How To Become An Arborist?

How to become an arborist?

How to become a arborist-coconut palm
Coconut Palm

The field of landscape and gardening is a broad and exciting field with many different areas. I have worked in many of these areas and enjoy working with nature by installing growing and maintaining plants, trees, shrubs, grasses, and so on. However, in this article, we will be looking at the job of an arborist, what are their responsibilities, and how to become certified.

The job of an arborist

The job of an arborist is to maintain trees and shrubs keeping them well pruned where they don’t interfere with power lines, become a security hazard in the case of blocking areas that should be visible to the public, blocking road signs and other hazards that may endanger the lives of people.

An arborist also keeps trees and shrubs well-groomed so they can maintain their natural appearance thereby improving their health, flower, and fruit production.

This is a great field that presents many opportunities but in order to work as an arborist, specialized training is needed to caring out your responsibilities in a safe and professional way.

Tools of arborist

There are many tools that arborist needs in order to carry out their responsibilities as well as protective gear to ensure they are safe at all times while working on various projects. Remember in this line of work just like any other job SAFETY IS ALWAYS FIRST.

Tools of an Arborist

Some tools that arborist use include

  •  Tractor
  • Pool saw
  •  Power saw
  •  Cutlass
  •  Trucks

    Washingtonia Palm-how-to-become-an-arborist
    An Arborist
  •  Cranes with a bucket lift
  •  Hard hat
  •  Harness
  • Pruning saw
  •  Loppers
  • Boots
  • Gloves
  •  Goggles
  • Ladder
  •  Hearing protection

These are just some of the tools that are needed to do the job right while being safe.

Arborist place of work

As an arborist, you can expect to work for the city as well as a private contractor. The advantages of this job are you get to move around a lot. So, in my opinion, becoming an arborist can be so much fun bringing you in contact with so many people.

The job of an arborist is very dangerous therefore safety should always be first especially when working above ground near power lines and trees that pose a threat to people and traffic. When using power tools be very careful.

A former co-worker had to seek medical attention when he accidentally cut open his leg with a power tool. Talk about a freak accident.

 Average Arborist Salary

This is the fun part, right? What’s the use of doing a job and not being paid well for it? The pay rate differs depending on the state, level of training, and the position you hold. $25.000-$55.000 per year and in some cases, even more, can be expected as you work your way up.

Working your way up the ladder is worth it because the salaries can become very comfortable in an exciting field such as this.

Certification Courses

It is good to know that you’re in a field that promises growth which means you can elevate. Starting on-the-job training is great but moving on from there is better as you advance.

Where do I get my certification?

how-to-become-and-arborist
Certificate

There are many places where you can receive your certification such as the

International Society of Arboriculture

University of Missouri

University of Wisconsin

Purdue University

The New York State Arborist

These are just a few of the places to get certified. Check with your state extension center to see what programs are available in your area.

The final word

Becoming a certified arborist is an exciting field as you connect with nature ensuring not only the safety of people but the overall health of plant life so consider the opportunities that await you as you become a part of an exciting field that is filled with adventure as you give nature a helping hand.

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About the author

+ posts

Norman loves being in the garden, both at home and for his job....
he is 'Natures Little helper' being outdoors, growing his vegetables and flowers from an early age.
Now having spent over 22 years in the profession he want to give some of his knowledge to others...
his vast array of hints and tips you will find scattered over this site will help you no end growing plants in your garden.