There are many people working in the tree care industry. Unfortunately, too many of them have little or no training and therefore recommend and carry out bad tree work. ISA offers the ISA Certified Arborists program to ensure a high standard of professionalism in tree care.
ISA Certified Arborists have undertaken and passed a rigorous study and examination process. They are also required to continue their education in order to remain ISA Certified.
Employing an ISA Certified Arborist gives you peace of mind that the person working on your trees knows their business.
You should ask questions before employing any person, including Certified Arborists, to work on your trees. Ask for references, proof of qualifications and insurance.
Q: What is an arborist?
- An arborist is a specialist in the care and management of individual trees.
- Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care.
- Hiring an arborist is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Proper tree care is an investment that can lead to substantial returns. Well cared-for trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability.
- Pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, is dangerous work. Tree work should only be done by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees.
Q: What is the difference between an arborist and a ISA Certified Arborist?
- Numerous qualifications and qualification levels exist. And once completed no no-going commitment is required to keep that qualification.
- ISA Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through at least three years of experience and have passed a comprehensive examination.
- They are also required to continue their education in order to maintain their certification, ensuring their knowledge is updated on the latest arboriculture techniques.
- ISA Arborist Certification is a non-governmental voluntary process that operates without mandate of law. It is an internal self-regulating device administered by the International Society of Arboriculture, and therefore, cannot guarantee or assure the quality of performance.
- Certification provides a measurable assessment of an individual’s knowledge and competence required to provide proper tree care.
Information for Certified Arborists
CEUs
To keep your Certified status it is important that you keep earning CEUs. For information on how to earn CEUs or checking your current status visit the ISA CEUs web page. For particular questions on CEUs in Australia e-mail the Australian Certification Liaison Officer.See coming events http://isaac.org.au for seminars and courses that attract CEUs.
Certification promotional materials
Promotional materials including stickers, patches, clothing can be purchased from the ISAAC. Contact the Administration Office for more information.
Links
ISA Web Page for promoting trees to the public. http://www.treesaregood.com