" I've known Ken and Rip for a long time, and I've always respected their work.  In 1999, as the Vice President of Bartlett's Utility Services Operations throughout the United States, I was seeing a drop in production and a rise in the frequency of accidents. While I felt that I had a solid safety and training program in place, my managers agreed that a different approach might be helpful.  In the utility world of unit pricing, we felt that any improvement in the skill level of our crews would give us a competitive advantage.

When I first sat down and explained my training needs to ArborMaster, it was clear that they were listening to my concerns and goals.  Ken and Rip tailored a program to meet my specific needs, and implemented the training. I personally spoke with each individual who went through the training.  It amazed me to see how they responded.  I remember one crew leader telling me that it was the first time anyone had ever taken an interest in him. What I found even more interesting was the impact it had on the individuals who didn't attend the training.  Everywhere I went, I saw people using the techniques. Numerous workers asked me if they would get a chance to go ArborMaster training.  After hearing that in several different operations, I made up my mind to make this training a regular event.  This investment paid off.  I saw a substantial improvement in the amount of trees trimmed and removed each week, which on a unit job can mean thousands of dollars directly to the bottom line.  

In this business, sometimes we all focus on all the reasons why not to do something; instead of looking for reasons why to do it.  I found a reason why to engage ArborMaster.  My operation's morale improved, its safety improved, and it became more profitable.  I hope that you find the same reason.

Dr. Dave Marren, Bartlett Tree "

Fast Facts & FAQs
Is there any homework prior to coming to the class?
Yes, if you are enrolled in the Level 1 Tree Climbing Methods module, you will be receiving a knot workbook prior to the start of the program. There will be a list of knots you will be required to know and a list of knots we would like you to at least be familiar with.

As you advance through the ArborMaster courses, our best advice is to practice, practice, practice and then practice some more. This will help to build a foundation and prepare you to learn and employ the skills taught in the more advanced modules.

What equipment will I need for the class?
It depends on which course(s) you have enrolled in. Select the course you are attending below for information on equipment to bring.


Do I need any prior experience to take your courses?
No and Yes.

Some of our courses do not require any prior experience however we do require that you hold full time employment in the green industry as an arborist, in a hands-on role supporting arborists, or other related role in which you use arborist equipment on a regular basis. Courses are not offered to private homeowners or for recreational tree climbing purposes.  

Please contact us should you have any questions regarding your eligibility to attend.

Are there course pre-requisites?
Select the course you are attending below for information regarding pre-requisites.


I already have 5 years of climbing and chainsaw experience.  Why do I need to take the pre-requisites before I can enroll in the Level 1 Rigging module?
While there is a short answer to this question, we feel the answer and our reasons are important enough to create this lengthy answer.  More information...

I am an ISA Certified Arborist.  How many CEU’s will I receive?
8 CEU’s are awarded for completion of each day of training. A certificate will be provided for you to submit to the ISA for credit for the classes.

I hold my CTSP Certification. Will I receive CEU’s for taking the ArborMaster modules?
Yes, the same holds true for CTSP Certifications. 8 CEU’s are awarded for completion of each day of training.

What is the cost of your Open Enrollment courses?
Most ArborMaster modules are 2-day courses.  The more modules you take in one vist/location, the more you save.  

For example:

-  (1) 2-Day module:  $499   
-  (2) 2-Day modules in one visit/location:  $939 (savings of $59)  
-  (3) 2-Day modules in one visit/location:  $1352 (savings of $145)

What’s included in the price of a module?
  • 8 hours of instruction each day
  • Arborist Equipment & Chain Saw Discounts
    Upon completion of one ArborMaster module, each participant receives a one time 10% savings on arborist equipment from SherrillTree (redeem online at www.SherrillTree.com); upon completion of our Level 1 Precision Felling module, a 15% savings on one Husqvarna chain saw and/or Husqvarna personal protective equipment at participating dealers; an ArborMaster tee shirt 
  • Gear valued at $65 to include:
    150' of Zing It Throw Line; Two Throw Bags (10 0z & 14 oz) and Prusick cord (courtesy of Samson Rope and Sherrill Tree)
  • Gear for the students to share during the classes
  • 16 ISA CEU's for each 2 day module and 24 CEU's for each 3 day module
  • Course Workbooks
  • Knot workbook for both the Level 1 Climbing and Level 1 Rigging courses


*Meals and accommodations are additional

Can you provide suggestions for local places to stay and directions to the training site?
Local accommodations options are listed here. Directions and a map to the actual training site will be sent to you approximately 1-2 weeks prior to the start of the course.


Lunch arrangements
We suggest that you bring a cooler packed with water and your lunch to the class each day.  As lunch break is typically for 45 minutes, this will save time having to leave the site to purchase lunch.

Is the course available?
Space is available on a first come, first serve basis.  As we only offer a limited number of courses each year, they tend to fill quickly.  However, you may request to be placed on a waiting list.

Am I confirmed for the program?  I sent my registration in by mail but have not heard back yet.
Courses are on a first come, first served basis. Upon receipt of a signed registration form and full payment, we will be communicating with you as follows:

You will be receiving two notices:
  • If the course is available when we receive your registration, you will receive a 'confirmation of registration' notice*
  • A final course confirmation, which will include the directions to the site and any final program details will be sent 1-2 weeks prior to the course.

Classes are expected to fill, however if we do not have the minimum number of participants 30-21 days prior, the course(s) may be rescheduled or cancelled. If this is to occur, we will advise you at that time and a full refund will be applicable.

*If the course is sold out upon receipt of your registration, we will contact you to discuss if you would like to be placed on wait list or consider another location.

Don't see your question answered here?
Please visit our Contact Us section and send us an email or call directly at 860.429.5028.