Is becoming an arborist right for me?
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How to become an Arborist
Becoming an arborist requires both practical experience working with trees, as well as formal education. An arborist can receive on the job training from tree care companies, nurseries, municipalities, and landscaping companies. While it is not always a requirement, some employers will request that their employees receive ISA (International Society of Aboriculture) certification.
Before applying to an arboriculture program, students may need to have work experience and/or an associate or bachelor’s degree in a subject related to arboriculture, such as horticulture or forestry. Arboriculture programs will list the prerequisites required before students can be accepted.
Programs in arboriculture cover topics such as tree cultivation, care, and management. They also cover disease identification and prevention, invasive species removal, pruning, planting, transplantation, and structural support. Students in this program also learn how to safely use harnesses, ropes, and various climbing equipment.