When I tell people I’m a consulting arborist they often ask what is that? Everyone is familiar with tree care companies, but not so much what the role of a consulting arborist. The common conception is when there is a tree problem, call up a tree contractor and have them do the work.
Yet, there are many tree problems that require expertise beyond a tree care company. When a tree has a change in condition or conflicts with infrastructure, such as tree roots lifting up a sidewalk, a consulting arborist is required to assess the situation and make recommendations.
Consulting arborists have one or more certifications. The primary designation is a certified arborist. This designation is administered through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). The second and more difficult designation to obtain is that of Registered Consulting Arborist (RCA), administered through the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA). Consulting arborists with the RCA designation are the preeminent authorities on tree related matters.
To receive the RCA designation, an individual must already be a certified arborist. Once they meet the experience and education requirements, an applicant must enroll in the Consulting Academy. This rigorous training focuses on technical and report writing. Applicants who receive their RCA designation are trained to produce the highest quality written reports and work product, a terrific benefit for attorneys, insurers and professional consultants.
To learn more about registered consulting arborists, please click on the link below.