Arborist vs. certified arborist: what’s the difference to your trees? Are these professional roles the same? Here are some answers from Brooke Tree Service, a trusted tree service in Medfield, MA.
Plain Old Arborist vs. Certified Arborist: What Makes Them Different?
Like any professional field, an arborist can pursue specific qualifications and higher expertise levels in tree care. Knowing how to apply the best industry practices to clients’ cases can be tricky. However, not every arborist receives specific certifications, including slapping on that lauded “certified” title.
What Does an Arborist Do?
The average arborist applies basic industry standards and knowledge to their clients’ trees with the aim of protecting overall tree health. Typically, they’ll base their decisions on what is best for the target specimen or to protect surrounding trees. These individuals specialize in promoting the health of woody plants, like trees and shrubs, but their expertise may vary.
All arborists typically have the same tree health objectives. However, not every professional has earned the right to call themselves a “certified arborist,” as we’ll see below.
How Does a Certified Arborist Stand Apart?
What separates arborist vs. certified arborist titles? Your certified arborist is a specialist who has earned at least one professional certification. They’ve worked hard to receive years of formal education, completed hands-on training, and then demonstrated best practices to earn that badge of honor from a recognized organization.
In this industry, it’s most common for an arborist to earn the ISA certification. The International Society of Arboriculture awards these certificates to arborists who meet its strict qualifications and pass in-depth examinations. An ISA-certified arborist brings much more than basic tree knowledge to the table, as they stay up to date on cutting-edge care techniques, tree ordinances, and more.
Should You Only Pick a Certified Arborist for Your Tree Projects?
Almost anyone with basic tree care knowledge and experience might call themselves an arborist. However, your certified arborist will always adhere to industry-specific standards. Often, certified individuals will apply more recent care tactics, which may benefit your trees more.
Can you work with an arborist who hasn’t earned a certification? Of course, you can. However, they may have had to figure out the best arboricultural practices from extensive industry experience and a wealth of accurate tree knowledge rather than a certification.
After years on the job, they may know how to correctly trim a limb or two and apply basic fertilizer. However, when it comes to problematic trees or growth challenges, a property owner might choose a certified arborist to give their trees the best chance. Always verify that they have earned an ISA certification if they claim to be a certified “tree surgeon,” “licensed arborist,” or something similar.
Ask Brooke Tree Service About Hiring Trusted Tree Professionals in Medfield, Massachusetts
Now that you know how arborist vs. certified arborist designations differ, you may want to read more about understanding tree arborist qualifications and training. If you’re local, you can also call Brooke Tree Service at 508-613-5044 about services in Medfield, Massachusetts!