Arborists Vs. Tree-Care Workers

What's the difference between an Arborist and a tree-care worker?  That's a pretty common question.  It's so common, in fact, that the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) has answered that question on its website:

Arborists are trained professionals that are knowledgeable and equipped to provide proper tree care. They are specially trained to provide a variety to services to maintain trees. 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.

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I asked Jeff what his definition of the differences are, and his answer was considerably shorter!

The ability to know and use science is what separates an Arborist from a tree care worker.

In short, Arborists have more training and are more rigorously tested.  They are assessed regularly and are required to maintain their certification with ongoing training.  Choosing an Arborist means you're getting better quality service!
Here at TreeMasters, our resident Tree Doctor, Jeff, is a registered consulting Arborist!  When you work with TreeMasters, you know that you're getting the best advice and the best tree-care.  We're making a better future for YOUR trees!

Rachel Judt has worked with TreeMasters, Inc. for more than 15 years.  She publishes the website, writes articles for the newsletters and blogs, and translates Jeff's sciencey vocabulary to that of the common man. ​

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