An arborist can make appropriate solutions to ensure that all cutting and removing trees is done correctly and safely.

The term arborist is a combination of the word "arbor," which means tree, and specialist. An arborist may be involved in tree planting, tree work, tree health, tree services, tree removal, tree pruning or making sure that they are safe for surrounding structures such as, roads, houses, utility lines and power lines. A professional arborist also advises on how to plant new trees where required. They can create urban landscape settings,advise on correct planting methods and take into consideration the size and age of existing trees.

What type of training do arborists complete?

A four-year course in arboriculture should include courses such as: Tree Biology, Integrated Pest Management, Hazardous Plant Identification and Removal, Arboricultural Law and Ethics and Tree Risk Assessment. During this time students will also gain practical experience in tree maintenance and soil erosion.

Does an arborist cut down trees?

The professional arborists will remove trees and work in order to ensure that all cutting and removing trees is done correctly and safely. A proper tree care should be needed. When an arborist cuts down poorly maintained trees, it can be felled via: the use of manual methods such as saws or chainsaws; the use of chemical treatment to reduce sap flow; or by physically removing it from the ground. Even if a tree has been felled, cutting and removal can still be completed in order to ensure that it is gone for good. It's always important to get rid of any type of stump once a tree has been removed. Qualified arborists are also needed to produce detailed site reports.

What is a tree surgeon?

A tree surgeon is someone who has undergone training to make sure that they are able to work safely in the industry including their personal safety. A tree surgeon will have completed courses such as: arboricultural studies, climbing, chainsaw operation and working with the public. After completing their initial course of education, many people choose to further their knowledge by gaining experience via an apprenticeship. Many tree surgeons go on to specialise in a certain area of the industry. This could include being a climbing or felling specialist, amongst others.

Is it dangerous being an arborist?

If we say that an arborist's work is not an easy task then it is not wrong. Working in the arboriculture sector can be quite hazardous due to falling branches or trees. Crown raising is normal in today's world, and arborists do the crown reduction in order to provide shade to the passengers. There is also a risk of cuts and grazes if working on smaller jobs involving ladders and saws; however, this is minimised when you follow all health & safety guidelines provided by your employer. The arborist must used specialised vehicles and need to act in a way that ensures safety at all times.

What is the difference between pruning and trimming?

There is a vast difference between pruning and trimming. If you want to make sure that your branches are trimmed properly it is important to distinguish between pruning and trimming. Pruning involves selective cutting of branches while trimming includes all types of shaping and sculpting. This includes removing dead wood, excess growth and crossing branches. Arborists are well placed to trim trees as they have the required expertise to carry this out safely.

Do arborists do landscaping?

A certified arborist will work in the landscaping sector so they have a full understanding of how trees and plants need to be cared for. They also understand their environmental impact and construction operations on structures such as driveways, paving slabs and walls. As part of their job, there is an arborist's evaluation, in this arborists carry out inspections to ensure that all branches are able to support their weight. This helps them plan ahead and determine which trees may require maintenance soon. Working with a tree surgeon who has a proper understanding of landscaping is a great way for people to enhance the overall look of their gardens or homes. For more information an trees, or to determine what tree you might have, take a look at this handy resource from the New South Wales Government's Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

Do arborists make good money?

It's possible to earn a good salary in this industry, especially if you're experienced. A big plus of working as an arborist is that it provides people with an opportunity to work outdoors while still being paid for their work.

How much does an arborist make per year?

The average salary for an arborist will depend on their level of experience and what sector they work in. Generally, it's estimated that the average worker earns around $60-70,000 every year. The more you know about the industry, tree work, healthy tree, tree services, assess trees, tree care, planting trees, tree removal, consulting services, community value, the more likely you are to receive the considerable value of pay, complete jobs quicker and offer a higher standard of service.

How does an arborist cut down trees?

There are three different ways that an arborist can cut down a tree.

Manual hand saw

This is the fastest and safest way to cut down a tree; however, it can be very labour-intensive. Tree removal is a last resort.

Chainsaw

While still time-consuming and manual, chainsaws do make cutting down trees faster.

Boom saw

Also known as a bucket saw or suspended arborist's saw, this method involves using a hydraulic line to power the boom arm of the machine. The tip of the boom can reach up to 40 feet in height and is often used for tall trees that wouldn't otherwise be accessible via other methods such as pruning or climbing.

Once an arborist decides on the right course of action, they will use ropes and harnesses to climb the tree and begin cutting. If you decide to cut down a tree yourself, you should ensure that it's at least 30 feet away from any buildings or power lines so no one gets hurt.

How do arborists climb trees?

It is dangerous work so before arborists can attempt to climb a tree they need to secure themselves and do their job safely by using a safety harness as well as some other essential gear such as the below.

Winch

A winch enables them to pull themselves up into the air quickly and safely; it also lets them lower themselves back down again.

Rope

Rope is used for securing items such as tools and additional gear.

Sling

A sling is used for carrying tools and equipment up the trees safely.

Once all of this is in place, the arborist can climb up to their desired height so they can begin working on thinning out branches or felling the trees. If there are any large overhanging branches that could pose a threat to anyone below, it's best for the person doing the cutting to create a means of support so they don't fall or cause injury to themselves or others. You want to be careful dealing with your trees because you have no way of knowing how an accident will happen until it does. Once an arborist has climbed high enough, he/she may secure themself to the tree so they are able to work without fear of falling.

If you decide to cut down a tree yourself, you need to ensure that all safety precautions are taken before starting work. If not, your lack of experience could lead to serious injuries or even death. Ensure you have the appropriate legal permissions before you cut any tree down.