Summary

In this episode of the Tree Actions podcast, Dwayne, Tony, and guest Steve Chisholm discuss Steve's connection to trees and his journey in the tree care industry. They explore topics such as the evolution of tree care practices, the impact of historical events on the industry, and the challenges of retaining employees in a family business. The conversation also touches on the importance of tree preservation and the misconceptions surrounding the role of trees in oxygen production. In this conversation, Steve Chisholm and Dwayne discuss the state of affairs with credentialing and trade associations in the tree care industry. They talk about the historical progression of credentialing in New Jersey and the challenges faced in making an arborist licensing process. They also discuss the role of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the development of certification standards. Steve shares his perspective on the tight-knit community in the tree care industry and the value of networking at conferences. They touch on the importance of ethics in the industry and the changes in the ISA's code of ethics. They also discuss the use of cranes in tree work and the legislative battles surrounding their use. Finally, they talk about the A300 standards for tree care and the different approaches to pruning.

Takeaways

• Tree care practices have evolved over time with advancements in technology and tools.
• Historical events and political factors have influenced the tree care industry, such as changes in tree preservation attitudes and land use.
• Retaining employees in a family business requires creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.
• Trees play a vital role in oxygen production, although other factors like algae and plankton also contribute.
• Building a successful tree care company involves treating employees like family and fostering strong relationships. Credentialing in the tree care industry has a rich history, with New Jersey having the oldest and toughest exam in the nation.
• Trade associations like the ISA play a crucial role in developing certification standards and promoting professionalism in the industry.
• Networking at conferences and events is a valuable opportunity to connect with peers, share knowledge, and improve the industry as a whole.
• The use of cranes in tree work has faced legislative challenges, but standards and guidelines have been developed to ensure safe practices.
• The A300 standards for tree care provide detailed guidelines for pruning and other tree care practices, with a focus on safety and best practices.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Guest Introduction

08:22
Historical and Political Impact on the Tree Care Industry

16:18
Challenges and Strategies for Retaining Employees in a Family Business

39:23
The Role of Trade Associations in Promoting Professionalism

52:49
The Legislative Battles Surrounding the Use of Cranes in Tree Work

• Chris Girard
• Laurie Prince
• Peter LaRue
• Scott
• jason dommer
• Andrew Hordyk
• Mark Przekurat
• Michael Tain
• Dwayne Sr.

Summary

Judy Shigo, daughter of Dr. Alex Shigo, shares memories of her childhood and her father's passion for trees and mushrooms. She recalls how they would explore the woods together, build forts, and appreciate the smells and beauty of nature. Judy also discusses her father's transition from working for the Forest Service to pursuing his own research and writing books. She highlights his attention to detail, his emphasis on connections and terminology, and his dedication to educating others. Additionally, Judy mentions her father's artistic side, his love for music, and his ability to find balance between work and recreation. In this conversation, Judy and Dwayne discuss various aspects of Al Shigo's work and legacy. They talk about his research on the impact of wood on the sound of musical instruments and his book titled 'Music, Vibrations and More'. They also discuss Al Shigo's approach to education and his emphasis on accurate information and research. They touch on his publications, ranging from basic booklets to technical books, and his focus on teaching people about trees. They remember his punctuality and respect for others' time, as well as his ability to connect with people and engage in meaningful conversations. Judy and Dwayne go on to discuss the impact of trees on their own lives and the importance of understanding tree biology. They mention Al Shigo's book 'Pithy Points' and its unique blend of humor, philosophy, and educational content. They highlight the importance of simplicity and repetition in conveying messages about trees. The conversation concludes with a reflection on Al Shigo's passion for trees and his lasting impact on the field of arboriculture.

Takeaways

• Dr. Alex Shigo's passion for trees and mushrooms influenced his daughter Judy from a young age.
• He emphasized the importance of connections and terminology in his work and teaching.
• Judy recalls her father's transition from working for the Forest Service to pursuing his own research and writing books.
• Dr. Shigo had an artistic side and enjoyed music as a form of recreation.
• He found a balance between work and leisure, and his love for nature and education was evident in all aspects of his life. Al Shigo conducted research on the impact of wood on the sound of musical instruments, emphasizing the importance of wood quality and energy in producing different vibrational frequencies.
• Al Shigo's publications ranged from basic booklets to technical books, catering to different levels of understanding and providing information for a wide range of readers.
• Al Shigo was punctual and respected others' time, emphasizing the importance of keeping presentations on schedule and giving everyone a fair chance to speak.
• Al Shigo had a passion for trees and a deep understanding of tree biology, which he aimed to share with others through his books and educational efforts.
• Al Shigo's book 'Pithy Points' offers a unique blend of humor, philosophy, and educational content, encouraging readers to think differently about trees and their care.
• Al Shigo's legacy extends beyond his own accomplishments, as he inspired others to conduct research, seek accurate information, and continue learning about trees.

Chapters

00:00
Childhood Memories and the Love for Trees

08:35
Transition from Forest Service to Independent Research

15:27
The Importance of Connections and Terminology

41:09
The Impact of Wood on Musical Instruments

48:31
A Range of Publications for Different Audiences

55:57
Passion for Trees and Understanding Tree Biology

01:06:14
Punctuality and Respect for Others' Time

01:19:19
Inspiring Others to Learn and Conduct Research

• Chris Girard
• Laurie Prince
• Peter LaRue
• Scott
• jason dommer
• Andrew Hordyk
• Mark Przekurat
• Michael Tain
• Dwayne Sr.

In this episode, Dwayne, Tony, and Brian discuss their first experiences and memories of feeling a connection to trees. Brian shares his childhood memories of climbing trees in his mom's and grandparents' backyards. They also discuss the importance of tree identification and how it can be a secret art. Brian talks about his journey into the tree care industry, starting with working for a Parks district and eventually starting his own business. Tony shares his perspective on the decision to be a business owner or a tree worker. The conversation explores the evolution of climbing systems and the impact of tree work on personal and family life. Brian shares his experience with different climbing systems and the restrictions and options available to Bartlett climbers. The conversation also touches on the big companies in the industry and the process of approving new gear and equipment. The conversation explores the process of bringing new ideas and innovations into the tree care industry. It discusses how climbers within an organization can propose new configurations or deviations from the norm and how these ideas are evaluated and implemented. The conversation also touches on the importance of relationships, empathy, and self-awareness in leadership, as well as the challenges of managing dissenters and maintaining a balance between innovation and safety.

Takeaways

• Childhood experiences with trees can create a lasting connection and love for them.
• Tree identification is an important skill for arborists and tree enthusiasts.
• The decision to start a business in the tree care industry depends on personal circumstances and goals.
• Being a business owner in the tree care industry requires balancing tree work and business management. The evolution of climbing systems in the tree care industry has led to the development of various options and configurations.
• Tree work can have a significant impact on personal and family life, with children often showing interest in the industry.
• Bartlett and other companies have protocols and restrictions in place to ensure the safety and consistency of climbing gear used by their employees.
• The process of approving new gear involves collaboration and discussion among regional safety managers and a voting committee.
• The big three companies in the industry are often considered to be Davey, Bartlett, and Asplund. The process of bringing new ideas and innovations into the tree care industry involves climbers proposing deviations from the norm and having them evaluated and implemented.
• Safety coordinators and managers play a crucial role in relaying innovative ideas from climbers to higher levels of the organization for evaluation.
• The evaluation process involves vetting the proposed ideas by regional teams, trainers, and skilled climbers to determine their feasibility and potential risks.
• Maintaining a balance between innovation and safety is essential, and it requires considering the potential risks and benefits of new configurations or equipment.
• Building strong relationships, practicing empathy, and being self-aware are important skills for leaders in the tree care industry to navigate challenges and manage dissenters.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Welcome

15:09
Brian's Journey into the Tree Care Industry

36:28
Balancing Tree Work and Personal/Family Life

48:20
Gear Approval and Restrictions in Bartlett

54:55
Balancing Innovation and Safety: Considering Risks and Benefits

01:06:14
The Importance of Relationships, Empathy, and Self-Awareness in Leadership

• Chris Girard
• Laurie Prince
• Peter LaRue
• Scott
• jason dommer
• Andrew Hordyk
• Mark Przekurat
• Michael Tain
• Dwayne Sr.