The Tree Expert and Tree Care Operators Licensing Act, passed in 2010 and updated in 2017, establishes a licensing program for Tree Experts (LTEs) and Tree Care Operators (LTCOs) in New Jersey. Licensees must pass exams, meet continuing education requirements, follow industry standards, and adhere to ethical and safety practices.

The Prescription Pruning Qualification (PPQ) is a voluntary qualification program developed and managed through the Florida Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture. Uniting commonly available, industry specific content in one course, the purpose of prescriptive pruning is to “improve the quality of tree care by introducing a process of tree evaluation before preparing an objectives-based prescription” prior to tree pruning (Gilman). Designed to increase the life expectancy and vertical clearance of trees, the PPQ program establishes a standardized, accountable, objectives-based pruning process.

Municipal and county governments can become accredited with the New Jersey Urban & Community Forestry program by developing and implementing a New Jersey Forest Service approved management plan for trees and forests, training and education, and annual reporting. Towns which are accredited with the New Jersey Urban & Community Forestry program have access to grants for development and implementation of their Community Forestry Management Plans and a basis for liability protection associated with local urban forestry programs.

TCIA’s Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP) program is the only individual safety credentialing program in the industry and is designed to address several of the safety challenges that tree care companies face. With more than 3,000 CTSPs in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, CTSPs are safety champions that are shaping the industry.

The Registered Consulting Arborist® (RCA) is ASCA’s premier level of membership. RCAs demonstrate their commitment to providing clients with the highest quality consulting services. While becoming an RCA requires an investment of your time, the good news is that you can move through the process at your own pace. And, the benefits to your consulting practice can be substantial.

SAF certification is the gold standard for forest management professionals, recognized by the forest industry, government officials, and landowners. Position yourself for success whether in career advancement or employee training.

In addition to offering Certified Forester® and Candidate Certified Forester® certification, SAF also has two specialized certifications – Certified Urban and Community Forester and Certified Forestry Technician. Earn respect for your commitment to high standards of practice and continuing education. Certification gives you the confidence to succeed regardless of the challenges you may be facing in forest management.