WHY HIRE AN ARBORIST?

    An arborist is a specialist in the care of individual trees. Arborists are
    knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and
    equipped to provide proper care. Hiring an arborist is a decision that
    should not be taken lightly. Proper tree care is an investment that
    can lead to substantial returns. Well-cared-for trees are attractive
    and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained
    trees can be a significant liability. Pruning or removing trees,
    especially large trees, can be dangerous work. Tree work should be
    done only by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees.
    Services That Arborists Can Provide   

    PRUNING
    An arborist can determine the type of pruning necessary to maintain or
    improve the health, appearance, and safety of trees. These techniques
    include
    - eliminating branches that rub each other
    - removing limbs that interfere with wires, building facades, gutters, roofs,
      chimneys, or windows, or that obstruct streets or sidewalks
    - removing dead or weak limbs that pose a hazard or may lead to decay
    - removing diseased or insect-infested limbs
    - creating better structure to lessen wind resistance and reduce the potential
      for storm damage
    - training young trees
    - removing limbs damaged by adverse weather conditions
    - removing branches, or thinning, to increase light penetration

    - improving the shape or silhouette of the tree.

    REMOVAL
    Although tree removal is a last resort, there are circumstances when it is
    necessary. An arborist can help decide whether a tree should be removed.
    Arborists have the skills and equipment to safely and efficiently remove
    trees. Removal is recommended when the tree

    - is dead or dying
    - is considered irreparably hazardous
    - is causing an obstruction that is impossible to correct through pruning
    - is crowding and causing harm to other trees
    - is to be replaced by a more suitable specimen
    - is located in an area where new construction requires removal
    EMERGENCY TREE CARE
    Storms may cause limbs or entire trees to fall, often landing on other trees,
    homes and other structures, or cars. The weight of storm-damaged trees is
    great, and they can be dangerous to remove or trim. An arborist can assist
    in performing the job in a safe manner, while reducing further risk of damage
    to property.
    PLANTING
    Some arborists plant trees, and most can recommend types of trees that
    are appropriate for a specific location. The wrong tree in the wrong location
    could lead to future problems as a result of limited growing space, insects,
    diseases, or poor growth.
    OTHER SERVICES
    When selecting an arborist,
    - check for membership in professional organizations such as the
    International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Such membership
    demonstrates a willingness on the part of the arborist to stay up to date on
    the latest techniques and information.
    - check for ISA arborist certification. Certified Arborists are experienced
    professionals who have passed an extensive examination covering all
    aspects of tree care.
    - ask for proof of insurance and then phone the insurance company if you
    are not satisfied. A reputable arborist carries personal and property damage
    insurance as well as workers compensation insurance. Many home owners
    have had to pay out large amounts of money for damages caused by
    uninsured individuals claiming to be tree experts. You could be held
    responsible for damages and injuries that occur as a result of the job.
    - check for necessary permits and licenses. Some governmental agencies
    require contractors to apply for permits and/or to apply for a license before
    they are able to work. Be sure they comply with any provincial or national
    laws that govern their work.
    - ask for references to find out where the company has done work similar to
    the work you are requesting. Don’t hesitate to check references or visit
    other work sites where the company or individual has done tree work.
    Remember, tree care is a substantial, long-lasting investment; you would
    not buy a car without a test drive!
    - get more than one estimate, unless you know and are comfortable with
    the arborist. You may have to pay for the estimates, and it will take more
    time, but it will be worth the investment.
    - don’t always accept the low bid. You should examine the credentials and
    the written specifications of the firms that submitted bids and determine the
    best combination of price, work to be done, skill, and professionalism to
    protect your substantial investment.
    - be wary of individuals who go door to door and offer bargains for
    performing tree work. Most reputable companies are too busy to solicit
    work in this manner. Improper tree care can take many years to correct
    itself and, in some cases, it can never be corrected. Are you willing to
    take that risk with your valuable investment?
    - keep in mind that good arborists will perform only accepted practices. For
    example, practices such as topping a tree, removing an excessive amount
    of live wood, using climbing spikes on trees that are not being removed, and
    removing or disfiguring living trees without just cause are unnecessary.
    - get it in writing. Most reputable arborists have their clients sign a contract.
    Be sure to read the contract carefully. Don’t be afraid to ask questions,
    such as
    - When will the work be started and completed?
    - Who will be responsible for clean-up?
    - Is this the total price?
    - If I would like more to be done, what is your hourly rate?
    What Is a Certified Arborist?
    An arborist by definition is an individual who is trained in the art and
    science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees. ISA arborist
    certification is a nongovernmental, voluntary process by which individuals
    can document their base of knowledge. It operates without mandate of law
    and is an internal, self-regulating device administered by the International
    Society of Arboriculture. Certification provides a measurable assessment of
    an individual’s knowledge and competence required to provide proper tree
    care.
    Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge
    in the art and science of tree care through experience and by passing a
    comprehensive examination developed by some of the nation’s leading
    experts on tree care. Certified Arborists must also continue their education
    to maintain their certification. Therefore, they are more likely to be up to
    date on the latest techniques in arboriculture.
    Be an Informed Consumer
    One of the best methods to use in choosing an arborist is to educate
    yourself on some of the basic principles of tree care.