What Is an Arborist?
An arborist is a professional who is trained and experienced in tree care. They can help you maintain the health of your trees and shrubs by providing pruning, trimming, removal, fertilization, pest control, and other services. These professionals also provide emergency tree services and can plant new trees for your property.
How to Become an Arborist
To become an arborist, you must obtain a degree in arboriculture, horticulture, forest science, or landscape architecture. You must also complete a professional certification program. A certification will give you credibility as an arborist and show that you are knowledgeable about your profession.
ISA Certified Arborist
The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a non-profit organization that supports the advancement of arboriculture through research, education, and professional development. They offer online courses and a professional certification program for arborists.
Arborists are also required to complete a professional training course that covers topics like tree pruning, tree health, and safety. They may also need to attend an apprenticeship or internship to gain experience in the field.
Job Opportunities for Arborists
As an arborist, you can find employment at landscaping and tree removal companies, government agencies, and private organizations. You can also find employment as a consultant for homeowners and businesses.
An arborist typically earns a salary of around 76,723 dollars per year. Their salary varies depending on the type of employer they work for, their experience level, and the geographic area where they are working.
Career Outlook for Arborists
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the number of jobs for conservation scientists and foresters will grow by 7% by 2030. About 4000 openings are projected each year, on average, for these professions.
Generally, an arborist works outdoors and needs to be comfortable with physical exertion in various weather conditions. It is also important for an arborist to be able to communicate effectively with clients.
A good arborist should be able to provide clients with information about their job in advance of it being performed, such as the nature of the work and how it will benefit the tree. This can make a client feel more confident in the process.
They should also be available on the day of the work to provide additional assistance if the job is complicated or requires ongoing support. This is especially important when the job involves a large tree or other heavy object.
It is crucial for an arborist to have the right equipment and safety gear, including a ladder, a rope, and other necessary equipment. This ensures that the person is able to get to the top of a tree safely and efficiently.
The ISA also offers an online tree-care academy for those who are interested in learning more about the industry. They can also check for a CTSP (Certified Tree Care Safety Professional) certification to show they are dedicated to the industry and follow a set of safety standards.
It is important to choose an arborist who has experience in your region and specializes in the type of tree you have. This will allow them to know how to treat your tree and reduce the risk of future problems.