Yeah jimmy's got it right. Here's an info sheet on qualifying tree workers;
CERTIFICATIONS AND REGISTRATIONS FOR TREE WORK
If a landscaping company wants to provide tree service to their clients, they should know about certification and registration opportunities in that field. When trees are evaluated and managed by qualified people according to industry standards, there is less concern about malpractice and lawsuits against business liability insurers. Lawsuits over trees have caused increased premiums and canceled policies for landscaping companies.
Three tree organizations—ASCA, TCIA and ISA--work toward the professional development of their members, and the overall advancement of their branch of the tree industry. Below is a brief recap of these organizations’ programs. You may want to contact them directly for more information about who they are and what they do.
The American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) was developed to preserve the highest standards of performance in the field of arboricultural consulting. ASCA consulting arborists possess a high level of technical and business skills, making them the preferred choice as experts. ASCA members are experienced in legal, environmental and regulatory arenas, among others - giving you the distinct advantage when you select a designated consulting arborist.
ASCA's consulting arborists are committed to continuing their development of knowledge and skills, participating in continuing education to maintain their membership. Their professional training keeps them current on arboricultural issues. Consulting arborists are also set apart by ethical and professional codes, which are part of their membership. They serve as independent resources, rendering professional and credible opinions when they are enlisted as experts by the many industries they serve.
The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) Accreditation "seal of approval" helps consumers find tree care companies that have been inspected and accredited based on adherence to industry standards for quality and safety, maintenance of trained, professional staff and dedication to ethics and quality in business practices. They provide industry-standard written estimates. They carry sufficient insurance coverage and employ Certified Arborists.
The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) has been working hard with our members to raise the standard of professional tree care. The decision to choose the right arborist is very important. Trees should be managed like any other long-term investment, because their value and contributions can appreciate if managed well, or depreciate if neglected. The decision was once a simple one. Choose an ISA Certified Arborist.
Now, the ISA has been listening to our credential holders and has responded by developing a career path in arboriculture through our certification programs. This benefits the professional, and it will benefit you when hiring professional tree care. The ISA Certification credentials are based on the knowledge required to obtain each one.
ISA Certified Arborist - This is the largest group of credential holders. These professional arborists have a minimum of three years experience in some aspect of tree care and have passed an exam developed by an international panel of experts. The exam extensively covers every aspect of tree care and the individuals must have an acceptable level of knowledge in all areas of arboriculture.
ISA Certified Arborist/ Utility Specialist - This certification is for professional arborists who are ISA Certified Arborists in good standing and have additional experience in the specialty area of tree care around power lines. The utility specialists work for utility companies, their contractors or consultants. One of the certification objectives is to provide the public and those in government with a means to identify those professionals who have demonstrated, through a professionally developed exam and education program, that they have a thorough knowledge of line clearance vegetation management.
ISA Certified Arborist/ Municipal Specialist - This certification is also for professional arborists who are ISA Certified Arborists in good standing and have additional experience in the specialty area of urban trees. The municipal specialists work for cities and states, parks, contractors or consultants. One of the certification objectives is to provide the public and those in government with a means to identify those professionals who have demonstrated, through a professionally developed exam and education program, that they have a thorough knowledge of establishing and maintaining trees in a community.
ISA Certified Tree Worker/Climber Specialists - These credential holders have a minimum of 18 months experience professionally climbing trees in a safe and efficient manner to perform tree care. They have knowledge in the major aspects involved in tree care including, pruning, removal, cabling and safety. They must pass a knowledge exam and a skills exam conducted by trained evaluators.
ISA Board-Certified Master Arborist - This credential is designed for arborists who have reached the pinnacle of their profession. To sit for the exam, individuals must be a Certified Arborist in good standing and have obtained other prerequisites, or "points" defined by ISA. A minimum of eight points are required, obtained through measurable experience, formal education, related credentials, or professional experience. The computer-based exam covers science, practice and management.
ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist
There is neither a higher authority nor a more objective voice in the arboricultural profession than a Registered Consulting Arborist (RCA). They are trained on matters involving the legal, environmental and economic considerations of trees and plants. Registered Consulting Arborists are called upon for expert testimony, damage assessment and appraisal, municipal and commercial landscape planning and development, tree preservation and risk management. Their expert knowledge and experience in the tree care industry can provide you with credible and reliable information.
