What is an Arborist?
Ar ~ bor ~ ist (-ist) n. An Arborist is a professional who is trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaning trees and other woody plants.
The title "ARBORIST" refers to a person who has gained the technical competence to correctly and efficiently care for trees and other woody plants. Arborists are generally called upon to evaluate the condition of trees, make recommendations for their care, and then provide services needed such as pruning, fertilization, and insect and disease control. Above all, the arborist is a highly qualified professional who recognizes his or her responsibility to maintain the considerable value trees can add to life and property.
When To Hire an Arborist
- TREE PRUNING - Arborists can determine what type of pruning is best for the individual tree to maintain its health and improve its appearance and safety. Also, if pruning requires a ladder and a chainsaw, hire a professional.
- TREE REMOVAL - Arborists can help determine whether or not a tree should be removed, though usually this is a last resort. Arborists have the skills and equipment to safely and efficiently remove trees. Tree removal is dangerous and should be done by a tree care professional.
- EMERGENCY TREE CARE - Storms can cause major damage to limbs or entire trees. These trees need to be removed or trimmed to lessen the long-term damage to the tree and surrounding property. This is dangerous work and an arborist should be hired to perform this job safely.
- PLANTING - Planting the right tree in the right place is important for the long term health of the tree. Arborists can recommend the appropriate tree for the desired location and assist in proper planting.
There are many other services that arborists provide when necessary such as fertilization, insect control, cabling, aeration, and lightning protection. Consulting with an arborist and establishing a plant health care plan will help determine when these services are necessary.
See our list of NHAA Certified Arborists.
Money spent on hiring an arborist is well worth it.
“Many tree care services can be dangerous and paying a professional may cost you less than a trip to the emergency room,” states Eric Duchinsky, ISA Director of Membership and Public Relations.
Why Choose a Consulting Arborist?
According to the ASCA, Consulting Arborists do the following:
- provide expert witness testimony in cases involving damage or injury related to trees
- conduct appraisals of tree value in property insurance claims
- evaluate the environmental impact of land development
- guide the long-term planning for placement and maintenance of trees
- offer valuable information about the preservation of existing trees
- inspect plant material
- educate clients about the preservation of existing trees
- counsel homeowners on the evaluation, planning and preservation of trees
ASCA Registered Consulting Arborists provide these additional services:
- Hazard Tree Assessments and Survey
- Expert Witness and Litigation
- Tree, Landscape, and Nursery Appraisals
- Tree and Plant Inventories
- Tree Protection for Construction Projects
- Forensic Investigation
- Tree Management for Arboreta, Golf Courses, and Nurseries
- Disaster Mitigation
- Diagnosis, Appraisal, and Evaluation of Arboricultural Issues
To find an ISA Certified Arborist in your area, visit Trees Are Good.
To find an ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist in your area, visit ASCA Consultants.
To find an NH Arborists Association Certified Arborist in your area, see our list of New Hampshire Arborists.