to perform complicated tasks, such as removing dead or diseased branches.
Some people choose to work as an arborist because of the aesthetically pleasing effect trees can have on a landscape. This can be especially important in urban settings, where tree-lined streets are a draw for tourists and families.