Two tree organizations, the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) and the International Society of Arborculture (ISA) are world renown leaders in Arboriculture. Both associations work toward the professional development of their members, and the overall advancement of the tree industry. Below is a brief recap of these organizations programs.

The American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) was developed to preserve the highest standards of performance in the field of arboricultural consulting. AXCA consulting arborist possess a high level technical and business skills, making them the preferred choice as experts. ASCA members are experienced in legal, environmental and regulatory arenas in addition to arboricutural areas. ASCA 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 International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) has been working hard with their members to raise the standard of professional tree care. Charged with the mission of Research and Education, ISA members are equipped with the latest in science based tree care information.

Members of both associations must keep up with continuing education requirements to maintain their respective designations.

Arboricultural Association designations in order from highest to least in terms of experience, training and qualifications.

ASCA Registered Consulting Arborists

There is neither 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 wiht credible and reliable information.

ASCA Consulting Arborist

ASCA Consulting Arborists possess the highest level of tehcnical and business skills in the indsutry, making them the preferred choice as authoritative experts. ASCA members are trusted and respected authorities in legal, environmental and regulatory arenas, among other -- giving you the distinct advantage when you select a designated ASCA Consulting Arborist. ASCA Consulting Arborists are committed to continuing their development of knowledge and skills as industry leaders.

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 "point" defined by ISA. A minimum of eight points are required, obtained through measurable experience, formal education, related credentials, and professional experience. The computer-based exam covers science, practice and management.

ISA Certified Arborist / Specialist

This group of credential holders is for ISA Certified Arborists who have additional training in specialized areas such as Utility and Municipal Forestry.

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 arboricuture.

Further information on these professional designations can be obtained from visiting the respective organizations web sites:

American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA)

www.asca-consultants.org

International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)

www.isa-arbor.com