1.

Tree Biology (11%)

Knowledge
Anatomy and functions of roots, trunks, leaves, twigs, and branches
Photosynthesis
Respiration
Energy allocation and storage within a tree
Tree profiles
Tree identification
Mechanical stress and response growth
Growth habits and stages
Water movement within the tree
Morphophysiology
Skills
Identifying trees
Making management and maintenance recommendations based on structural and
physiological needs
Making management and maintenance recommendations based on the developmental stage
of the tree
TASK B:
Explain the life cycle of a tree and develop tree work recommendations based on
developmental needs and tree growth.

Knowledge
Vegetative growth
Tree death
Phenology
Environmental effects and responses
Propagation
Reproduction
Skills
Developing maintenance recommendations based on condition and life cycle
2. Identification and Selection (9%)
TASK A:
Describe the importance of proper tree identification when it comes to tree
management.

Knowledge
The relationship among tree species characteristics, accurate tree identification,
and problem diagnosis
Skills
Using tree identification reference materials
Using tree identification systems
TASK B:
Explain tree classification systems and utilize appropriate nomenclature during
tree identification and communication.

Knowledge
General tree classification
Skills
Using and notating plant-specific names in communication and report writing
TASK C:
Describe important physical and morphological structures used in the identification
of tree species.

Knowledge
Leaf anatomy, types, arrangements, and characteristics
Root, branch, twig, and trunk anatomy
Tropical and desert tree characteristics
Fruits
Seeds and seedpods
Flower and inflorescence types
Tree profiles
Skills
Collecting tree samples that aid in identification of the tree
Recognizing notable features in key anatomical structures
Utilizing available tree identification resources and tools
TASK D:
Select trees appropriate for a given planting site and project needs, taking into
consideration short-term and long-term requirements and maintenance goals.

Knowledge
Tree species characteristics
Considerations and potential vulnerabilities of specific species
Skills
Collecting and analyzing soil samples
Assessing site characteristics
Selecting a tree species that will thrive at a given site
Recommending tree species for the planting site
Communicating tree requirements and site considerations
Making recommendations based on tree requirements and site considerations
3. Soil Management (7%)
TASK A:
Assess the chemical, biological, and physical components of soil and its
relationship in supporting tree development and growth.

Knowledge
Industry standards for soil management
Biological components of soil
Chemical characteristics of soil
Physical characteristics of soil
Soil formation and horizons
Relationship between root distribution and soil
Soil sampling methods
Urban soils
Skills
Collecting and testing soil samples
Interpreting test results
Analyzing soil characteristics
TASK B:
Explain the interaction between soil and water and how it affects tree growth and
development, list management options when needed, and assess site conditions.

Knowledge
Water movement and drainage
Supplemental water systems
Water budgets
Soil structure
Water behavior in soil
Local climatic conditions affecting availability and uptake of water from soil
Relationship among soil characteristics, water, and drainage
Skills
Assessing water-holding capacity and drainage
Recommending methods for effective water management
TASK C:
Plant and transplant trees according to industry standards and best practices.

Knowledge
Soil management and amendments
Types of fertilizer
Tree nutritional and uptake requirements
Fertilization application timing and techniques
Soil volume and structure requirements for trees
Skills
Recommending soil management and development strategies to support tree growth and
development in urban areas
Recommending and applying fertilizer on a needs basis, according to applicable
industry standards
Identifying soil improvement and remediation strategies
4. Installation and Establishment (9%)
TASK A:
Plant and transplant trees according to industry standards.

Knowledge
How the nursery industry propagates and grows trees
Advantages and disadvantages of different nursery stock types
Industry-standard planting and transplanting practices
Planting timing
Backfilling
Root ball interaction with soil and planting hole
Proper tree placement
Impact of soil amendments
Skills
Assessing the quality and health of planting stock
Pruning roots and shaving root balls to prevent girdling
Transplanting trees
Handling planting stock
Removing root ball package materials
Preparing the planting site
Backfilling and adding soil to support tree establishment
TASK B:
Provide care for newly planted trees to ensure growth, good structure, and
survival.

Knowledge
Skills
5. Pruning (14%)
TASK A:
Explain why pruning is undertaken and list the main industry-standard pruning
systems, types of cuts, general practices, and objectives.

Knowledge
Pruning practices and considerations in relation to optimal timing and quantity
Pruning objectives
Accepted industry standards for tree pruning
Wound response
Outcomes of tree pruning
Skills
Communicating how tree pruning promotes good structure
Assessing site and tree conditions that influence pruning decisions
Explaining the difference between unacceptable and acceptable pruning techniques to
a lay audience
TASK B:
List commonly used industry-standard pruning tools and their uses.
Knowledge
Chainsaws
Scissor-type tools
Pruning saws
Skills
Selecting the appropriate pruning tool for a given scenario
Cleaning and maintaining pruning tools
Handling pruning tool according to best practices
TASK C:
Recommend and execute tree pruning in a way that minimizes impact and promotes
longevity.

Knowledge
Compartmentalization of decay in trees
Root and utility pruning
Improper pruning techniques
Safety standards and requirements for working near electrical systems
Anatomy and physiology of tree parts, branches, and branch unions
Types of pruning cuts
Disinfection of tools
ISO 11681-2:2011/AMD 1:2017
Skills
Determining where the pruning cut should be according to the branch union anatomy
and best practices
Writing pruning specifications and objectives
Sequencing cuts to facilitate the ease of handling removed materials
Minimizing the potential for bark tearing beyond the point of branch attachment
Predicting tree response to pruning cuts depending on the tree species, timing,
age, wound size, and overall health of the tree
TASK D:
Explain pruning practices that are detrimental to tree health and longevity.

Knowledge
Consequences of improper cuts on tree health and structure
Harmful pruning practices
Skills
Anticipating potential impacts of detrimental pruning practices to tree health and
structure
Explaining why certain pruning strategies, cuts, and wound dressings may be
detrimental to tree health and longevity
6. Diagnosis and Treatment (9%)
TASK A:
Explain and implement diagnostic principles and practices.

Knowledge
Tree identification
Common biotic and abiotic stresses and disorders
Diseases
Difference between signs and symptoms
Difference between biotic and abiotic disorders
Skills
Identifying the causes of common tree health problems
Identifying emerging regional problems and trends in plant pests and disease
recognition and monitoring
TASK B:
Explain plant health care and integrated pest management principles.

Knowledge
PHC and IPM principles
Compounding factors
Stress factors
TASK C:
Develop and implement a plant health care management plan that takes integrated
pest management into consideration and a holistic view of the landscape and
environmental needs.

Knowledge
PHC and IMP principles
Tree identification
Standards and laws associated with chemical control use, proper waste management,
storage, and application
Tree diagnostics and treatment
Skills
Developing and implementing a PHC management plan
Communicating findings and associated management plans and recommendations
Monitoring pest resurgence, treatment success, and follow-up care
7. Trees and Construction (9%)
TASK A:
Develop and implement tree protection plans for individual trees or tree
populations that are on or near construction, development, or demolition sites.

Knowledge
TPZ and CRZ
Accepted industry standards related to trees and construction
Species-specific resilience/vulnerability to construction
Tree protection measures
Site plans
Construction phases
Roles of developers and contractors withing a tree protection plan
Methods for root and soil protection
Skills
Interpreting a site plan
Coordinating tree protection activities with contractors and developers
Assessing the effectiveness of tree protection plans
Recommending measures to protect trees from damage before and during construction
Utilizing the site plan to aid in implementing the tree protection plan
TASK B:
Predict the impact of construction activities on tree health and stability.

Knowledge
Construction practices and techniques
The impact of construction activity on tree health and stability, trunk, branches,
and root systems
TASK C:
Recommend treatments for trees that have been impacted during construction.

Knowledge
Short-term and long-term impact of construction on a tree’s longevity
Conditions w3hen tree removal and replacement is necessary
Skills
Assessing risk related to construction injury to the tree
Developing a treatment and mitigation plan
Providing care to the tree to promote recovery
Recommending short-term and long-term treatments to promote recovery
8. Tree Risk (11%)
TASK A:
Identify and communicate the roles and responsibilities of different parties
involved in tree risk management.

Knowledge
Roles and responsibilities of the risk assessor
Roles and responsibilities of the tree owner/manager
Roles and responsibilities of the arborist
Skills
Communicating risk and risk management with a diverse audience
TASK B:
List the types of risk associated with trees.

Knowledge
Tripping
Slipping
Whole tree vs. tree part failure
Other potential risk sources
TASK C:
Perform a limited visual tree risk assessment of an individual tree or a population
of trees near specified targets.

Knowledge
Site analysis
Assessment levels
Tree stability
Tree analysis
Mitigation of tree risk
Skills
Identifying obvious tree defects and conditions that may increase the likelihood of
failure
Determining the interval of inspections
Determining which level of assessment is necessary under various circumstances
Recommending measures to mitigate tree risk
9. Safe Work Practices (15%)
TASK A:
Explain and comply with industry safety standards, regulations, local laws, and
directives for performing tree work and ensuring the safety of climbers, workers,
and other persons near the work zone.

Knowledge
Industry safety standards and requirements
Industry safety standards and requirements regarding working near electrical
systems
ISO 11681-2:2011/AMD 1:2017
Work-zone security, communication, and work planning best practices
Fire safety
Skills
Referring to relevant laws and regulations from all levels of government
Accessing and maintaining reference materials
TASK B:
Develop safety protocols to mitigate risk present within the tree of interest, work
site, or equipment being used.

Knowledge
Command and response communication system
Local plants and animals that are potential hazards to workers
Signs and symptoms of trunk and root decay
Species-related patterns of whole tree or tree part failure
Fire safety
Mechanical or physical damage done to a tree and/or root system
Ergonomics
Visual tree inspection
Common defects in trees
Skills
Reviewing documentation
Determining if the tree can withstand the necessary work forces
Securing hazardous materials when not in use
Managing traffic hazards
Assessing tree structure
Preparing the work zone
Visually identifying obvious tree defects and conditions
Visually inspecting the immediate surroundings of the tree
Developing and communicating a job briefing
TASK C:
Comply with safety standards when working near electrical hazards.

Knowledge
Basic properties of electricity
Common electrical systems and other services
Minimum approach distances
Sources of electrical shock
Skills
Identifying what stage of electrical distribution the line is carrying
Maintaining minimum approach distances
Identifying electrical hardware and line features
Wearing personal protection equipment
TASK D:
Utilize tools and equipment to safely conduct tree work.

Knowledge
Pruning saws
Large equipment and vehicle applications
Scissor-type tools
Chippers and stump grinders
Aerial lifts
Skills
Recognizing operational flaws
Coordinating arboriculture work with large equipment vehicle operators
Inspecting tools and equipment for sustainability
Selecting the appropriate mechanical or hand tools to perform arboricultural work
Using mechanical and hand tools in accordance with manufacturing specifications
TASK E:
Utilize appropriate personal protective equipment to protect the health and safety
of the arborist.

Knowledge
Head protection systems
Eye protection systems
Hearing protection
Leg, foot, and hand protection
Industry-standard tree-climbing saddle/harness, connecting links, and spurs/gaffs
Other PPE according to local regulations
Skills
Selecting and inspecting appropriate PPE
Wearing, adjusting, and maintaining PPE
Selecting tree-climbing equipment that is appropriate for project specifications
and meets regulations and industry standards
TASK F:
Explain critical climbing tasks necessary to perform tree work safely.
Knowledge
Climbing ropes and rope systems used in arboriculture
Climbing techniques used for tie in and ascent
Procedures for a safe and controlled ascent, descent, and tree work while aloft
Knots or rope tools which provide safe entry and activity in the tree
TASK G:
Explain methods and techniques for tree-rigging used in arboriculture.

Knowledge
Tree-rigging hardware, techniques, and systems
Tree characteristics and strength in relation to anchor point and anticipated
forces in use during rigging
TASK H:
Remove trees using appropriate techniques to ensure accuracy and safety as well as
processing the tree parts.

Knowledge
Techniques for felling
Work positioning techniques to reduce repetitive strain injuries and minimize
exposure to chainsaw kickback
Chainsaw safety features
Cutting techniques
Techniques for aerial dismantlement
Tree-removal safety hazards
Skills
Developing a felling strategy
Developing a felling escape route strategy
Work positioning to maximize comfort and control and minimize exposure to kickback
while handling a chainsaw
Selecting and recommending appropriate tools to achieve directional control
TASK I:
Aid in providing care or oversight during emergency situations involving physical
harm or hazardous conditions that pose a safety risk to the arborist, other
workers, and other persons near the work zone.

Knowledge
CPR
Aerial rescue
Emergency action plan
First aid
Skills
Communicating with emergency responders
Assessing environmental hazards
Documenting and communicating with stakeholders after an emergency
TASK J:
Promote the importance of safety and training of safety procedures and behaviors.

Knowledge
Safety procedures
Importance of safety training
Relevant guidelines and standards for arboriculture work
Skills
Communicating the benefits of safety training and procedures
10. Urban Forestry (6%)
TASK A:
Discuss the aesthetic, ecological, economic, environmental, social, and health
benefits of urban forests and trees.
Knowledge
Aesthetic benefits of trees
Environmental benefits of trees
Economic benefits of trees
Sociological benefits of trees
Health benefits of trees
Benefit-cost ratio (BCR) and return on investment (ROI) associated with trees
Skills
Discussing benefits, tradeoffs, and investment associated with trees with different
stakeholders
Recording appropriate tree attributes for calculating tree value
Using established tree value calculators to determine the value of tree
TASK B:
Explain accepted plant appraisal principles and approaches.

Knowledge
Appraisal approaches
Community tree benefits
Real estate value improvement
TASK C:
List possible regulatory ordinances and laws concerning trees.

Knowledge
Regional laws concerning wildlife management and habitat protection
Ordinances and tree preservation orders
Potential local laws and regulations
Regional permitting and licensing procedures
Skills
Accessing and maintaining reference materials
Referring to relevant laws and regulations from all levels of government
TASK D:
Utilize tools and equipment to safely conduct tree work.

Knowledge
Sustainable initiatives
Tree inventories
Pests and diseases management
Pruning/maintenance cycle
Diversity of species management and planning
Invasive species management
Planting plans, initiatives, and canopy cover goals
Skills
Collecting tree data onsite
TASK E:
Inform the public and various stakeholders regarding proper tree care and
management practices.

Knowledge
Industry-standard maintenance practices and tree care for trees in an urban
environment
Skills
Communicating with a diverse audience