Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the difference between an arborist and a certified arborist?

A: 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.

News

Nominate a True Professsional of Arboriculture

ISA Announces search for the 2010 True Professionals of Arboriculture

Do you know a tree care provider who is a true professional of arboriculture? If so, you are encouraged to nominate them for the ISA True Professionals of Arboriculture Recognition award.

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What is an Arborist and How Can You Find One?
From Planet Green a Discovery Company MORE >>

Green Spaces Improve Health
(BBC News) There is more evidence that living near a 'green space' has health benefits. MORE >>

National Register of Big Trees
Big trees are symbols of all the good work trees do for the quality of the environment-and our quality of life. MORE >>

National Tree Benefits Calculator
The Tree Benefit Calculator allows anyone to make a simple estimation of the benefits individual street-side trees provide. This tool is based on i-Tree’s street tree assessment tool called STRATUM. With inputs of location, species and tree size, users will get an understanding of the environmental and economic value trees provide on an annual basis. The Tree Benefit Calculator is intended to be simple and accessible. As such, this tool should be considered a starting point for understanding trees’ value in the community, rather than a scientific accounting of precise values. For more detailed information on urban and community forest assessments, visit the i-Tree website. MORE >>

Why Leaves Really Fall Off Trees
(From NPR)– You think you know why leaves fall off trees. Well, you're wrong. It's not the wind. It's not the cold. MORE >>


"I never saw a discontented tree. They grip the ground as though they liked it, and though fast rooted they travel about as far as we do. They go wandering forth in all directions with every wind, going and coming like ourselves, traveling with us around the sun two million miles a day, and through space heaven knows how fast and far!" - John Muir

Resources

Certified Arborist Brochure

This brochure discusses ways in which a Certified Arborist can assist property owners, and why a Certified Arborist should be chosen.

Available through the ISA Web store

Protect Your Investment, Hire An Arborist
What is an arborist? An arborist is a professional who is trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining trees. Why hire an arborist? MORE >>

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P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61826
Email comments & questions to isa@isa-arbor.com