Frequently, KHC features one of the Council’s member organizations to highlight how these groups support horticulture in Kentucky. This month we are featuring the Kentucky Arborists Association (KAA). The state chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), KAA is network of tree enthusiasts of all kinds. The membership includes commercial and municipal arborists, educators, cooperative extension personnel, landscapers, nursery growers, and students. KAA supports tree care industry professionals by providing educational resources, a quarterly newsletter, workshops, professional certifications, public events, and an annual conference.
Each fall, KAA hosts a family friendly event called the Kentucky Tree Climbing Competition (KYTCC). It is exactly as it sounds, a fun day full of competitive professional tree climbing! Arborists showcase safe working practices using innovative climbing techniques and equipment. Competitors participate in 6 tree care related challenges and the top performers go on to compete in a Master Challenge. The event is open to the public in an effort to increase interest and appreciation for the industry. The event includes a kids’ climb, tree identification walk, and food trucks.
The most recent event hosted by KAA was the 2022 Annual Conference and Trade Show, February 24-25, at the Enrichment Center in Burlington, KY. Topics included tree training, tree disease and entomology research updates, best practices for protecting wildlife, tree climbing, and urban forest management.
KAA is operated by board members from within the industry to represent the entire state. The current board includes: Executive Director: Laura Lambert; President: Dr. William Fountain; Secretary: Bryan Kist; Treasurer: Brian Gadd; Certification Liaison: Laura Lyon; KY Horticulture Council Liaison: Larry Lose; TREE Fund Liaison: David Leonard; KYTCC Chair: Cory Petry. The board of directors includes: Stacey Borden, Jesse Hesley, Drew Combs, Mike Kaneris, Aaron Boggs, Megan Buland, and Joey Hampton.
Need to find an arborist near you? Use this great tool created by ISA: https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/findanarborist
Become a member of the Kentucky Arborists Association. Student membership is free!