What is an Arborist?

ArboristThere are many professions that work with trees, including loggers and foresters. However, not many people know of the profession, nor what it is they do.

An arborist is someone who practices arboriculture, which is the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, shrubs, and other perennial woody plants. So where some professions might just cut down the tree, an Arborist will focus on keeping them healthy and safe.

There are many different ways an Arborist can conduct their job as well. For instance, some may work near electrical lines, in which additional training is required. To do this, they need to be a qualified line clearance arborist or utility arborists. When that’s done, they go through and make sure there is a safe distance between the trees and the power lines depending on how much voltage is running through the lines.

Their work involves very large trees and ecological communities, which requires monitoring and treatment to make sure trees are safe for property owners and up to community standards. Part of this process could include planting, transplanting, pruning, and removing hazardous vegetation.

In addition, arborists also offer consulting. This consists of them coming out and taking a look at a tree to see if it is damaged or poses a threat if there is a storm or natural disaster. They can also be used as a consult once the storm has passed as well.

To become a certified arborist, you need to have over three years of documented and verified experience in the field as well as passed the International Society of Arboriculture’s test. There is also college based training for anyone looking to go into straight out of school.

Big Foot Tree Service is a tree cutting service offering tree trimming, removal and stump removal throughout the Northern New Jersey area. If you would like more information, call us at 973-885-8000 today!