August Lunch and Learn: Georgia Forestry Commission's UAS Program & Their Uses in Forestry

Description:

• How to become a UAS Pilot

• General operating rules

• Our UAS Fleet

• General forest reconnaissance

• • Site preparation monitoring

  • Timber sale monitoring

• Monitoring for forest health issues

• • Pine bark beetle spots discovery

  • Inspecting crowns for forest health damage

  • Surveying storm damage

• Aerial Mapping to create georeferenced orthomosaic imagery

• Experimenting with tree inventory metrics obtained through Structure from Motion derived 3D point clouds

• Surveillance for illicit activities on State Lands

• Aerial Photography for educational and promotional materials

• (If there's time) Rx Burning & Fire Control

• • Aerial ignition with larger drone

  • Overwatch for Rx Burns and wildfires

  • • Find spot fires easily with thermal cameras

  • Portable fire towers for looking for smoke/potential wildfires

Who Should Attend

ISA Certified Arborists, municipal arborists, urban foresters, consulting arborists, tree care company managers, and anyone interested in becoming a drone pilot or using drones in their arboriculture practice.

About the Speakers: 

Matthew Mrizek is a Staff Forester with the Georgia Forestry Commission. His main responsibility is the manager of Dixon Memorial State Forest, Georgia's largest State Forest. He also assists with the management of GFC's UAS Program. He is a Registered Forester and has his Part 107 certificate. 

1 ISA CEU applied for. 

[Bilingual] Introduction to Competition Climbing: Skills Improvement Workshop

English AND Spanish

Friday August 21st, 2026

Legacy Park Decatur

500 S Columbia Dr, Decatur, GA 30030

8am-5pm

$250 public

$150 GAA members 

20 spots available 

This course is an opportunity for workers to sharpen their climbing skills from secured entry to descent, you will be trained on various methods, scenarios, and proper practices in tree climbing. Better your climbing skills with this competition prep course. 

Recommended for climbers with 18 months+ experience 

This is NOT a beginner's course 

Scenarios covered:

- Work Climb

- Throwline

- Aerial Rescue

- Open Ascent

- Belayed Speed

- SRT

- MRS

- Gear Check

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[Bilingüe] Introducción a la escalada de competición: taller de mejora de habilidades

Inglés Y español

Viernes, 21 de agosto de 2026

Legacy Park Decatur

500 S Columbia Dr, Decatur, GA 30030

De 8:00 a 17:00

250 $ para el público general

150 $ para socios de la GAA

20 plazas disponibles

Este curso ofrece a los trabajadores la oportunidad de perfeccionar sus habilidades de escalada, desde el acceso seguro hasta el descenso. Se impartirá formación sobre diversos métodos, situaciones y prácticas adecuadas en la escalada de árboles. Mejora tus habilidades de escalada con este curso de preparación para competencias.

Recomendado para escaladores con más de 18 meses de experiencia

se requiere experiencia adecuada

Simularios:

- Escalada de trabajo

- Lanza de rescate

- Rescate aéreo

- Ascenso abierto

- Velocidad con aseguramiento

- SRT

- MRS

- verificacion del equipo

upcoming!

Introducción a la trepa del arbol

Jueves 27 de agosto, 2026

500 S Columbia St Decatur, Ga 30030

8am-5pm

$250 publico / $150 GAA

para trepadores con 0 a 6 meses de experencia

Equipo proporcionado

curso en español 

Este curso esta diseñado para entrenar a los trabajadores de arbol que quieren empezar a trepar arboles y/o los que empezaron a trepar dentro de los ultimos 6 meses. Aprenderas sobre el equipo adecuado de trepar, metodos de trepar, seguridad en la escalada, y preparacion para trabajar como un trepador. 

El curso es adecuado para los que previamente no han trepado pero tienen interes en empezar. 

equipo limitado proporcionado, traer tu eqipo de trepar si ya lo tienes. 

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Introduction to Tree Climbing

Thursday, August 27, 2026

500 S Columbia St, Decatur, GA 30030

8 a.m.–5 p.m.

$250 Public / $150 GAA

For climbers with 0–6 months of experience

Equipment Provided

This course is in Spanish. If you do not speak Spanish but wish to attend, please contact me maria@georgiaarborist.org 

This course is designed to train tree workers who want to start climbing trees and/or those who have started climbing within the last 6 months. You will learn about proper climbing equipment, climbing methods, climbing safety, and preparation for working as a climber.

The course is suitable for those who have not climbed before but are interested in starting.

Limited equipment is provided; please bring your own climbing gear if you already have it.

Summer Workshop

8:00–8:30 Registration and Breakfast

8:30–9:00 Welcome and Safety Briefing

9:00–12:00 Morning Sessions

• Foundations Track 
  Basic Tree Biology/ID/Fungal ID
  Best Pruning Practices
  Chainsaw Safety
• Advanced Climber Track
  Cabling/Bracing 
  Gear Inspection
  Advanced Rigging

12:00–1:00 Lunch 

1:00–4:30 Afternoon Sessions

• Foundations Track
  Chipper Safety 
  Ground to Tree Communication and Leadership
  Intro to Climbing -- How to set up basic access to the tree
• Advanced Climber Track
  Advanced Felling Techniques
  Working with Cranes
  Mini Head to Head (as time allows)

4:30–5:00 Closing Discussion and CEU Sign-Out

 ISA CEUs applied for, CTSP credits.  A certificate of attendance will be provided for all other credentials

    

ISA Certified Arborist®  Exam Virtual Review Course

Location: Zoom

7 sessions

September 14th-October 5th, 2026

Monday/Wednesday: 4pm-7pm

You may access a copy of the full agenda HERE

Sponsored by:

Cost:

$100 - GAA Members

$168 - Non-members (includes 1 year of Membership to GAA)

***Scholarship Opportunities Available - see Important Notes section for process and eligibility***

Presented by:  

Rob Swanson and Kay Evanovich

About our speakers: 

Over seven sessions, experienced instructors and certified arborists Rob Swanson and Kay Evanovich will help attendees prepare for the exam with talks covering Tree Biology, Tree Identification, Soil Science, Water Management, Tree Nutrition and Fertilization, Tree Selection, Installation and Establishment, Pruning, Tree Support and Lightning Protection, Diagnosis and Plant Disorders, Plant Health Care, Tree Assessment and Risk Management, Trees and Construction, Urban Forestry, Tree Worker Safety, and Climbing & Working in Trees.  Attendees will also learn about eligibility for the exam and taking the exam.

***All registrants will receive a video recording of the classes at the end of each week***

IMPORTANT NOTES:

STUDY GUIDES

Attendees should combine this class with the study of the ISA Certified Arborists' Study Guide (not included in course registration).  The GAA has a limited number of copies available in exchange for a donation to the GAA.  You can make your donation here.

Exam Registration

Attendees are responsible for completing their own application for the exam through the ISA.  This is a 2 step process which begins with an application, and once approved by the ISA you can register for the exam date and location of your choice.  Exam fees are handled by ISA and are not included in registration for this course.  You can find a copy of the ISA Certified Arborist Application Guide HERE.  If you have any questions about the process, the GAA is happy to help!

ZOOM REGISTRATION

Please be sure to read all instructions within your event confirmation email to ensure you complete the final step of registering your email via Zoom.  This ensures you will receive the log in instructions/link/password ahead of the event.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships are available to tree board members and tree care workers employed by a city, county, school or university who are not already ISA Certified Arborists.  Scholarships are sponsored by the Georgia Forestry Commission.  Applicants must be employed within the State of Georgia.  Scholarship covers the $100 cost of the course, but does not include free membership.  You may apply for scholarship here.  If applying for scholarship please be sure to register to hold your spot - instead of paying just choose "invoice me". Scholarship application deadline is September 1.

10 CEUS AVAILABLE

***For those who want to register for the course as a refresher, and are already certified arborists you can receive 10 CEUS.  CEU sign in sheets are virtual and will be provided to the class in the chat window at the end of each session.  If you do not submit your sign in sheet, you will not receive CEUs.***

Questions? Contact GAA Administrator at 404-913-1422 or at info@georgiaarborist.org

TCIA- Tree Care Industry Association presenta

Capacitacion para especialistas en astilladoras

Vermeer SE 1320 Gresham Rd NE, Marietta, GA 30062

Sabado 19 de septiembre, 2026

8am-12pm

$35 publico, GRATIS para GAA

ISA CEUs disponible 

El curso de especialistas en astilladoras (chipper) está diseñado para proporcionar a los trabajadores conocimientos de seguridad y mejores prácticas para el funcionamiento de la astilladora. Este curso incluye:

• Tipos de astilladora y enganche
• Empezar
• Funcionamiento de la astilladora
• Mantenimiento de astilladoras
• Uso del cabrestante

El curso combina el aprendizaje en línea con demostraciones de habilidades en el sitio de trabajo. Al completar con éxito el programa, recibirá un certificado que demuestra su capacidad para aprender y retener valiosos conocimientos de la industria.

Instructor: Leo Roldan

Leo es un formador profesional afincado en Nueva York con más de 20 años de experiencia en arboricultura y una gran pasión por la educación bilingüe. Está dispuesto a desplazarse por la zona triestatal (Nueva York, Nueva Jersey y Connecticut) y, posiblemente, a Massachusetts, Delaware y Pensilvania. Leo cuenta con varias titulaciones importantes, entre las que se incluyen:

Arborista certificado por la ISA

Especialista en trabajos en árboles certificado por la ISA

Especialista en plataformas elevadoras certificado por la ISA

Profesional certificado en seguridad en el cuidado de árboles (CTSP)

Jefe de equipo cualificado

Gracias a su amplia experiencia, Leo se dedica a impartir formación y educación de primer nivel en el cuidado de los árboles y las prácticas de seguridad.

El curso de Especialista en Operadores de Trituradoras (astilladora) de la Industria del Cuidado de Árboles está diseñado para capacitar al personal de cuidado de árboles en los peligros, así como en las prácticas aceptadas para el funcionamiento de las trituradoras (astilladora) de ramas y otras tareas asociadas. Este curso brindará a los trabajadores de la cuadrilla de árboles una capacitación formal que aumentará la participación en el cumplimiento general de la seguridad de OSHA y la autovigilancia.

Las lesiones que involucran trituradoras (astilladora) de ramas y motosierras son una preocupación importante para las empresas de cuidado de árboles y los empleadores de paisajismo, así como para los trabajadores de cuidado de árboles que operan el equipo. La información anecdótica sólida del campo indica que los operadores de trituradoras (astilladora) y motosierras reciben poca o ninguna capacitación formal sobre el funcionamiento de las trituradoras (astilladoras) y las motosierras y el mantenimiento en el campo.

Los accidentes en los lugares de trabajo pueden ocurrir en cualquier momento y los profesionales del cuidado de árboles deben saber cómo reaccionar. Cuando un trabajador de árboles se lesiona o queda incapacitado, los compañeros de equipo son los primeros en responder a la situación de emergencia.

acerca el instructor, Leo Roldan

Leo es un entrenador profesional de Nueva York, apasionado por la educación bilingüe, con más de 20 años de experiencia. Solo por mencionar algunas de las cualificaciones que posee:

Arborista certificado por la ISA

Trabajador de árboles certificado por la ISA

Especialista en plataformas elevadoras certificado por la ISA

CTSP

Líder de equipo calificado.

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TCIA- Tree Care Industry Association presents

Spanish Chipper Specialist Training 

Vermeer SE 1320 Gresham Rd NE, Marietta, GA 30062

Saturday September 19, 2026

8am-12pm

$35 public, FREE for GAA

ISA CEUs offered

Ground Operations 2: Chipper Specialist is designed to provide workers with safety knowledge and best practices for chipper operation. This course covers:

Chipper Types and Hook Up

Getting Started

Chipper Operation

Chipper Maintenance

Using the Winch

The course blends online learning with on-the-job skills demonstrations. Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a certificate demonstrating your ability to learn and retain valuable industry knowledge.

The Tree Care Industry Association’s Chipper course is designed to train tree care personnel in hazards, as well as accepted practices for brush chipper operation and other associated tasks. This course will provide tree crew workers formal training that will increase involvement with overall OSHA safety compliance and self-policing.

Injuries involving brush chippers and chainsaws are a significant concern for tree care companies and landscape employers as well as the tree care workers who operate the equipment. Strong anecdotal information from the field indicates that chipper and chainsaw operators receive little or no formal training on chipper and chainsaw operation and field maintenance.

Accidents at job sites can happen at any time, and tree care professionals must know how to react. When a tree worker is injured or incapacitated, fellow crew members are the first to respond to the emergency situation.

about the instructor

Leo Roldan

Leo is a professional trainer from New York ,he has a passion for bilingual education, with more of 20 years of experience. Just to mention a few qualification that Leo has:

ISA certified arborist

ISA. Certified tree worker specialist

ISA certified aerial lift specialist

CTSP

Qualified crew leader

ISA TRAQ FULL COURSE -

TREE RISK ASSESSMENT QUALIFICATION 3.0

Published on Monday, September 15, 2025

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) will implement important updates to the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (ISA TRAQ) program effective 5 November 2025. Changes include updates to the educational materials and program as well as examinations as a response to the most recent Job Task Analysis and Standard Setting performed for the program.   

These updates and programmatic changes are also done based on international standards for this type of training and development program. It ensures the credential remains current, reliable, and aligned with industry standards. Read the full press release here. 

September 28-30, 2026

COURSE LOCATION: 

Rome-Floyd ECO Center

393 Riverside Pkwy NE, Rome, GA 30161

Instructor:

Jimmy Walters 

14.5 CEUs Available

Registration Deadline:

August 22, 2026

(Slots fill up fast!  Register now!)

Registration Cost:

$625 - Georgia Arborist Association & ISA Member Rate

$625 - Georgia Arborist Association Member Only Rate (not a member of the ISA)

$700 - ISA Member Only Rate (not a member of the GAA)

$795 - Non-Member Rate (not a member of ISA or GAA)

If you are interested in becoming TRAQ qualified, please take some time to read the “ISA TRAQ Application Guide” available here -  . The guide will provide details about the application process and let you know what pre-requisites are required to apply for the credential.

The TRAQ course and credential provide an opportunity for professionals in the arboriculture industry to expand their knowledge through education and training in the fundamentals of tree risk assessment. This qualification promotes the safety of people and property by providing a standardized and systematic process for assessing tree risk. The results of a tree risk assessment can provide tree owners and risk managers with the information to make informed decisions to enhance tree benefits, health, and longevity.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Earning the qualification requires attendance at a 2-day educational course followed by a ½-day assessment that includes both a written and field exams. The first two days are typically 8am-5pm and the third day (exam day) is 8am-noon. It is required that you attend the entire course and successfully complete the assessment in order to receive this qualification. Coffee and a light breakfast are typically included each day along with lunch the first two days. If overnight travel is needed you will need to make hotel reservations on your own.

At the bottom of this email you will find recommended accommodations as well as more information about the location

The course includes Tree Biology and Mechanics, Tree Inspection and Assessment, Data Analysis and Risk Categorization, and Risk Reporting. The Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) Course prepares the participant to take the TRAQ assessment to become ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified. Once registered, you will receive a Course Workbook that you can read and study to prepare for the course. The course manual is no longer included in the materials shipped to you. It can be purchased ahead of the course at a discount on the ISA webstore if you have already registered for the course (available after October 20th). It is strongly suggested that you read the materials prior to the course. Not all of the materials on the exams will be covered in detail in the classroom. The Manual and Workbook are essential parts of the learning process for this course.

Meet the Instructors:

Jimmy Walters: Certified Arborist since 1996. SC Registered Forester. 1971 graduate of Clemson University, BS Forestry. Retired with over 40 years service with SC Forestry Commission. Retired as Program Coordinator for Urban and Community Forestry in SC. Charter member of SC Urban and Community Forestry Council (now Trees SC).  Board of Directors, SC Vegetation Management Association, active in the SC Green Industry Association. Past President, Southern Chapter ISA and member of Florida Chapter as well. Now operating an arboricultural consulting firm, Urban Forest Advisors, LLC. Skilled teacher and public speaker. Many classes and lectures on Hazard Tree Management (old terminology) and Tree Risk Assessment prior to TRAQ. 

HOTEL BLOCK INFORMATION:

Coming soon. 

Disclaimers, Important Information, & Refund Policy:

• Applicants for TRAQ courses must register 30 days prior to the session they plan to attend. These classes often fill up quickly since class size is limited. Register as early as possible to avoid missing the location you want!

• The FULL course is required for those qualified applicants that wish to earn the TRAQ credential.

• This class provides the needed exams that must be passed to earn the TRAQ credential.

• Please bring your own hard hat and vest to the event.

• Please bring your government ID.

• Be sure to bring your course materials. 

***Cancellation & Refund Policy -
All cancellations made after the registration deadline of the event, no-shows, or those found to not have the required pre-requisites will not be eligible for refund. Cancellations made prior to the registration deadline/shipment of course materials are eligible for full refund. Cancellations made within 1 week of the registration deadline will be eligible for full or partial refund if GAA is able to fill their spot with a waitlisted registrant. All refunds are subject to a 3.5% credit card processing fee.

Árboles de Georgia: Caminata guiada + picnic

ingles y español 

gratis

acompaña a GAA, Latinx Hikers y amigos para una caminata especial en la naturaleza de Dalton, Georgia.

Visitaremos el parque ____ para aprender sobre los árboles actuales, la historia del lugar y algunas técnicas de identificación de árboles. La caminata tiene una distancia aproximada de ____ millas por un camino de dificultad _____.

Comenzaremos puntualmente a las 10:00 a. m. y a las 12:00 p. m. tendremos un picnic compartido.

Conéctate - aprende - interactúa

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Georgia Trees: Guided Hike + Picnic

English and Spanish 

free

Join GAA, Latinx Hikers, and friends for a specialty nature walk + social in Dalton, Ga.

We will visit __ park to learn about the current trees, history of the site, and some tree ID skills. The nature walk is approximately __ miles distance on a ___ level trail. 

we will bein promptly at 10am followed by a pot luck picnic lunch at 12pm.

Network - Learn - Connect 

Learn more about Latinxhikers here: https://www.wearelatinxhikers.com/

Learn more about the City of Dalton, Ga: https://www.daltonga.gov/519/History-of-Dalton-Georgia 

This practical, applied program guides arborists through the process of strategically planning, specifying, and implementing an objective-based pruning approach. It will make you a better arborist by showing you how to incorporate industry standards and ISA BMPs with current research and practice. The PPQ is the culmination of the commitment of the Florida Chapter ISA Pruning Credential Committee who are passionate about making trees more compatible with urban and suburban environments.

Vision statement: Develop a new industry paradigm whereby no tree – or group of trees – is pruned without a prescription.

Goal: Improve communication between prescriber, production arborist and tree owner. Increase clarity when preparing work orders.

What this program does: The new paradigm shifts the decision of which branches to prune from the production arborist to an informed prescriber. It establishes a protocol resulting in consistency between the arborist preparing the prescription and the production arborist. This credential teaches you how to prescribe and perform pruning in accordance with industry standards and ISA’s BMP supported by the latest research and experience.

Why should I get this qualification?

1. Improves professionalism for new and seasoned arborists.
2. Establishes a standardized, accountable, objectives-based pruning process.
3. Teaches an approach that increases life expectancy and clearance and reduces likelihood of failure.
4. Improves your ability to explain to tree owners, contractors, and crew why and how to prune.

Who should get this qualification?
Arborists who prune trees or prescribe pruning or people who prepare and manage pruning contracts.

There are two types of attendees for this training: Producers and Prescribers

A production arborist (Producer) working in trees, or anyone, seeking an organized process of evaluating tree owner and arborist conditions of concern, and an approach to pruning designed to solve these concerns.

A pruning prescriber (Prescriber) is a certified arborist.

Two training tracks are offered: (1 DAY Registration only)
Day 1 – Producers –Spend the day with Dr. Ryan W. Klein
Producers are finished with the training at the end of day one, and each receives a certificate of completion. There is no exam. ISA certification is not a prerequisite.

Day 1, 2 and 3 – Prescribers – Take your knowledge to the next level! No walk in registration will be allowed for this option.
The second and third day of training focus on preparing pruning prescriptions using many examples which include outdoor exercises. This is an interactive program with many activities. There is a review and a multiple-choice exam on the third day. Those passing the exam become PPQ qualified.-Must be an ISA Certified Arborist.

Manual: Producers and prescribers each receive a Pruning Prescription Manual and Workbook.

For more information on the qualification - please link to the Florida ISA website 

Prescription Pruning Qualification – Florida Chapter ISA (floridaisa.org)

Agenda:
Day 1: Producers and Prescribers in the same class

• Introduction with definitions
• Tree Architecture
• Response to Pruning Cuts
• Guiding Urban-compatible Tree Architecture (pruning)

Day 2: Prescribers only

• Prescription Approach to Pruning
• Preparing Prescriptions
• Outdoor Prescription Exercises and Discussion
• Mature Trees and Palms

Day 3 (half day): Prescribers only

• Review
• Exam

About the Speakers:

Dr. Ryan Klein, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Horticulture at the University of Florida. His research focuses on the risk associated with urban trees and their survival following hurricanes and other intense storms. Ryan’s interests center around exploring the impacts that urban forests have on the health and safety of urban populations. He views the relationship between people and their natural surroundings as being especially significant since most of the world’s population live in urban areas and urban sprawl continues to consume our remaining natural spaces. Ryan is currently the Education Representative on the Florida Chapter ISA Board of Directors and is a member of the Education Committee

Rob Calley serves as the small production company representative on the PPQ Committee. Rob is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA) and Certified Arborist (CA), He is also a Certified Tree Care Safety Professional (CTSP) and has the ISA TRAQ Assessment (TRAQ) and Florida Chapter ISA PPQ. He was president of the Florida Chapter ISA in 2020 and currently serves as the Chair of the Florida Chapter Marketing Committee. He is the recipient of “The True Professional of Arboriculture Award” in 2019.

Elevador aéreo 1: Fundamentos

(español)

Jueves 29 de octubre, 2026

8am-12pm

Boutte Tree 2158 Bolton Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

$25 miembros del publico

GRATIS para GAA

El curso «Plataformas elevadoras 1: Fundamentos» está diseñado para brindar a los trabajadores conocimientos sobre seguridad y las mejores prácticas para el manejo de plataformas elevadoras.

Este curso incluye:

El curso combina el aprendizaje en línea con demostraciones de habilidades en el sitio de trabajo. Al completar con éxito el programa, recibirá un certificado que demuestre su capacidad para aprender y retener valiosos conocimientos de la industria.

----------

Instructor: Leo Roldan

Leo es un formador profesional afincado en Nueva York con más de 20 años de experiencia en arboricultura y una gran pasión por la educación bilingüe. Está dispuesto a desplazarse por la zona triestatal (Nueva York, Nueva Jersey y Connecticut) y, posiblemente, a Massachusetts, Delaware y Pensilvania. Leo cuenta con varias titulaciones importantes, entre las que se incluyen:

Arborista certificado por la ISA

Especialista en trabajos en árboles certificado por la ISA

Especialista en plataformas elevadoras certificado por la ISA

Profesional certificado en seguridad en el cuidado de árboles (CTSP)

Jefe de equipo cualificado

Gracias a su amplia experiencia, Leo se dedica a impartir formación y educación de primer nivel en el cuidado de los árboles y las prácticas de seguridad.

Aerial Lift Operations 1: Fundamentals (Spanish)

Thursday october 29, 2026

8am-12pm

Boutte Tree 2158 Bolton Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

$25 Tree care professionals

FREE for GAA

Aerial Lift 1: Fundamentals is designed to provide workers with safety knowledge and best practices for aerial lift operation.

This course covers:

General Safety Inspection

Preparation and Driving

Work Site Set-Up

Aerial Lift Operation

Chain Saw Use

Tricky Situations and Compact Lifts

Learners gain knowledge on the principles, best practices, and safety standards in this online course, ensuring they are well prepared for related on-the-job training and skills demonstrations. Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a certificate demonstrating your ability to learn and retain valuable industry knowledge.
2.75 ISA CEUs2.75 CTSP CEUs

Instructor: Leo Roldan

Leo is a professional trainer based in New York with over 20 years of experience in arboriculture and a deep passion for bilingual education. He is available to travel throughout the Tri-State Area (New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut) and, potentially, to Massachusetts, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. Leo holds several key certifications, including:

ISA-Certified Arborist

ISA Certified Tree Work Specialist

ISA Certified Aerial Work Platform Specialist

Certified Tree Safety Professional (CTSP)

Qualified Crew Leader

Thanks to his extensive experience, Leo is dedicated to providing top-tier training and education in tree care and safety practices

 

Rescate Aéreo

Rescate de plataforma elevadora + rescate de escalador de árboles

viernes 30 de octubre del 2026

8am-5pm

                Boutte Tree 2158 Bolton Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

$150 para profesionales

$100 para miembros de la GAA

traer tu equipage de trepar

8 CEUs disponible

El entrenamiento de rescate aéreo prepara a los escaladores para los escenarios más probables en los que pueden tener que responder a una emergencia mientras trabajan en altura. Este curso es práctico con participantes que realizan activamente rescates utilizando diversas técnicas.

Lista de equipos para entrenamiento de rescate aéreo:

1. Casco z89 clase E

2. Gafas de seguridad z 87

3. Harnees de arbolicultura

4. Cuerda de trepa

5. Salvaramas

6. 5 Mosquetones total

7. 1 Acollador ajustable

8. Sistema de trepa (nudo polea/zigzag, ect)

9. Espuelas de trepa.

- Este es un listado del equipo mínimo para el rescate aéreo. Todo equipo debe estar en condiciones optimas y siguiendo las especificaciones del fabricante (no alterado).

CEUs ofrecidos 

ISA Certified Arborist: 8

Practice: 8

Utility Specialist: 8

Municipal Specialist: 8

Climber Specialist: 8

Aerial Lift Specialist: 8

 instructor

AXEL AVILA

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Aerial Rescue

Aerial lift rescue + tree climber rescue 

Friday October 30th, 2026

8am-5pm

                Boutte Tree 2158 Bolton Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318

$150 for tree care professionals

$100 for members of GAA

bring your climbing gear

Aerial Rescue Training prepares climbers for the most likely scenarios where they may have to respond to an emergency while working at height.  This course is hands on with participants actively performing rescues using various techniques

Required Gear List for the aerial rescue training:

1. Helmet z89 class E

2. Safety glasses z 87

3. Climbing Harness

4. Climbing rope

5. Friction saver

6. 5 Carabiners

7. 1 safety lanyard

8. Climbing system

9. Climbing spikes

- This is a list of the minimum equipment need for the aerial rescue. All equipment must be in good conditions and following manufactures specifications (not altered)

CEUs offered 

ISA Certified Arborist: 8

Practice: 8

Utility Specialist: 8

Municipal Specialist: 8

Climber Specialist: 8

Aerial Lift Specialist: 8

 instructor

AXEL AVILA

28th Annual

Georgia Tree Climbing Championships

November 6th-8th, 2026

Violet F. Stout Park

5420 Stout Pkwy SW

Lithia Springs, Georgia

General Timeline for Sponsors Below -

more detailed schedule & set up map to be distributed closer to the event

• Friday, November 6th
• • Check in 
  • Camp & Sponsor Set up (outdoor in main lawn)
• Saturday, November 7th
• • 8 am-4 pm - Georgia Tree Climbing Championships
  • 6 pm-8 pm - Awards Dinner
  • 9 pm-11 pm - After Party
• Sunday,  November 8th
• • 8 am-12 pm - Masters Climb
  • Camp & Sponsor break down & departure

  
  

• 

• Sponsorship Levels:

  ***PLEASE NOTE - Deadline for sponsors to be included on event t-shirt/banner is October 20th***

  • Signature Sponsor: $3500 (Limited to 3 Sponsors) - includes recognition for providing Awards Dinner, priority representation on event banner, 4 Awards Dinner Tickets,  Outdoor Exhibit, logo visibility on event emails, announcements, and event t-shirt
  • Platinum Sponsor: $1750 - includes priority representation below Signature Sponsors on event banner, 4 Awards Dinner Tickets, Outdoor Exhibit, logo visibility on event emails, announcements, and event t-shirt
  • Gold Sponsor: $1000 - includes priority representation below Platinum Sponsors on event banner, 2 Awards Dinner Tickets, Outdoor Exhibit, logo visibility on event emails, announcements, and event t-shirt
  • Silver Sponsor: $750 -  includes priority representation below Gold Sponsors on event banner, 1 Awards Dinner Ticket, logo visibility on event emails, announcements, and event t-shirt
  • Bronze Sponsor: $500 - Logo visibility on event emails, announcements, and event t-shirt

  NEW THIS YEAR! KOOZIE SPONSOR -$1250

  Put your logo in everyone's hand! As the exclusive Koozie Sponsor, your company logo will be featured on the commemorative koozies distributed at the 28th Annual Georgia Tree Climbing Championship.

  Every competitor, judge, volunteer, sponsor, and event staff member will receive a complimentary koozie to keep their beverage cold throughout the weekend—providing your brand with lasting visibility both during and after the event.

  Don't miss this fun new sponsorship opportunity to keep your company front and center all weekend long!

Other Sponsorship Options

Food and Beverage Sponsorship Opportunities: 

Friday Night Social Sponsor: $1000 (limit 2) -- Includes recognition at Friday night social and the chance to speak for up to 5 minutes about your organization.

Saturday Lunch Sponsor: $500 (limit 3) -- Includes recognition at the Awards Banquet. Logo visibility and recognition on event emails. Can provide stamps or stickers on food wrapping (if available).

Saturday Awards Dinner Sponsor $2500 (limit 1) -- Includes recognition at Saturday Awards Ceremony, a chance to speak for up to 5 minutes about your organization and logo visibility on event emails and announcements. Ability to have logo visibility on tables during event. 

COMPETITORS

Thank you SPONSORS

VOLUNTEER

28th Annual

Georgia Tree Climbing Championships

Volunteer Registration

November 6-8th, 2026

Violet F. Stout Park

5420 Stout Pkwy SW

Lithia Springs, Georgia

Volunteers are critical to a successful tree climbing championship. 

We cannot host this event without community support. It takes judges, technical volunteers, food runners, registration desk greeters, mulch spreaders, bag stuffers, trash managers, and a whole host of other behind the scenes people to make this event happen. Please consider donating a small amount of your time to help make this event successful. 

Judges and Technical Volunteers Register Here

This is at least one full day commitment on day of event. This is IN THE COMPETITION RING. If you do not have experience, but would like to learn, we welcome your participation, but please let us know so we can assign you a less technical position.

All Other Volunteers Register Here

This sign up is for general Volunteering with Various jobs as needed including: set up (stuffing bags, organizing tables, etc.), registration, swag sales, trash duty, parking assistance, lunch running, score running etc. You will assigned a position upon arrival based on the need at the time and your abilities

We also need sponsors. If you would like to learn more about Sponsorship, please visit this page. 

Discounted Hotel & FREE Camping Information

FREE camping is available at Violet Stout Memorial Park.

Important Reminder - we are representing our industry  and expect high community attendance which is a great opportunity to educate the public on proper arboriculture practices.  This event is at a public park so please abide by these rules:

• no smoking

• no open containers

• all pets on a leash 

• no open fires - sorry no fire pits

HOTEL INFORMATION

A discounted hotel rate of $119 a night is available at the Tru by Hilton Lithia Springs, 1270 Thornton Road Lithia Springs, Georgia 30122 USA. Please use this link to reserve your room or you may call the hotel directly at (678) 236-0005 and request the Georgia Arborist Association Group Rate. Make reservations by 10/6/26 for this price. (If you are staying before Friday, Nov. 6, or after Sunday, Nov. 8, please just call the hotel for the special rate on the extra nights.)

   

Curso de preparacion para el examen de arborista certificado por la ISA®

ISA Certified Arborist®  Exam Review Course

Ubicación: 

09, 10 y 11 de diciembre, 2026

8am-4pm

Costo:

$100 - Miembros de la GAA

$175 - No miembros (incluye 1 año de membresía a GAA)

$150- virtual (zoom)

***Oportunidades de becas disponibles: consulte la sección Notas importantes para conocer el proceso y la elegibilidad***

Presentado por:  

Miguel Sarabia, CA

About our speakers: 

Durante dos sesiones de día completo, el instructor y arborista certificado Miguel Sarabia ayudará a los asistentes a prepararse para el examen con charlas que cubrirán la biología de los árboles, la identificación de los árboles, la ciencia del suelo, el manejo del agua, la nutrición y fertilización de los árboles, la selección, instalación y establecimiento de árboles, la poda, el soporte de los árboles y la protección contra rayos, el diagnóstico y los trastornos de las plantas, el cuidado de la salud de las plantas, la evaluación de los árboles y la gestión de riesgos, los árboles y la construcción, la silvicultura urbana, la seguridad de los trabajadores de los árboles y la escalada y el trabajo en los árboles. Los asistentes también aprenderán sobre la elegibilidad para el examen y sobre cómo rendirlo.

 NOTAS IMPORTANTES::

Los asistentes deben combinar esta clase con el estudio de la Guía de estudio para arboristas certificados por la ISA (no incluida en la inscripción al curso). Los primeros 5 registrantes recibiran una copia de la guia gratis. 

Los asistentes son responsables de completar su propia solicitud para el examen a través de la ISA. Este es un proceso de 2 pasos que comienza con una solicitud y, una vez aprobada por la ISA, puede registrarse para la fecha y el lugar del examen que elija. Las tarifas del examen las maneja la ISA y no están incluidas en la inscripción para este curso. Puede encontrar una copia de la Guía de solicitud para arboristas certificados de la ISA AQUI. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre el proceso, ¡la GAA puede ayudarte!

Solicitantes

Hay becas disponibles para trabajadores de cuidado de árboles con un mínimo de 3 años de experiencia en la industria y que vivan o trabajen dentro del área del mapa CJEST 

Los solicitantes deben estar empleados dentro del estado de Georgia. La beca cubre el costo del curso y el libro de estudio, pero no incluye la membresía gratuita. Puede solicitar una beca aquí. Si solicita una beca, asegúrese de registrarse para mantener su lugar; en lugar de pagar, simplemente elija "facturarme". La fecha límite para solicitar la beca es el 15 de Mayo de 2025.

10 CEUS DISPONIBLES

***Para aquellos que quieran inscribirse en el curso como actualización y ya sean arboristas certificados, pueden recibir 10 CEU.******

 INFORMACIÓN DEL HOTEL 

 

¿Tiene preguntas? Comuníquese con un administrador de GAA al 470-768-8530 o al correo electrónico maria@georgiaarborist.org

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ISA Certified Arborist®  Exam Review Course

Location:

Sandy Springs City Hall, 1 Galambos Wy, Sandy Springs, GA 30328

December 09-11, 2026

8am-5pm

Cost:

$100 - GAA Members

$175 - Non-Members (includes 1 year of GAA membership)

$150- virtual attendance (zoom)

***Scholarship Opportunities Available - See Important Notes section for process and eligibility***

Presented by:

Miguel Sarabia, CA

About our speakers:

During two full-day sessions, instructor and certified arborist Miguel Sarabia will help attendees prepare for the exam with talks covering tree biology, tree identification, soil science, water management, tree nutrition and fertilization, tree selection, installation and establishment, pruning, tree support and lightning protection, plant diagnosis and disorders, plant health care, tree assessment and risk management, trees and construction, urban forestry, tree worker safety, and climbing and working in trees. Attendees will also learn about exam eligibility and how to take the exam.

IMPORTANT NOTES::

Attendees must combine this class with studying the ISA Certified Arborist Study Guide (not included in course registration). The first 5 registrants will receive a free copy of the guide.

Attendees are responsible for completing their own exam application through ISA. This is a 2-step process that begins with an application and once approved by ISA, you can register for the exam date and location of your choice. Exam fees are handled by ISA and are not included in registration for this course. A copy of the ISA Certified Arborist Application Guide can be found HERE. If you have any questions about the process, GAA can help!

Applicants

Scholarships are available for tree care workers with a minimum of 3 years of industry experience and who live or work within the CJEST map area.

Applicants must be employed within the state of Georgia. The scholarship covers the cost of the course and the study book, but does not include the free membership. You can apply for a scholarship here. If you apply for a scholarship, be sure to register to hold your spot - instead of paying, simply choose "bill me." The deadline to apply for the scholarship is May 16, 2025.

10 CEUS AVAILABLE

***For those who want to enroll in the course as a refresher and are already certified arborists, they can receive 10 CEUs.******

HOTEL INFORMATION

Have questions? Contact a GAA administrator at 470-768-8530 or email maria@georgiaarborist.org