The Cranky Arborist
Trees are truly remarkable. They provide us with almost everything that makes living worthwhile.
You...
...live longer, recover from illness faster, are less stressed, live in safer cities, are cooler, are at less risk from flooding, score higher on tests, are more satisfied at work, have lower blood pressure, have a stronger immune system, have better mental and cardiovascular health, have a better attention span.
They help slow cognitive decline in older adults, and they cause beneficial structure changes in children's brains.
From cradle to grave, they are good for you.
Well, then why so cranky?
Because we do bad things to trees. From the nursery to the backyard to the park.
Some of it's because we simply don't know any better, and that's understandable. Many times people are just doing the best they can. Some know better but still do bad things.
Often we say we love trees... until they get in the way of something we want.
Regardless, a tree simply doesn't care. If we do something bad to it, the consequences are still significant.
So, what do we do?
Science. Standards. And a simple premise:
Becoming "tree" centric, instead of "me" centric.
Best Management Practices, informed by research, utilizing technology are the "carpenter's square", the measuring rod that can hold those who work with trees accountable. To benefit you and your trees.
The ANSI A300 National Tree Care Standards, Tree Biomechanics research, the ANSI Z60 Nursery Stock Standards, and understanding the processes that drive tree growth and health will ensure we don't do bad things to trees.
All these factors will help you determine whether you've found an Arborist, or simply a "dude that works on trees".
And that will make you, and your trees less cranky.