The Battlefords recently became home to the prairie chapter office of the International Society of Arboriculture. Worldwide, there are over 20,000 members. The prairie chapter, which includes Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta, has about 350 members.
What is arboriculture?
Arboriculture - the practice and study of the care of trees and other woody plants in the landscape.
What does the ISA do?
The ISA mission statement: Through research, technology, and education, the International Society of Arboriculture promotes the professional practice of arboriculture and fosters a greater worldwide awareness of the benefits of trees
Research: ISA is focused on research and the dissemination of results to contribute to a world with healthier trees, sustainable communities and a green economy.
Public awareness: ISA is recognized by the public as the worldwide network for science-based information on the benefits and care of trees.
The public recognizes the value of trees, the need for proper tree care and the benefits of trees to the environment.
Membership: ISA is a proactive, dynamic, and inclusive organization that provides for the needs of its diverse membership, resulting in engaged members that value the mission.
Professional development: ISA is a cohesive, inclusive network of practitioners, scientists and students that is recognized as the global source for arboricultural information and knowledge.
Promoting the profession: Arborists are recognized as qualified, competent and safe tree care professionals who are sought out the by the public, government organizations, and other professions.
Safety: Professional tree care practitioners have the required knowledge, training and expertise to perform proper tree care safely.
The local office manages the membership and financial affairs of the chapter, organizes educational workshops across the prairies, assists with the organization of the annual conference and tree climbing competition. In addition, the office stocks some of the newest and best tree care resources. These are available for sale not only to the membership but to the general public as well.
Now that the Prairie Chapter is headquartered out of the Battlefords, it is hoped that over time, the people of the Battlefords and beyond become more aware of proper tree care techniques and why those techniques make a difference to trees and our communities.
Don't forget, "A city without trees isn't fit for a dog."
