Job Overview Trees release oxygen into the atmosphere and provide food and shelter for different animals. People are also protected from the glare of the sun and stong winds because of these trees. Their roots prevent soil erosion and their decaying leaves enriches the soil. Trees are important to people and environment. Seasonal maintenance and proper care of trees are performed by professionals who are trained in arboriculture which is a branch of science of horticulture. Arborists is a profession related to study of forestry. They were first known as tree surgeons.
Education,Knowledge and Trainings Required
A successful arborist has a strong knowledge in Biology specifically Botany. Universities and colleges have programs in Arboriculture, Nursery Stock Production, Landscape Design, Grounds and Turf Maintenance. Classes in this fields are Chemistry, Plant Pathology, Botany and Horticulture. Advanced education is not necessary for assistants and climbers but those who plan to make this as their career should take advanced lessons to be more competitive. Books and home study courses on Arboriculture is offered by International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). Arborist are usually licensed or certified. Employers usually look for certification before allowing an applicant to care for their trees and landscaping plants.
Skills and Abilities
Arborists should have a passion and strong interest in gardening and conservation. They should love to work outdoors. They need to be observant to know what is causing the tree to be weak. They should know how to use different chemicals which will treat the trees. They should not be afraid of heights since arborists may need to work on tall trees.
Duties
Arbonist takes care of the trees wellbeing and health. They are responsible in pruning which involves trimming limbs when it cross property lines or interferes with power lines. They should know how to use cutting equipment like pruning shears, hand and powers saws. Knowing what type of trees is best for a certain location is included in the list of duties of arborist.
They are usually consulted by developers of a certain area to determine what type of trees can be planted. They are also responsible in knowing what diseases affect the trees and how these can be prevented. Identifying potential threats to the trees are also done by arborist. They monitor insect migrations and check for disease-causing organisms like viruses, fungi and bacteria. They apply natural or chemical fertilizers on trees to make them healthier and bloom well.
Earnings and Job Outlook
Starting arbonist can get to earn around $7 to $10 every hour while those who are experienced earn around $20 to $30 an hour. Work experience, size of the company and geographical location determine the income of an arborist. The demand for arborist will slowly increase since people are now aware of preserving the environment and can take preventive and promotive measures on their own.
Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.