Agricultural Careers By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Ms. Anna Burgess Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 START Arborist

Job Duties & Responsibilities Examine trees for signs of disease or other problems Apply pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers Climb trees using ropes and climbing saddles Analyze growth patterns to decide where and how to prune Prune branches with chainsaws, shears, and clippers Advise clients on tree selection and care Fell trees and remove from property Operate a variety of heavy equipment such as chippers

Qualities and Skills A good work ethic, along with physical strength and stamina are required for arborists to perform in an efficient manner. Much of the work involves heavy lifting and working under dangerous conditions. A person doing this work must be able to climb and not be afraid of heights, as climbing is a basic skill in this industry. One who is good working with their hands and power tools is ideal for this type of career. If planning to own your own business, you must be able to work well with customers and clients and make decisions based on professional standards and personal judgment.

Arborists who diagnose and treat specialty trees usually earn more than $30,000 yearly, and those who are certified with Bachelor’s and Master's Degrees can earn higher salaries as consultants, researchers and expert witnesses in court cases involving trees. As with most labor-intensive work, a person has the most potential for higher income when they start their own business. Salary

Work Environment Almost all work is done outside in a variety of weather conditions Much traveling is required because arborists move to new job sites frequently, sometimes several in one day A major portion of the work is performed after climbing or being lifted in a bucket truck into the tops of trees

Education One can become a beginning arborist as a high school graduate or even without a diploma, but to advance beyond the level of helper you need further education. College certificate and degree programs in forestry, horticulture, botany, and biology are valuable. Most arborists learn their practical skills on the job. Employers sometimes offer workers a training program that is provided as a package by the National Arborists Association.

Career Resources International Society of Arboriculture Internet: Tree Care Industry Association Internet: American Society of Consulting Arborists Internet: Tree Foundation Internet: Society of Municipal Arborists Internet: Careers in Arboriculture Internet: