JULY 2 EDITION OF "ASK THE ARBORIST"

Why should I use a Licensed Arborist to do my tree work?  This is a very good question since it seems like anyone who calls himself or herself a tree person has the proper credentials to do tree work right? According to information from the “Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Services” an Arborist License is required for persons advertising, soliciting or contracting to do Arboriculture work in the State of Connecticut.  As defined by the law “Arboriculture means any work done for hire to improve the condition of shade, fruit or ornamental trees by feeding or fertilization, trimming, pruning, bracing or any other methods of improving tree conditions.  Tree removal and storm damage clean up is exempt from the above law.  Most Connecticut Licensed Arborists have taken a review class offered by the Connecticut Tree Protection Association prior to sitting for the Arborist License exam.  The Arbor 101 course is 10 weeks long 3 hours each session providing rudimentary information in basic tree biology, tree identification, soils and pest management.  Candidates for the Connecticut Arborist License exam must pass a written exam then a field tree identification exam followed by an oral exam given by two or more representatives from the CARES.  Once licensed the Connecticut Arborist must maintain 12 hr of continuing education every five years.  Some Connecticut Arborists hold a license with the International Society of Arboriculture or ISA.  The ISA license exam is also 200 questions and requires 30 hrs or more of continuing education every three years.

You should hire a licensed Arborist not only because of the law, but the CT Licensed Arborist has already been required by the state to demonstrate skills for proper tree maintenance.  The Connecticut Licensed Arborist is most likely a member of the Connecticut Tree Protection Association and will have additional resources for understanding invasive pest problems like the Emerald Ash Borer.  Before you hire out tree work check the credentials of your tree person.  Is he or she a Licensed CT Arborist? Do they understand the A 300 pruning standards? Can they properly identify your tree down to the correct species?  Using non-licensed tree people for pruning your trees not only is malpractice with the state, but it also under-mines the time, care and passion Licensed CT Arborists have placed into their profession.

Your Yacko and Sons Tree Service staff Forester is not only a graduate Forester but a Licensed Arborist with the State of Connecticut and the International Society of Arboriculture.  Forester Jeff is always available to give your trees A FREE LOOK-UP FROM THE TRUNK-UP!  jeff@yackoandsons.com or 203-733-9219