Arborists, also known as “tree surgeons,” maintain tree health and shape. Arborist certification is earned through an exam, with six different types available. Certification can lead to better job prospects and pay raises. Specializations include public service, urban settings, climbing, aerial lifting, and board-certified master arborist. ISA certification is recognized worldwide.
Arborists are people who work with trees to maintain their health and shape and are sometimes referred to as “tree surgeons”. Arborist certification is earned through an exam, but each different variety of arborist has its own set of guidelines and required credentials. According to the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), there are six different types of arborist certification. Certifications include arborist, arborist with expertise in public services or dealing with municipalities, tree workers with expertise in climbing or aerial lift equipment, and master arborist.
Although arborists are not required to become certified in most locations, certification often means a pay raise and better job prospects. The most basic type of arborist certificate available is the arborist ISA, and the ISA provides study materials on its website. A list of required knowledge and credentials can also be found there. Basic knowledge of tree care, growth and identification is required. Similar certifications can be found through local organizations, but ISA certification is good anywhere in the world.
Public service specialty arborist certification means that the arborist has passed an exam and received a certificate stating that they know the proper safety procedures and rules to protect the health of a tree while working around utility lines. Often this type of arborist works for the utility companies themselves. A county specialization means that the arborist has a working knowledge of trees in urban settings. These arborists may work for city or regional governments, or park planning services, as well as contractors.
Certification may also include tree specialist certification in climbing or aerial lifting equipment. An arborist who wants to become an expert tree climber needs to have documented more than one year of tree climbing protocol. Aerial lifting equipment specialists work with powered equipment and must know and demonstrate recommended operating and safety procedures.
Board-certified master arborist certification requires a candidate to first become an ISA-certified arborist, in addition to meeting several prerequisites established by the ISA. People seeking this type of certification must be knowledgeable, knowledgeable about the science of trees and their diseases, their safe handling and control, as well as business management and corporate relationships. As with all other arborist certifications, there are exams that must be passed and arborist certification study guides are available from the ISA.
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