Introducing: Tree Buds Citizen Forester Program

Be part of the 1^st Tree Buds Citizen Forester Training Class starting Saturday, March 30^th, 2019

Here is an opportunity to receive hands on training on proper tree pruning technique and essential tree care maintenance from professional ISA Certified Arborists.

The Tree Buds citizen forester training program is sponsored by the Alamo Forest Partnership and the San Antonio Arborists Association to teach citizens the basics of proper tree pruning and essential tree care with a primary focus on young and recently planted trees.

Since 2009 the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation department with the help of many volunteers has planted over 20,000 trees. These young trees have been for the most part properly planted and watered to ensure establishment. However, basic structural pruning has not been completed on a majority of these 20,000 trees.

Here is where the Tree Buds training program comes in. Selected ‘Tree Buds’ will be trained on proper pruning techniques to improve the structure of the young trees and to perform basic tree care maintenance such as ensuring tree root collars are exposed and mulch is properly applied.

Applicants selected to be part of the first Tree Buds class will receive a minimum of 4 hours of training and hands on practice with ISA Certified Arborists. In return trainees will be required to perform 12 hours of community service under the supervision of the Tree Buds program certified arborists within one year at selected city parks and community centers to prune and provide basic tree care for young trees in city parks and public spaces in our communities.

Complete the application below and email to:

Mbirdman29@gmail.com

20 applicants will be selected to be part of the 1^st Tree Buds Citizen Forester Class

Tree Buds training information:

When: Saturday, March 30^th

Time: 8:00 to 1:00

Where: Woodlawn Lake Island House

What will be provided:

• ·         Program introduction, policies and procedures
• ·         Common urban tree mistakes and myths
• ·         Tree identification
• ·         Tree pruning basics
• ·         Field demonstrations and hands on practice
• ·         Tree Buds t-shirt & hat
• ·         *Tools will be issued for use at the training session and at each work day (tools to include but not limited to: tree hand saw, hand pruners, scabbard, pole saw, spray paint)
• ·         *Safety equipment will be issued for use at the training session and at each work day (hardhat, safety glasses, gloves)