Branching Out: My Pathway to Becoming a Master Arborist

For over two decades, I've been immersed in the world of horticulture, from my studies at Ricks College and Brigham Young University to my current role at Pacific Plants, Inc. Now, with 24 years of experience as an ISA Certified Arborist and Tree Risk Assessment Qualified professional, I'm setting out on a new challenge: becoming an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist®. 

I've often kept my professional path and experiences compartmentalized from my online presence. But it's time for a change. As I prepare for the Master Arborist certification, I'm pushing to open up about this journey. I hope being public with my learning and progress can benefit others in our field.

Why This Certification Matters:

Certification is about more than just recognition. It's about committing to the highest standards in our field and ensuring the best care for our trees. As I work towards this goal, I want to take you along for the ride, sharing what I have learned and how it applies to the work we do every day.

The Series Outline:

In the upcoming blog series, topics will range from the scientific underpinnings, such as tree biology, soil science, and plant health care, to the practical aspects of climbing, pruning, and tree removal techniques. We'll delve into discussions on business relations, risk assessment, and tree preservation strategies. This series could also provide a step-by-step guide through the certification process, from meeting eligibility requirements to preparing for the exam and, finally, reflections on the test day.

The Study Plan:

I'm approaching my study with a structured plan. Think of it as a checklist where each item we tick off brings us closer to our goal. I'll study topic by topic, sharing insights and practical tips along the way.

This website has always been about building on a solid foundation of horticultural practice with new learning. Stay tuned for regular updates as I tackle each topic, and let's push the boundaries of our arboricultural knowledge together.