2025 Virtual Certified Arborist Study Group
2025-01-21 18:30 - 21:00, 2025-01-23 18:30 - 21:00, 2025-01-28 18:30 - 21:00, 2025-01-30 18:30 - 21:00, 2025-02-04 18:30 - 21:00, 2025-02-06 18:30 - 21:00, 2025-02-11 18:30 - 21:00, 2025-02-13 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
5 Week Workshop – Tuesday and Thursday evenings starting January 16 – February 13, 2025. Every Tuesday and Thursday will be 6:30pm – 9:00pm. Over the 5 weeks (9 sessions), we will be covering each of the domains associated with the certified arborist exam. The following week (Monday, February 17th), we will be offering a certified arborist exam in conjunction with the Annual Conference in Green Bay, WI. The cost of the exam is separate and paid directly to ISA. Information will be forthcoming on the exam. The exam will be available for everyone, not just class participants. So if you want to take the exam, it is best to start the application process early. The cost of the annual conference is a separate fee as well, if you wish to attend. Information will be forthcoming on the WAA website.

This is an VIRTUAL course. You are welcome to register for the full course. You can also choose to attend individual sessions. 2.5 CEU credits are available per session.

Leading industry subject matter experts are the instructors and this study group is tailored to the working arborist.

Location

Virtual Zoom Meeting – Meeting invites will be sent out closer to the start of the course.

Course Syllabus

Date Instructor Class Domain

Thurs., January 16th, 2025Jake KubisiakTree Physiology and BiologyTues., January 21st, 2025Glen Stanosz Plant Health Care/Diseases and TreatmentThurs., January 23rd, 2025Aaron SchauerSoil, Water and NutritionTues., January 28th, 2025Mike WendtClimbing and SafetyThurs., January 30th, 2025Nathan SchuettpelzRisk ManagementTues., February 4th, 2025Denny Fermenich Tree Establishment and PruningThurs., February 6th, 2025Don RoppoloTree Support and ProtectionTues., February 11th, 2025Denny FermenichTree ID and SelectionThurs., February 13th, 2025Ian BrownTrees and Construction /Urban ForestryMon., February 17th, 2025Franklin SeilheimerCertification Exam (NOT INCLUDED IN PRICING)

Our instructors:

Jake Kubisiak– Consulting Arborist, Wachtel Tree Science, ISA Board Certified Master Arborist

Dr. Glen Stanosz– Emeritus Professor of Tree and Forest Health at UW-Madison, and is an ISA Certified Arborist with the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification

Aaron Schauer– Program Director and Instructor of Arboriculture/Urban Forestry at Gateway Technical College

Mike Wendt- Retired Arboriculture/Hort. Instructor; Past WAA Tree Climbing Competition Champion

Nathan Schuettpelz– Consulting Department Manager, Wachtel Tree Science

Denny Fermenich– City Forester, City of Greenfield; Past president of WAA

Don Roppolo– Past President, Illinois Arborist Association; Davey Institute, Director of Arboricultural Training

Ian Brown– City Forester, City of Madison

Franklin Seilheimer– Urban Forestry District Manager, City of Milwaukee, DPW-Forestry

Cost:

$225 – WAA Member – Full Course (the person attending the course must be a WAA member to receive this pricing!)

$270 – Non-Member – Full Course (Includes one year membership)

$35 – Single Session

$90 – Study Guide (Recommended)

$15 – ANSI Standards (Recommended)

EXAM IS SEPARATE!

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Refunds will be made if requested on or before January 13, 2025 with a $25 processing fee.

There will be no refunds for cancellations made after January 13th, although substitutions may be permitted prior to January 16th. Refunds will only be considered in emergency situations at the Wisconsin Arborist Association’s discretion. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not attend the event.

Notice of cancellation and/or substitutions must be made by contacting Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website or by calling Tina Johnson at 262-899-0060. A cancellation acknowledgement will be sent within 3 working days and fees refunded within 10 working days, subject to this Return Policy. We do not issue refunds once the event has occurred/started.

Questions or Need Help Registering?

Contact Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website.

2025 WAA/WIDNR Annual Conference
2025-02-16 13:00 - 2025-02-18 16:00 | KI Convention Center, 333 Main St., Green Bay, WI, 54301, United States
60+ Years of Enhancing the Urban Forests in WisconsinFebruary 16-18, 2025Hyatt & KI Convention Center • Green Bay, WI

Green Bay can’t wait for the arborists to return for the WAA & WIDNR Annual Winter Conference! The Program Committee outdid themselves again with this year’s line-up. See details below.

Hotel Information

Reservations can now be made for the annual conference. We have blocks in three hotels this year!

Hyatt (host hotel)= Attached to KI Convention Center at 333 Main St. SOLD OUT (Hotels below still available)

Hampton Inn = Attached to KI Convention Center at 201 Main St., SOLD OUT (Hotels below still available)

Hotel Northland – 1 block from KI Convention Center at 302 N. Adams St., $140/night for a standard king, $160/night for a double queen, 920-393-7499. Indicate you are part of the WI Arborist Association Room Block or use this link: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1732737135839&key=GRP&guestreslink2=true&app=resvlink. Please make hotel reservations before January 31, 2025.

Quality Inn – 0.6 mi. from KI Convention Center at 321 S. Washington St., 920-437-8771, $85/night for a single or double room. Use this link to book a room: https://www.choicehotels.com/reservations/groups/EE59S0. Please make hotel reservations before February 2, 2025.

Alternative Hotels

St. Brendan’s Inn = 0.6 mi. from KI Conv Center at 234 S. Washington St., 920-884-8484

Hawthorn Suites = 2.7 mi. from KI Conv Center at 335 W. Joseph St., 920-435-2222

More can be found at:http://www.kiconventioncenter.org/explore-green-bay/hotels-and-overflow-facilities/

Registration Information

Download the Conference Brochure for the full agenda.

Registration available online until February 11th. WALK-UPS WILL BE WELCOME AT THE CONFERENCE AT DELAYED PRICING. Pre-Registration is now closed!

Early Bird Discount available until February 2nd. Prices will go up on February 3rd.

Registration Fees:

Early Bird Registration: WAA Member $300, Non-Member $325, Full-Time Students $70

Sunday Only: WAA Member $150, Non-Member $175

Monday Only: WAA Member $160, Non-Member $185

Tuesday Only: WAA Member $150, Non-Member $175

Delayed Registration Fee (after February 2nd): add $45 per person (except students)

To become a WAA member or renew your membership, click here. Not sure if you are a member, contact Tina Johnson at the link below for registration questions.

REGISTRATION COST IS PER PERSON. THIS MEANS THAT IF SOMEONE FROM YOUR COMPANY IS NOT A WAA MEMBER, THEY DO NOT GET MEMBER PRICING!

The Schedule & Location of Events Addendum is now available, so you can plan out your conference agenda and see how many CEUs/CTSPs are being offered per session.

Speaker Line-up (Click on links for information)- SEE BROCHURE FOR COMPLETE AGENDA

John Ball (Professor, South Dakota State University) 1. Improving Climber Safety and Efficiency 2. The New Z133-From A to Z

Ian Brown, (City Forester for City of Madison) Brian Friedrich – (Regional Forester, Wisconsin Public Service) Dave Scharfenberger – (Retired Owner, Wachtel Tree Science, Inc.) Different Career Paths and How to Succeed

Tim Bull (City Forester, City of Sheboygan) The Ins-and-Outs of Trunk Injections

Christine Carmichael (Founder and Principal,Fair Forests Consulting) 1. Who Doesn’t Want Trees? Barriers to Tree Equity and What We Can Do Better. 2. Advancing Environmental Justice Through Urban and Community Forestry.

Yujuan Chen (Associate Professor of Urban Forestry, Tennessee State University) 1. Fifteen Years of Urban Soil Restoration Work. 2. Urban Forests, Climate Change, and Environmental Justice from an International Perspective.

Casey Clapp (Owner/Principal, Portland Arboriculture) 1. What’s So Curious About This Tree is… 2. Practical Arborist Booths – Stepwise Journey of Tree ID 3. Opportunities When You Follow Your Passion.

David Drake (Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist, UW-Madison) Creating, Enhancing, and Managing Habitat to Support Urban Wildlife

Erich Ebert, John Kemppainen, Paul Morrison, John Stephenson– (Urban Wood Network) WE NEED YOU! What’s New in 2025 for Urban Wood Network-WI

Dennis Fallon (Executive Director of the Utility Arborist Association) Can too Much Communication on a Job Site be Dangerous?

John Wayne Farber (Director of Operations, Hoppe Tree Service) 1. New 2025, ANSI Z133 Update2. Certified Arborist Exam Review

Sam Finco (Contract Climber, The Arborist LLC), Johanna O’Boyle – (Owner, Ursa Minor Tree Care) Work Positioning: Tree Health, and Efficiency

Andrew Gollnick (Owner, Gollnick and Sons Tree Service), Isabel Krueger – (Certified Arborist, Gollnick and Sons Tree Service) Got Gas? We Don’t! Welcome to the World of Battery Tools – Parts 1 & 2

Joe Hansen (Village Forester/Tree Preservation Officer for the Village of Wilmette) 1. Trees & Construction: Regulations for Preservation 2. Illinois Urban Forest Strike Team

Richard Hauer (Director of Urban Forestry, Eocene Environmental Group) Tree Risk Assessment Intro

Jeff Joutras ( Certified Coach, Step Forward Into Growth Leadership) 1. Principles of Persuasion: How to Increase Your Level of Influence, 2. Everyone Communicates, Few Connect: What the Most Successful People Do Differently

Laura Jull (UW-Madison) – (Associate Professor and Extension Specialist, UW–Madison) What’s All The Buzz: Planting for Bees, Butterflies And Other Bee-t-ful Friends

Andrew Koeser – (Associate Professor,University of Florida) 1. Restoration Pruning of Storm Damaged Trees 2. Predicting Storm Failure

Gary Kohler – (Owner, GJ Kohler Trees & More LLC) First Aid- Injury Treatments

PJ Liesch – (Extension Entomologist, UW–Madison) Wisconsin’s Trending Insects

Cameron Lundin – (Owner, LundinTree LLC) How’d You Get Your Rope Up There?

Randall Miller – (Director of Research and Development, Eocene Environmental Group) 1) Tree Biology and Utility Pruning 101, 2) Integrated Vegetation Management

Jessika Mitchell – (Project Implementation Manager, Davey Resource Group, Inc.) Taking Tree Data Beyond the Basics

Eric Petersen – (President, ArboRisk Insurance) Trees, Storm Work and Insurance Companies

Hallie Ringhand (Owner, New U, LLC) Strong & Stable for Optimal Health and Longevity

Elton Rogers – (Urban Forestry Coordinator, WI DNR) 1. Statewide Arborist Apprenticeship Program Update 2. Which Street Tree Species are Failing Most Often?

Paul Schwabe – (Wholesale Sales Representative, Johnson’s Nursery LLC) Municipal Tree Bid Flaws: Nursery Perspective

Bob Smail – (Research Scientist, WI DNR) Modeling Urban Forestry Canopy in Wisconsin

Michael Tiller – (Assistant Professor of Forest Ecology, UW–Stevens Point) Exploring the Efficacy of Using Prescribed Fire to Manage Utility Corridors

Jay Weiss – (Executive Director, Cambridge Tree Project) The Case for Longevity in Tree Selection Criteria

Mike Wendt – (Wendtscapes, Retired Instructor, Milwaukee Area Technical College) Species Specific Pruning Suggestions

More details are available on the brochure above. Hope to see you there!

Second Annual Poster Presentations

We will be hosting poster presentation sessions again in 2025. A poster presentation is a great way to engage with peer professionals in sharing novel ideas and experience in the arboriculture, urban forestry, and landscape horticulture field.

Posters will be on display all day Monday and Tuesday morning. Presenters will be available for questions during Breaks with the Exhibitors.

Submit an online abstract (250-350 words, max) before Jan. 17, 2025 at this link: https://www.waa-isa.org/tribe-events/call-for-poster-presentations-at-the-waa-dnr-annual-conference-2/.

Questions? Ask Tina Johnson for more information.

Ascent Event Climbing Competition

Monday evening from 5:30-6:30 pm, right before the blue light special, the WAA TCC will be hosting an ascent event to see who is the fastest climber in GB land.

Climbers of all skill levels encouraged to compete.

Limited to the first 24 climbers to register.

Please register separately for this event by Feb. 14, 2025 at this link: https://www.waa-isa.org/tribe-events/ascent-event-climbing-competition-at-the-waa-dnr-annual-conference-2/.

Exhibitor Information

Click here for more information about the exhibitor booths. SOLD OUT!

Questions about becoming an exhibitor? Ask Todd Haefke for more information.

Sponsorship Information

Sponsorships are available! Click here for more information.

Still available: Breakout Sessions Sponsor, Business Track Sponsor

Questions about sponsorships? Ask Nate Schuettpelz for more information.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Refunds will be made if requested on or before January 31, 2025 with a $25 processing fee.

There will be no refunds for cancellations made after January 31, 2025, although substitutions may be permitted. Refunds will only be considered in emergency situations at the Wisconsin Arborist Association’s discretion. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not attend the event.

Notice of cancellation and/or substitutions must be made by contacting Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website or by calling Tina Johnson at 262-899-0060. A cancellation acknowledgement will be sent within 3 working days and fees refunded within 10 working days, subject to this Return Policy. We do not issue refunds once the event has occurred.

Registration Questions? – contact WAA Chapter Executive Tina Johnson

Call for Poster Presentations at the WAA/DNR Annual Conference
2025-02-17 07:00 - 2025-02-18 12:00
Wisconsin Arborist Association will be hosting poster presentation sessions for the 2nd time at the WAA/WI DNR annual conference in Green Bay on Feb 17th and 18th 2025. Poster presentation is a great way to engage with peer professionals in sharing novel ideas and experience in arboriculture, urban forestry and landscape horticulture field. Join the poster presentation by submitting an online abstract (250- 350 words max) before Jan 17th, 2025.

Submit Your Abstract by Applying Here

Goal of the poster presentation:

To provide opportunities for students, researchers, and professionals at the 2025 WAA/WI DNR’s Annual Conference to present, disseminate and highlight the practice of arboriculture, urban forestry, and landscape horticulture.

Poster Submission Application:

First and Last Name (primary author)

(if a student, include name of their research advisor, instructor, or supervisor)

Name and Address of your Institution/Agency/ Business/ Organization/ Others

Contact Info: Email, Phone Number

Choose the relevant poster category that you propose to present: A) Research B) Education C) Outreach Project D) Community Project E) Internship Project

Title of your poster and abstract (250- 350 words max)

Submission deadline: Jan 17th, 2025 (Friday)

Must be a registered attendee at the WAA/WI DNR annual conference during poster presentation.

General Guidelines:

Poster Size (inches): Minimum: 36” x 36”, Maximum: 44” x 44”

WAA provides: Designated space, Poster easel stand, foam board, binder clips (for poster attachment)

Poster Setup time: Mon. Feb 17th from 7:00 – 9:00 am

Poster Session Schedule during conference: (Authors must be at their poster during session time listed in the program to present their information and answer questions.) Mon. Feb 17th from 10:00 – 10:30 am / Mon. Feb 17th from 2:30 – 3:00 pm / Tues. Feb 18th from 10:30 – 11:00 am

Poster Removal Time: Tues. Feb. 18th from 11:00 – 12:00 pm (Note: All poster presenters will receive participant certificate and will be honored at the WAA Annual Conference Luncheon on Tues. Feb. 18th.)

Poster must avoid commercialism, promotion, or advertisement.

Font Size: 24 – 48 point font (that you can read from 2-3 ft. away)

Poster Content layout:

Poster Title:

Author(s):

Institution/ Business/ Organization/ Agency:

Address:

Content Layout:

Categories: (Choose one of the relevant category layouts as a guideline in designing your poster)

Research (Summarize research findings with statistical analysis) (include all the below)

a) Abstract b) Introduction c) Methods and Materials d) Results and Discussion e) Literature Citation; Include figures, tables, photos.

Education (Present a specific educational topic like Preventing Stem girdling root, Spotted lanternfly Management):

a) Goal b) Rationale c) Infographics d) Benefits e) Citation Sources

Outreach Program (Hands on activities/training programs for youths, underserved audience, professionals, and consumers):

a) Goal b) Rationale C) Program Planning and Execution D) Program Evaluation and Results E) Program Impacts and Outcomes; Include visuals, figures, tables

Community Project (engaging with local/ regional communities in urban forest development and management related projects like Champion tree project, Heritage Oak project):

a) Goal b) Rationale c) Impact of the project e) Future Steps F) Acknowledgement; Include visuals

Internship Project (Share a project experience that you completed while working with a company, organization, institute e.g. tree inventory, restoration):

a) Learning Objectives b) Key responsibilities c) Skills/ Techniques gained d) Overall experience e) Acknowledgement ; Include visuals

Resources:

Creating a poster: UW Madison, The Writing Center

https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/posterpresentations/

Internship Poster: Virginia Wesleyan University

https://www.vwu.edu/academics/the-lighthouse/internship-posters.php

Questions or need assistance?

Vijai Pandian, WAA Educational Advisor

Tina Johnson, WAA Chapter Executive

ISA Certified Arborist, Utility Specialist, and Municipal Specialist Exam
2025-02-17 12:00 - 16:00
Registration Deadline: January 30, 2025

Seats Available: 35

Minimum Seating: 5

Please check the ISA website (www.isa-arbor.com) for more information and for registration under Credentials/ Exam Information. Registration for the exam is made directly with the ISA, and must be completed at least 12 working days in advance. This is an application process that has certain requirements. Here is the webpage where you can find the application to apply for eligibility: https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials/Apply-Now/Apply-for-Eligibility.

Please contact ISA if you are having any difficulties with registration. Do not wait until the last minute to register!

Check-in starts at 12:00pm and exam begins promptly at 12:30pm. This exam is being held in conjunction with the WAA Annual Conference in Green Bay, WI.

Ascent Event Climbing Competition at the WAA/DNR Annual Conference
2025-02-17 17:30 - 18:30
Monday evening at the WAA/DNR Annual conference from 5:30-6:30 pm, right before the blue light special, the WAA TCC will be hosting another ascent event to see who is the fastest climber in GB land.

Register Here!

Climbers of all skill levels encouraged to compete.

Limited to the first 24 climbers to register.

Pre-registration is required.

Sign up deadline is February 14, 2025 (REGISTRATION DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED!)

What To Bring/What to Expect:

Please bring your approved ascent system for 11 mm Courant Rebel rope.

Proper PPE etiquette per ANSI standards will be followed for the event (not provided, must bring your own).

The WAA will provide full-body harnesses for all to use.

Two ropes will be set up for head-to-head competition.

Questions:

Contact Gary Kohler

WAA Kids' Climb
2025-05-03 09:00 - 13:00 | Veteran’s Memorial Park, 410 N. Lake St., Port Washington, Wisconsin, 53074
Veterans Memorial Park, 410 North Lake Street, Port Washington, WI 53074
Bring your family, children and neighbors for this Kids’ Climb event!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

To make these events successful we need help.
The Milwaukee area kids climb task force is hosting two kids climbs this season. We are looking for volunteers to help. There are many ways to get involved such as collecting waiver forms, fitting saddles and helmets on kids, belaying climbers or being an arborist in the tree. We have some new hardware and gear to use this year! We’d love to have a great showing of WAA volunteers to help support our mission.

Please use the sign up genius to sign up to help: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080B45A9A72EA7FA7-56249373-2025

Questions??? Contact August Hoppe

WAA Kids' Climb
2025-05-17 09:00 - 15:30
Kiwanis Youth Outdoors Day at South Wood Co. Park Address: 6411 South Park Road, Wisconsin Rapids, 54494
Bring your family, children and neighbors for this Kids’ Climb event!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

To make these events successful we need help.

We are looking for volunteers to help. There are many ways to get involved such as collecting waiver forms, fitting saddles and helmets on kids, belaying climbers or being an arborist in the tree. We have some new hardware and gear to use this year! We’d love to have a great showing of WAA volunteers to help support our mission.

To volunteer or questions please contact Luke Haas: lukehaas13@gmail.com

WAA 2025 Summer Conference
2025-07-31 07:30 - 16:00
Join us for the WAA Summer Conference at the Stayer Center at Marian University in Fond du Lac, WI on Thursday, July 31st. The Program Committee has organized Two Excellent Tracks of Education, one indoors and one outdoors, covering information on a plethora of topics. We will have outdoor demonstrations on advanced drone applications also. Be sure to enjoy the camaraderie of colleagues while feasting on a buffet lunch served in the Stayer Center Dining Room. We can’t wait to see you in Fond du Lac!

Click the links below for presentation descriptions and speaker bios.

On-line Registration Deadline: Sunday July 27, 2025. Pre-registration is now closed. WALK-UPS WILL BE WELCOME!

Registration Fees, if sent before July 17, 2025:

Members – $140 / Non-Members – $160

Full-Time Students FREE

Late Registration (after July 17th) $25 per person – Prices change on 7/18/25

WAA Member Dues/ Renewal: $45. Click here to renew or become a WAA member.(Membership is on an individual basis, not per company. Please pay the correct pricing – per individual!)

For more details about the program and to pay by check, please print off this BROCHURE.

Sponsorship Information

COOKIE BREAK sponsorships are still available! Click here for more information.

Exhibitor Information

Outdoor Exhibitor booth space is available for the event. Please bring your own pop-up tents and tables/chairs to use. Click here for more information.

Program

7:30am – 8:15am Registration

8:15am – 8:30am Welcome – Ian Brown, WAA President

Track One – Concurrent Indoor Sessions

8:30am – 9:30am Wood Banks & Urban Forestry: Exploring the Relationship – Jay Dampier, Rick Harper

9:30am – 10:30am Advanced Drone Applications for Vegetation Management –Leah Morris, Deborah Sheeler

10:30am – 11:00am Morning Break with Vendors

11:00am – 12:00pm Tree Planting: Costs & Considerations – Rick Harper

12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch

1:00pm – 2:00pm Working with Municipalities and Non-profits: Best Practicesfor Arborists and Consultants – Jay Dampier, Nicolle Spafford

2:00pm – 3:00pm Roadside Vegetation Management – Mark Renz

3:00pm – 4:00pm WI’s Recent Insect Trends – PJ Liesch

Track Two – Concurrent Outdoor Sessions

8:30am – 9:30am Aerial Rescue Preparation – Gary Kohler

9:30am – 10:30am Intro to UVM: Why, How and What Not to Touch –Samuel Prestidge

10:30am – 11:00am Morning Break with Vendors

11:00am – 12:00pm PHC and the Public –Joe Crawford

12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch

1:00pm – 2:00pm Climbing Devices: New and Old – Ryan Rodefer

2:00pm – 3:00pm PHC and the Public –Joe Crawford

3:00-4:00 pm Aerial Rescue: Real Scenario Application – Gary Kohler,EMS Services

Outdoor Demonstrations – New Equipment for 2025

11:00am & 1:00pm Advanced Drone Applications for Vegeta –tion Management – Leah Morris, Deborah Sheeler

Up to six CEUs are possible if you attend the full seminar.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Refunds will be made if requested on or before July 17, 2025 with a $20 processing fee.

There will be no refunds for cancellations made after July 17th, although substitutions may be permitted. Refunds will only be considered in emergency situations at the Wisconsin Arborist Association’s discretion. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not attend the event.

Notice of cancellation and/or substitutions must be made by contacting Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website or by calling Tina Johnson at 262-899-0060. A cancellation acknowledgement will be sent within 3 working days and fees refunded within 10 working days, subject to this Return Policy. We do not issue refunds once the event has occurred.

Questions or Need Help Registering?

Contact Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website.

ISA Certified Arborist, Utility Specialist, and Urban Forest Professional Written Exam - CANCELLED
2025-07-31 09:00 - 13:00
Registration Deadline: July 15, 2025

Seats Available: 30

Minimum Seating: 5

Unfortunately, the Exam has been cancelled for the summer conference due to a lack of participation. Look for our next written exam which will be scheduled in conjunction with our Fall Seminar.

Please check the ISA website (www.isa-arbor.com) for more information and for registration under Credentials/ Exam Information. Registration for the exam is made directly with the ISA, and must be completed at least 12 working days in advance. This is an application process that has certain requirements. Here is the webpage where you can find the application to apply for eligibility: https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials/Apply-Now/Apply-for-Eligibility.

Please contact ISA if you are having any difficulties with registration. Do not wait until the last minute to register!

Check-in is 9:00am, Exam begins at 9:30am. This exam is being held in conjunction with the Summer Conference in Fond du Lac, WI.

WAA 3rd Annual Youth T-Shirt Design Contest
2025-08-10 00:00 - 23:59
We are pleased to announce the third year of our Youth T-shirt contest! We hope all our members will encourage a child between the ages of 8 and 14 years old to submit a drawing.

Our 2025 theme will be “Trees in Song”

Here are the rules:

A child (or children) must simply be sponsored by a WAA member (there is no cost, but you must be a current member). The WAA member is responsible for submitting a scan of the drawing (Please keep the original!) to the Editorial Chair at briana@treehealthmgmt.com.

An E-Blast will be sent in early July when the contest will be live and announced on our website.

The drawing must be in black and white and must be submitted by August 10th, 2025 by 5:00pm.

Only one drawing per child will be accepted.

A panel of judges will meet on August 14th to select three finalists. The winning design will be voted on by current WAA members. All children’s names will be kept anonymous until a winner has been selected.

The winner will need to submit the original drawing via US Post or submit a high-quality digital scan (instructions will be provided). The drawing will be the new apparel design for WAA clothing in 2026. Apparel will be available for purchase to membership, and our winner will receive a choice of a free WAA T-shirt or sweatshirt.

All participants will have their drawing showcased in a digital format on the WAA website.

Questions? Contact Tina at admin@waa-isa.org.

Tips and Tricks:

A simple line drawing (vs any type of shading) makes for the best screen print on apparel.

Thicker, solid lines also work best for printing (BOLD YOUR LINES).

Our printer will work with the winning artist to refine areas for printing.

Please do include the theme “Trees in Song 2025” in the drawing.

Please do not sign the drawing.

Artists are encouraged, but not required, to include a paragraph describing their work and what it means to them in the submission email.

WAA 5th Annual Golf Outing
2025-08-15 07:00 - 14:00 | Broadlands Golf Club, 18 Augusta Way, North Prairie, 53153
Donations made by: Goodmark Nurseries. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

NEW THIS YEAR!

We are working with a new vendor called GOLF STATUS to help run our golf outing.

Registration, sponsorships, raffle tickets and wristbands can be purchased at this link.

Raffle tickets and wristbands can be purchased on site also.

Where:

Broadlands Golf Club (18 Augusta Way, North Prairie, WI 53153)

When:

Friday, August 15th

Shotgun Start: 8 am

Check In Begins at 7 am

Golf Outing Package – $540/foursome includes (individuals welcome at $135 each):

18 Holes

Foursome Greens Fees & Cart

Meals (Breakfast and Lunch)

2 drink tickets per golfer

Swag Bags

Sponsorships (sponsorship forms available here to pay by check)

NEW SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE THIS YEAR! See GOLF STATUS website for details/ to pay by credit card.

Event Sponsor – $1200

Hole-in-One Sponsor – $1000

Flag Sponsor – $1000

Hole Event Sponsors (Hole event sponsor also gets hole sponsorship)

$250/hole event (6 4 available)

Closest to the pin (par 3) (2 available on separate holes) – 2 SOLD

Long Drive Men

Long Drive Women

Closest to the pin in 2

Long putt

$25 for all hole events – Prizes will be given out!

Hole Sponsors – $200/hole (12 11 available) – 1 SOLD

Meal Sponsor -$500 (2 1 available)- 1 SOLD

Beer Cart Sponsor -$500 (2 1 available) – 1 SOLD

Raffle Ticket Sales – proceeds go towards Student Scholarships

Registration Deadline for Teams – August 7, 2025

Registration Deadline for Sponsorships – July 28, 2025

Raffle Prizes and Donations are Still Needed! We will accept these up until the event.

READ REGISTRATION DISCLAIMER CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING

There will be no refunds for cancellations made within 14 days of the event, although substitutions may be permitted. Refunds will only be considered in emergency situations at the Wisconsin Arborist Association’s discretion. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not attend the event.

Notice of cancellation and/or substitutions must be made via email to Tina Johnson or by calling Tina Johnson at 262-899-0060. A cancellation acknowledgement will be sent within 3 working days and fees refunded within 10 working days, subject to this Return Policy. We do not issue refunds once the event has occurred.

2025 WAA Tree Climbing Championship
2025-09-05 08:00 - 2025-09-07 16:00 | Mead Park, 1201 W. Whitney St., Stevens Point, Wisconsin, 54481, United States
Mead Park, Stevens Point, WI

1201 W. Whitney St., Stevens Point, WI 54481

Friday will include education sessions with CEUs, gear check, walk-through, and ascent event.

Saturday will be the remaining preliminary events and preliminary awards.

Sunday will be the Master’s Challenge and final awards.

The success of our event would not be possible without the support of our many great Sponsors and Volunteers. Sign up early and come join us to compete or help, you won’t regret the experience!

Climbers and volunteers will receive CEUs!

You must pre-register for this competition, and competitors must be current WAA members. We are accepting 40 Wisconsin competitors and 5 Out of State competitors. Register on time, as the number of contestants is limited. In agreement with other ISA chapters, competitors may compete in only one chapter championship per year, preferably their home chapter. Contestants will be scheduled for all 5 preliminary events. IN STATE SPOTS ARE FILLED!!

If registration fills up, please contact Tina to be put on a waiting list, including Out-of-State! OUT OF STATE SPOTS ARE FILLED!!

Winners of the 2025 TCC will represent WI at the International TCC in 2026.

Educational sessions will be held on Friday with CEUs.

View updated rule book at https://www.itcc-isa.com/rules. Hard copies are also available for purchase on the ISA website..

View WAA Code of Conduct prior to registering.

View approved gear list at https://www.itcc-isa.com/rulesregulations/equipment

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: August 15, 2025. Walk-ons not allowed!

Competitor Registration Fee: $125

Must be a WAA MEMBER to compete!

Sponsorships

There are many sponsorships available.

Contact Gary Kohler for more information.

NEARBY HOTELS (just a couple listed, there are more) (no reserved blocks)

Cobbleston Hotel & Suites1117 Centerpoint Dr., Stevens Point, WI 54481715-343-0522http://staycobblestone.com

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson301 Division St. N, Stevens Point, WI 54481715-345-7000http://choicehotels.com

Camping (no reserved blocks)

River’s Edge Campground3266 Campsite Dr., Stevens Point, WI 54482715-344-8058riversedgewisconsin.com

Jordan County Park CampgroundWI-66 E, Hull, WI 54482715-346-1433reservations.co.portage.wi.us

Tentative Schedule

Friday6:15 am Volunteer Registration Opens7:00 am Volunteer Meeting9:30 am-10:30 am Educational session Mike Maederer “ climbing Skills”11:00 am – 12:00 noon- Educational session Cody Swartz “ CompetitionTricks”Lunch Provided for Volunteers12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Climber Registration Opens1:00 pm – 2:00 pm Competitor Walk Through2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Competitor Gear check4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Ascent Event – Starting w/ National anthem- KristenSummers7:00 pm – 8:00 pm Group Dinner

Saturday7:00 am Climber and Volunteer check-in7:30 am welcome & National anthem-w/ David Grahm8:00 am – 12:00 noon Preliminary eventsBox Lunches provided for Climbers & VolunteersEstimated 6:30 pm Preliminary events results, awards, dinner and the announcement of the Master’s Challenge competitors.

Sunday7:45 am Competitor check in and sequestration8:00 am Walk-through8:30 am Gear check9:00 am First climberLunch will be provided for climbers and volunteersEstimated 3:00 pm Final awards will take place after the final competitor

Want to VOLUNTEER or have any QUESTIONS about TCC?? Contact Gary Kohler or Shelly Wollerman

READ REGISTRATION DISCLAIMER CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING

Refunds will be made if requested on or before August 22, 2025 with a $20 processing fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations made within 14 days of the event, although substitutions may be permitted as long as they are a WAA member or become a WAA member. Refunds will only be considered in emergency situations at the Wisconsin Arborist Association’s discretion. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not attend the event.

Notice of cancellation and/or substitutions must be made via email to Tina Johnson. A cancellation acknowledgement will be sent within 3 working days and fees refunded within 10 working days, subject to this Return Policy. We do not issue refunds once the event has occurred.

Registration Questions?? Contact Tina Johnson

2023 TCC Competitors and volunteers!

WAA Kids' Climb
2025-09-20 11:00 - 15:00 | Pringle Nature Center, 9800 160th St, Bristol, Wisconsin, 53104, United States
Pringle Nature Center, 9800 160th St. Bristol WI, 53104
Bring your family, children and neighbors for this Kids’ Climb event as part of Fall Fun Fest at Pringle Nature Center.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

To make these events successful we need help. We need volunteers to be on the ground and also up in the tree. Tasks include: helping parents fill out waiver forms, outfitting kids in helmets and saddles, belaying kids up into the tree using pulley systems, and climbing in the tree assisting kids in learning limb walking, how to hang upside and things like that.

Please use the sign up genius to sign up to help: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080F4EACA828A2FC1-58274379-kids

Questions??? Contact Aaron Schauer

Women's Rec & Safety Climb at Token Creek - FREE
2025-10-04 08:30 - 17:00
Token Creek County Park

6200 Williamsburg Way, DeForest WI 53532

FREE EVENT FOR WOMEN

This is an event where women can network with other women arborists and have a safe/comfortable environment to learn what they want and hang out with other women in the industry. Women arborists with any level of experience are welcome and encouraged to attend!

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

This event is intended for female professional arborists, tree care workers, green industry professionals and college students in the green industry.

TENTATIVE AGENDA

8:30-9:00am Registration

9:00-10:00am Educational Session: Gear Check

10:00-12:00pm Climbing

12:00-1:00pm Potluck Lunch

1:00-5:00pm More Climbing

Attendees will be broken into small groups with a mentor to keep an eye on them, answer any questions they may have and provide some tips/tricks.

We will be promoting safe climbing techniques.

If attendees want to try out a new piece of gear, be introduced to the basics of climbing, and do their own rec climb throughout the trees, that is up to them.

The trees are available for rec climbing till 5 pm, you are not required to stay til the end.

Don’t have your own climbing gear? Some gear will be provided by MATC if you want to give it a try!

Water station provided.

Potluck Lunch- Bring something to share: LUNCH SIGN UP HERE

Camp sites are available at Token Creek if anyone is interested.

WHAT TO BRING

PPE

Climbing gear

Water bottle

Chair

Dish to pass for lunch

MENTORS FOR THE DAY

Shelly Wollerman

Alison Holets – Alison started climbing rocks in 2013 and moved to trees in 2015. She lives in Baraboo, where she and her husband run Canopy Climbers. Alison won the WAA climbing competition in 2022. Climbing makes her feel powerful and graceful. In her free time she enjoys dog training, mushroom cultivation, and building/crafting.

Lydia Bruning – Lydia is a certified arborist and the owner of Rooted Tree Care, proudly serving Dane County for the past four years. She’s passionate about trees, and loves what she does—whether it’s helping clients maintain healthy trees or tackling complex removals. When she’s not out in the field, she loves spending time with her husband, serves as a volunteer firefighter, tends to her garden, or gets creative in the woodshop. She believes in hard work, community, and staying rooted—both in nature and in values.

Johanna O’Boyle

Annalise Nordgren – Annalise is a Certified Arborist and holds a TRAQ qualification. She started as a climber trainee with Davey Tree in Illinois in 2021. She lived in Bellingham, WA for a few years climbing Douglas firs and Western Red Cedars. Although she loved the PNW, Annalise recently moved back to the midwest to be closer to family. She currently works for Heartwood Tree Company in Madison, and is loving climbing wide canopy trees again. Annalise is excited to be a part of this event which is creating space for women in tree care, and climbers to gather, learn, and connect.

Audrey Earle

Libby Bower

For more information contact Shelly Wollerman at shellyw@soteriatrainings.com

WAA Kids' Climb
2025-10-05 09:00 - 13:00 | Racine- Riverbend Nature Center, 3600 North Green Bay Road, Racine WI 53404, Racine, Wisconsin, 53404, United States
Racine – River Bend Nature Center – 3600 North Green Bay Road, Racine WI 53404
Bring your family, children and neighbors for this Kids’ Climb event!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

To make these events successful we need help. We need volunteers to be on the ground and also up in the tree. Tasks include: helping parents fill out waiver forms, outfitting kids in helmets and saddles, belaying kids up into the tree using pulley systems, and climbing in the tree assisting kids in learning limb walking, how to hang upside and things like that.

Please use the sign up genius to sign up to help: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080B45A9A72EA7FA7-56249373-2025

Questions??? Contact August Hoppe

WAA 2025 Fall Seminar
2025-10-08 07:30 - 16:00 | Army Lake Camp & Retreat Center, N8725 Army Lake Rd., East Troy, Wisconsin, 53120
Managing Trees From Above and Below

Please join the WAA at our next Fall Seminar in East Troy, WI to learn a lot and earn your much needed CEUs at Army Lake Camp & Retreat Center. We are offering two tracks of education, one indoors and one outdoors, so dress accordingly. We hope to see you at Army Lake!

Click the links below for presentation descriptions and speaker bios.

Early Bird Registration Deadline: Tuesday, September 30th.

On-line Registration Deadline: October 5, 2025. WALK-UPS WILL BE WELCOME! (at delayed pricing).

Registration Fees:

Early Bird Pricing WAA members – $140 / Non-Members $160

Non-Members with 1 year membership included $185

Delayed Registration (after Sept. 30) WAA Members – $165 / Non-Members – $185

Full-Time Students FREE

WAA Member Dues/ Renewal: $45. Click here to renew or become a WAA member.(Membership is on an individual basis, NOT per company. Please pay the correct pricing – per individual!)

Last day to register online Sunday October 5th

For more details about the program and to pay by check, please print off this BROCHURE.

Parking

Go past the camp on Army Lake Road and park on the left on the soccer field. It is about a half- mile walk back to the camp. Signs will be posted.

Sponsorship Information

LUNCH AND REFRESHMENT BREAK SPONSORSHIPS STILL NEEDED!

See Sponsorship Program Brochure for details.

THANKS TO THOSE THAT HAVE SPONSORED ALREADY!

Program

7:30am – 8:15am Registration

8:15am – 8:30am Welcome – Ian Brown, WAA President

Track One – Concurrent Indoor Sessions

8:30am – 9:30am Tree Tolerance to Moisture Stress: Tree Tricks Up Their Leaves – Rich Hauer

9:30am – 10:30am After the Storm: Crown Restoration Pruning of Storm Damaged Trees – Jake Miesbauer

10:30am – 11:00am Morning Break

11:00am – 12:00pm BMPs Around Tree Roots – Ian Brown, Briana Frank

12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch

1:00pm – 2:00pm After the Storm: Crown Restoration Pruning of Storm Damaged Trees – Jake Miesbauer

2:00pm – 3:00pm BMPs Around Tree Roots – Ian Brown, Briana Frank

3:00pm – 4:00pm Reducing the Impact of Salt on the Landscape – Allison Madison

Track Two – Concurrent Outdoor Sessions

8:30am — 9:30am What does YOUR sales visit look like? – Michael L. Peterson

9:30am – 10:30am Tree Risk Assessment: Look Up, Look Down, Look All Around – Rich Hauer

10:30am – 11:00am Morning Break

11:00am – 12:00pm Remote Rigging – Ryan Rodefer

12:00pm – 1:00pm Lunch

1:00pm – 2:00pm On-site Soil Assessments for Arborists – Luke Scheberl

2:00pm – 3:00pm Call the Utility, Don’t Take Chances – Brian Smith

3:00pm – 4:00pm Managing Big Wood – Ryan Rodefer

Up to six CEUs are possible if you attend the full conference. (Please allow ISA 6-8 weeks to process CEUs.)

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Refunds will be made if requested on or before September 30, 2025 with a $20 processing fee.

There will be no refunds for cancellations made after September 30th, although substitutions may be permitted. Refunds will only be considered in emergency situations at the Wisconsin Arborist Association’s discretion. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not attend the event.

Notice of cancellation and/or substitutions must be made by contacting Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website or by calling Tina Johnson at 262-899-0060. A cancellation acknowledgement will be sent within 3 working days and fees refunded within 10 working days, subject to this Return Policy.

We do not issue refunds once the event has occurred.

Questions or Need Help Registering?

Contact Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website.

ISA Certified Arborist, ISA Certified Arborist Utility Specialist, and ISA Certified Urban Forest Professional Exam CANCELLED
2025-10-08 08:00 - 12:00 | Army Lake Camp & Retreat Center, N8725 Army Lake Rd., East Troy, Wisconsin, 53120
CANCELLED DUE TO LOW ENROLLMENT

Registration Deadline: September 16, 2025

Seats Available: 30

Minimum Seating: 5

ISA’s NEW REGISTRATION PROCESS

Required Registration Steps:

Log in to your MyISA account through this link > https://wwv.isa-arbor.com/myAccount/login

Select “ISA Credentialing” to access the ISA Cred HQ system.

Locate the applications that you may be eligible to apply for under Are you Ready to Apply for Eligibility and follow the link to determine eligibility. There is an application fee associated with the eligibility process; Application fees are found within the Program Guides for each of ISA’s credentials. Please see here > https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials/Which-Credential-is-Right-for-You

AFTER you confirm your eligibility in ISA Cred HQ, a list of upcoming exams will be given to you.

Enroll for a written or computer-based exam. You will receive an email from ISA stating whether your application has been approved or denied. WATCH FOR THESE EMAILS.

Your enrollment and exam fee must be received by the September 16th deadline; there are no exceptions.

If you have questions about your application, please get in touch with ISA. The Chapter does not have access to your application and cannot answer questions related to the application process.

Please check the ISA website (www.isa-arbor.com) for more information and for registration under Credentials/ Exam Information. Registration for the exam is made directly with the ISA, and must be completed at least 12 working days in advance.

Please contact ISA if you are having any difficulties with registration. Do not wait until the last minute to register!

Check-in starts at 8:00am and exam begins promptly at 8:30am. This exam is being held in conjunction with the WAA Fall Seminar in East Troy, WI.

Electrical Hazards Awareness and Education Training For Arborists (EHAT)
2025-11-14 08:00 - 15:30 | Urban Ecology Center, 1500 E. Park Place, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53211, United States
Urban Ecology Center in Milwaukee – Riverside Park Community Room

1500 E. Park Pl., Milwaukee, WI 53211

Reduced Rate EHAT Training for WAA Members!

This is a special training opportunity for WAA members and non members. WAA members receive a greatly reduced rate. Take advantage of this electrical hazard training.

This knowledge-based course will consist of classroom instruction, with time in the field to identify electrical hardware and systems. Lunch is included! CEU’s and CTSP credits will be available!

Topics covered will include:

Basic Electrical Theory and Terminology

Basic Overview Of How Electricity Is Distributed

How To Identify Maximum Nominal Voltage

How To Identify Electrical System Hardware

What Level Arborist Are You and What Are You Qualified to Work?

PPE Requirements, how to inspect and when to retire

MAD Charts and Variations

How To Interact With Your Local Utility

Arc Flash and Arc Blast

Five Types Of Electrical Hazard Injuries & Emergency Response Actions

Radio frequency Hazards

Field Trip/Walk Outside

Instructor:

Rebecca Seibl – Rebecca has been a consulting and production climbing arborist for 25 years. She brings a practical approach to teaching and leadership, delivered through a clear and compassionate message.TreeSpirit Consultingwww.treespiritconsulting.com

Registration is Limited to 50 people

1 SPOT LEFT! REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN AGAIN!

$40 for WAA Member$200 for Non-WAA Member. (Become a member and save, click here to become WAA member PRIOR to registering for this event.)

Cancellation/ Refund Policy

Refunds will be made if requested on or before November 7, 2025 with a $20 processing fee.

There will be no refunds for cancellations made after November 7th, although substitutions may be permitted. Refunds will only be considered in emergency situations at the Wisconsin Arborist Association’s discretion. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not attend the event.

Notice of cancellation and/or substitutions must be made by contacting Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website or by calling Tina Johnson at 262-899-0060. A cancellation acknowledgement will be sent within 3 working days and fees refunded within 10 working days, subject to this Return Policy. We do not issue refunds once the event has occurred.

Questions: Contact Fred Hoppe

ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)
2025-12-10 08:00 - 2025-12-12 11:30 | Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center, 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, Wisconsin, 54481, United States
Course Location: Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center Meeting Room UW – Stevens Point 2419 North Point Drive Stevens Point, WI 54481
Registration Fee:
ISA Member $675(You must be an ISA member to receive the member discount.) Non-ISA Member $775Exam Retake Only $150Maximum # of Registrants: 20
Registration Deadline: November 10, 2025 REGISTRATION IS NOW FILLED. Please fill out the TRAQ interest form below.
Can’t make it? If interested in attending a future TRAQ Full Course offering, please submit the following form: CLICK HERE – TRAQ INTEREST FORM
ABOUT THE COURSE
The ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ) program provides 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. The Tree Risk Assessment Qualification Course is a two-day educational course followed by a 1/2 day assessment that includes both a written and field component. The course prepares the participant to take the TRAQ assessment to become ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified. It is required that you attend the course and successfully complete the assessment in order to receive the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification. 14.5 CEUs.
New changes from ISA

Good for 7 years, with no renewal option. Must take full course every 7 years.
No workbook mailed, get access to a digital copy unless you want to pay for one.
New registration process. (See Below)

Required Registration Steps:

Log in to your MyISA account through this link > https://wwv.isa-arbor.com/myAccount/login
Select “ISA Credentialing” to access the ISA Cred HQ system.
Locate the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification under My Applications or under Are you Ready to Apply for Eligibility and follow the links to determine eligibility. Locate the applications that you may be eligible to apply for under Are you Ready to Apply for Eligibility and follow the link to determine eligibility. There is an application fee associated with the eligibility process; If you need to submit an application to become eligible, application submission fees will apply. Application fees are found within the Program Guides for each of ISA’s credentials. Please see here > https://www.isa-arbor.com/Credentials/Which-Credential-is-Right-for-You. This step is REQUIRED before registering for the Chapter’s TRAQ course.
AFTER you confirm your eligibility in ISA Cred HQ, click on the link on this website to register for the WAA course.

Your enrollment and exam fee must be received by the November 10th deadline; there are no exceptions.

Hosted by: The Wisconsin Arborist Association
Instructor: Dr. Richard Hauer
Richard Hauer is the Director of Urban Forestry at Eocene Environmental Group and a Professor Emeritus of Urban Forestry at the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. He was honored as the 2023 Alex L. Shigo Award for Excellence in Education and the 2018 & 2024 L.C. Chadwick Award for Arboricultural Research. He has published over 200 publications and presented over 500 talks throughout the world.
COURSE CONTENT
Tree Biology and Mechanics: Participants will learn how to assess wood structure, decay, and tree mechanics, and evaluate their impact on likelihood of tree or tree part failure. Participants will also learn how to identify and assess defects and conditions that may affect likelihood of failure. Tree Inspection and Assessment: Participants will learn about types of targets, assess the likelihood of a tree or tree part impacting a target, and estimate the consequences of tree or tree part failure. Participants will also learn how to assess site factors that may influence likelihood of failure.
Data Analysis and Risk Categorization: After learning the tree and target factors that must be assessed, participants will combine likelihood of failure, likelihood of impact, and consequences of failure to derive a risk rating. This rating helps the assessor communicate tree risk to clients and risk managers, and allows comparison of risk levels between trees.
Risk Reporting: Participants will learn skills for clearly communicating tree risk to clients, both in written and verbal reports. Participants will also learn about the key components that should be included in a report after completing a tree risk assessment.
TENTATIVE AGENDADay 1: Educational Session (8:00am – 5:00pm)Course OpeningModule 1: Introduction to Tree Risk AssessmentBreakModule 2: Levels of AssessmentModule 3: Target AssessmentLunchModule 4: Site AssessmentBreakModule 5: Tree Biology and Mechanics (Outdoors)Day 2: Educational Session (8:00am – 5:00pm)Module 6: Tree Inspection and AssessmentBreakModule 7: Data Analysis and Risk Categorization (indoors)Module 7: Field Activity (outdoors)LunchModule 8: MitigationModule 9: ReportingBreakReview and Exam InformationDay 3: Exam (8:00am – 11:30am) Written examPerformance-based exam*Schedule subject to adjustment
Included in your registration: – course registration – exam fee – the TRAQ renewal manual (Access digitally) – lunch, beverages and snacks for the day
Travel and lodging is on your own.
What is required to bring to the class: – your government issued photo ID – your hard hat and high visibility vest or shirt (required) – #2 pencils and your clipboard for taking notes and completing worksheets – rain gear, including a large ziplock bag (just in case!) – come prepared to spend part of the day outdoors – please dress for your comfort level indoors and outdoors; we cannot always control the room temperature to suit everyone
Special Testing Accommodations Requests:If you have an accommodation request, please complete the Special Accommodations Request Form and submit it with your application. You may find the form online at http://www.isa-arbor.com/Portals/0/Assets/PDF/Certification-Applications/TRAQ-App-Guide.pdf at the end of the TRAQ application guide. The process may take up to several months and may not allow enough time to attend this particular class.
READ REGISTRATION DISCLAIMER CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING
WAA will retain a $50 cancellation fee for all cancellations before the deadline. No refunds will be issued after the registration deadline of November 10th. Registrations cannot be transferred to another individual. For registration questions, please e-mail admin@waa-isa.org.

2026 WAA Day of Service Applications Due
2025-12-31 00:00 - 23:59
Please fill out this application at the link below.

2026 WAA Day of Service Application – CLICK HERE

2026 Certified Arborist Study Group
2026-01-15 18:30 - 21:00, 2026-01-20 18:30 - 21:00, 2026-01-22 18:30 - 21:00
5 Week Workshop – Tuesday and Thursday evenings starting January 15 – February 12, 2025. Every Tuesday and Thursday will be 6:30pm – 9:00pm. Over the 5 weeks (9 sessions), we will be covering each of the domains associated with the certified arborist exam. The following week (Monday, February 16th), we will be offering a certified arborist exam in conjunction with the Annual Conference in Green Bay, WI. The cost of the exam is separate and paid directly to ISA. Information will be forthcoming on the exam. The exam will be available for everyone, not just class participants. So if you want to take the exam, it is best to start the application process early. The cost of the annual conference is a separate fee as well, if you wish to attend. Information will be forthcoming on the WAA website.

This is an VIRTUAL course. You are welcome to register for the full course. You can also choose to attend individual sessions. 2.5 CEU credits are available per session.

Leading industry subject matter experts are the instructors and this study group is tailored to the working arborist.

Location

Virtual Zoom Meeting – Meeting invites will be sent out closer to the start of the course.

Course Syllabus

Date Instructor Class Domain

Thursday, January 15th 2026Jake KubisiakTree Physiology and BiologyTuesday, January 20th, 2026 Glen Stanosz Plant Health Care/Diseases and TreatmentThursday January 22nd 2026 Aaron SchauerSoil, Water and NutritionTuesday January 27th, 2026Matt KettnerClimbing and Safety Thursday January 29th, 2026 Nathan SchuettpelzRisk ManagementTuesday February 3rd. 2026 Denny Fermenich Tree Establishment and PruningThursday February 5th ,2026Don RoppoloTree Support and ProtectionTuesday February 10th, 2026Denny FermenichTree ID and Selection Thursday February 12th, 2026Dannell VanceTrees and Construction /Urban ForestryMon., February 16th, 2026Franklin SeilheimerCertification Exam (NOT INCLUDED IN PRICING)

Our instructors:

Jake Kubisiak– Consulting Arborist, Wachtel Tree Science, ISA Board Certified Master Arborist

Dr. Glen Stanosz– Emeritus Professor of Tree and Forest Health at UW-Madison, and is an ISA Certified Arborist with the Tree Risk Assessment Qualification

Aaron Schauer– Program Director and Instructor of Arboriculture/Urban Forestry at Gateway Technical College

Matt Kettner- Urban Forestry Specialist City of Cedarburg

Nathan Schuettpelz– Consulting Department Manager, Wachtel Tree Science

Denny Fermenich– City Forester, City of Greenfield; Past president of WAA

Don Roppolo– Past President, Illinois Arborist Association; Davey Institute, Director of Arboricultural Training

Dannell Vance- Urban Forestry Technical Services Manager at DPW Milwaukee

Franklin Seilheimer– Urban Forestry District Manager, City of Milwaukee, DPW-Forestry

Cost:

$225 – WAA Member – Full Course (the person attending the course must be a WAA member to receive this pricing!)

$270 – Non-Member – Full Course (Includes one year membership)

$35 – Single Session

$90 – Study Guide (Recommended)

$15 – ANSI Standards (Recommended)

EXAM IS SEPARATE!

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Refunds will be made if requested on or before January 12, 2026 with a $25 processing fee.

There will be no refunds for cancellations made after January 12th, although substitutions may be permitted prior to January 15th. Refunds will only be considered in emergency situations at the Wisconsin Arborist Association’s discretion. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not attend the event.

Notice of cancellation and/or substitutions must be made by contacting Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website or by calling Tina Johnson at 262-899-0060. A cancellation acknowledgement will be sent within 3 working days and fees refunded within 10 working days, subject to this Return Policy. We do not issue refunds once the event has occurred/started.

Questions or Need Help Registering?

Contact Tina Johnson through the Contact Us page on our website.
