Well Rounded.

There are so many different aspects to arboriculture. I think of the trees we care for, and their location and the people that own them. It's fascinating how many different types of jobs I'm able to do as a contractor; from pruning to cabling to restoration and unfortunately removals too.

I also think of the other arborists that I am so lucky to work with, and how talented they are and how I am able to saturate all of their knowledge in order to better myself as a practicing arborist. And I think of competition season and how I need to sharpen my competitive edge in order to push myself physically as a production climber.

What I'm really getting at here is that in order to be a great arborist, you have to be so well rounded. It's not about just doing some things good, it's about being able to do a tree right from underground issues to the terminal buds. And really understanding the science of trees, because that's really what it all boils down to.

Where do we look to find motivation on a daily basis? For me it's in the quality of tree care I can provide. Good collar cuts, efficient climbing, safe, clean rigging, sound inspection and observation while I'm on the ground and in the canopy, a nice clean-up, keeping my gear clean and organized, good documentation of my practices and demonstrating a constant respect for people's property. These are the things that keep me motivated as a production arborist. These are the things that I strive to deliver on because I know they make for good, well rounded arboriculture. That's what I'm about. The simple, good things. Everyday.