What is an ISA Certified Arborist?

ISA Certified Arborist:

An ISA Certified Arborist is a professional who has extensive knowledge and skill in tree care. They are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), a professional organization that promotes the care and preservation of trees. To become certified, an arborist must pass a rigorous exam that covers all aspects of tree care, from pruning and maintenance to disease and pest management. They must also adhere to a strict code of ethics and continue their education to maintain their certification.

Hiring an ISA Certified Arborist can benefit your trees in many ways. They have the expertise to properly care for your trees, ensuring their health and longevity. They can identify and diagnose tree problems, recommend appropriate treatments, and perform necessary maintenance, such as pruning and fertilization. This can ultimately save you time and money by preventing costly tree removals and replacements.

Additionally, an ISA Certified Arborist has specialized training and equipment for safe tree access, including tree climbing, bucket trucks, and cranes. They also have a deep understanding of tree biology and structure, allowing them to make informed decisions about the best course of action for your trees.

In contrast, a "tree guy" may not have the same level of training or experience as an ISA Certified Arborist. They may not be up-to-date on the latest industry standards or best practices and may not have the necessary equipment or expertise to safely care for your trees. They may also have a vested interest in selling you unnecessary services or products rather than providing the best care for your trees.

Overall, hiring an ISA Certified Arborist can ensure the health and safety of your trees while providing peace of mind that you are working with a knowledgeable and trustworthy professional.

Tree Risk Assessment Qualified:

A Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) is a professional certification program offered by the ISA that provides specialized training and credentialing in tree risk assessment. TRAQ teaches arborists how to use a standardized process for assessing tree risk, including identifying potential defects, analyzing the likelihood of failure, and assessing the potential consequences of failure. The program also teaches arborists how to develop mitigation options to reduce risk.

Hiring an ISA Certified Arborist with a TRAQ credential provides several benefits. First, it ensures that the arborist has received specialized training and has demonstrated a level of knowledge and expertise in tree risk assessment. This can help property owners make informed decisions about their trees and reduce the risk of property damage or personal injury caused by tree failure. Second, TRAQ credentials must be renewed every five years, which means that arborists with this certification must stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and best practices.

ISA Certified Arborists with TRAQ credentials also have access to specialized equipment and techniques for tree assessment and safe tree access. This can include climbing equipment such as ropes, harnesses, and pulleys, as well as tools like resistograph drills and sonic tomography devices that can help assess the internal structure of trees. By using these specialized tools and techniques, arborists can more accurately assess tree risk and develop effective mitigation strategies.