Welcome to the GAA

A resource for tree care professionals and the public to protect and care for Georgia's trees.

    All Events

      • February 21, 2025
      • 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
      • Plaza Las Americas 733 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lilburn, GA 30047
      Register


      Sorteo de árbolitos en el Día del Árbol

      Arbor Day Seedling Giveaway

      Plaza Las Americas

      733 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lilburn, GA 30047

      4pm-7pm

      GRATIS

      Estamos regalando arbolitos de raíz desnuda para celebrar el Día del Árbol. Cada visitante puede recibir un arbolito. Contaremos con arboristas profesionales disponibles para ayudarte a escoger el mejor árbol para tu espacio y para asesorarte sobre tus árboles maduros. Si tienes preguntas sobre tus árboles, por favor toma fotos de ellos y de su entorno para que podamos ayudarte de la mejor manera.

      Especies disponibles:

      red maple, maple rojo (Acer rubrum)

      persimmon, caqui americano  (Diospyros virginiana)

      eastern redbud, ciclamor (Cercis canadensis)

      witch hazel, avellano de brujas (Hamamelis virginiana)

      common elderberry, sauco negro (Sambucus nigra canadensis) 

      white oak, roble blanco (Quercus alba)

      baldcypress, ciprés de los pantanos (Taxodium distichum) 

      swamp chestnut oak, roble castaño de pantano (Quercus michauxii)

      Instrucciones: como plantar tu arbolito de raiz desnuda 


      • February 22, 2025
      • 1:00 PM - 9:30 PM
      • Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534
      • 40
      Register

      Event POSTPONED
      NEW DATE FEBRUARY 22nd.

      Winter Management Workshop and Award Ceremony

      Please join us for an afternoon of of education and an evening of networking & celebration with friends! Together we will welcome in the New Year as we celebrate our accomplishments & recognize those who have given their extra time & energy to help the GAA and the industry professionals we serve. 


      Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

      418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd

      Dawsonville, GA 30534

      NEW DATE Saturday, February 22nd 2025

      1 pm - 9:30 pm


      CEUS


       Agenda 

      12:30 pm - Check In and Get Settled in Oak Hall
      1:00 PM - Safety and Human Performance with Warren Williams
      2:00 PM - Building Company Culture with Cindy Schwab 
      3:00 PM
      - Hickory Rooted Humans: An Arborist's Perspective on Conflict Resolution with Mateo Fennell
      4:00 PM - What Does Success Mean? Roundtable of Industry Experts
      5:00 PM - Break and Get Ready for Dinner

      6:30 PM - Open Reception and Networking
      7:30 PM  - Dinner and Awards Ceremony
       

      About the Speakers: 

      Warren Williams 

      Senior Safety Lead of SET Team at Wright Tree Service

      Servicing all Divisions (18 includes Continental US, Puerto Rico, and Canada)

      Primary responsibilities include technical skills training and mentoring of the SET team supervisors, research and implementation of climbing technologies, managing vendor relationships for company climbing equipment, overseeing the general foreperson, project manager schools, and company safety challenge programs.

      I was taught how to use a rope to climb a tree in 1991 and have been “addicted” ever since. After over 30 years in this industry, I still love the challenges of arboriculture and the fulfillment I receive from conquering those challenges and engaging with arborists and tree lovers alike.

      I received a AAS Degree in Horticulture in 1994, ISA certified Arborist in 1997 , certified first aid CPR trainer in 2000, have been a judge or technician at the ISA International Climbing Competitions (ITCC) since 2003, and was a founding member of NATS (North American Training Solutions) in 2005. I can go on, but to be honest I am just “a big kid”; I get to play with a lot of cool toys and make a huge mess with friends, what could be better than that!? On a more serious note, I love the challenge of pruning trees to improve their shape, structure, or health as well as educating the clients about the “needs” trees have and helping them have a better understanding of the ecosystem, that is happening on their property, so that they can better appreciate and enjoy it. I am a proud arborist and cannot think of any other profession that would give me more fulfillment or greater sense of accomplishment. Live well!

      Cindy Schwab, currently serving as Operations RC Talent Manager of the East at Davey Tree, oversees the people and culture function. With a career spanning over two decades in the Green Industry, Cindy brings a wealth of experience, having excelled in various roles such as fieldwork, sales arborist responsibilities, and management of both field and office teams.

      Cindy earned her bachelor’s degree in Urban Forestry and Parks & Recreation from UW-Stevens Point, followed by an M.B.A. from National Lewis University. She further enhanced her skill set with a Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from The Ohio State University. Cindy is recognized as an ISA Certified Arborist and holds prestigious certifications such as SHRM Senior Certified Professional and Certified Diversity Executive (CDE).

      Mateo Fennell is the Community Forester for Athens Clarke County, where he nurtures both trees and relationships with equal care. He holds a Bachelor's of Science degree from the Eugene Odum school of Ecology at the University of Georgia.

      As an ISA Certified Arborist with TRAQ and WRRQ qualifications, Mateo doesn't just know trees he speaks their language ... and often translates so the homeowner can hear. For more than 20 years, Mateo has worn many hats (and helmets), including those of climber, sales arborist, and plant health care technician.

      But perhaps his most unique title was as a technical representative for a Fortune 500 company, where his specialty was "verbal firefighting" -extinguishing misunderstandings with wit, patience, and charm. Trained in conflict resolution, de-escalation, and even the art of snake and human charming, Mateo brings a unique blend of expertise, humor, and empathy everywhere he goes.

      Workshop and Award Banquet Member Ticket $100

      Workshop and Award Banquet Non-Member Ticket $150

      Just Award Banquet Members $55
      Just Award Banquet Non-Members $75


      Sponsorship  $1000
      Sponsorship includes 2 tickets to event, logo recognition on all event correspondence, recognition on event presentation and a moment to address attendees.  Exhibit table included.


      Attendee Registration includes dinner & drinks for in person attendees

      The GAA has also reserved a discounted hotel block for attendees (limited availability so book fast!). More information on hotel/accommodations below


      All Industry Professionals Welcome!

      Bring your team & invite your friends!

      Dress: Business Casual



      Hotel/Accommodations

      • A limited block of discounted rooms are available at the Lodge ($130/night + taxes/fees).  You can book your stay HEREDecember 6th is the deadline to book at the discounted rate before rooms are released to the general public.  There are 2 ways to book.
      • Online - Go to website: www.amicalolafallslodge.com Upper right hand corner Click on Blue box: Lowest Rate Guaranteed BOOK HERE! Click on BOOK NOW! Enter arrival date and select number of room nights Click on Rate Options Enter Promotional Code: 06450 Click on Next Select room, scroll to bottom of page and click NEXT Complete required information to make reservation
      • Call in - Reservations for the Event will be made by individual attendees directly with Hotel reservations prior to the Cut-off Date. All guests should identify themselves as a member of Organization's group in order to obtain the Organization's rate. Hotel will accept reservations from attendees after Wednesday, December 6, 2024 only on a space and rate available basis. The Reservations Department phone number is 1-800-573-9656.
      • OTHER OPTIONS - 
      -There are also many other options for RV/tent camping, glamping, and cabins that can be found HERE

       It will be a little cold for a tent however :)

      -Locally there are several hotels and/or great Airbnbs available as well


      • February 24, 2025
      • 8:00 AM
      • February 25, 2025
      • 5:00 PM
      • Athens, Georgia
      Register

      Basic Chainsaw Use: BC-1


      The goal of this course is to properly educate students on chainsaws and their use in the field. By the end of the course, students should be able to perform basic chainsaw operations (bucking, limbing, basic felling), troubleshoot basic mechanical chainsaw issues, and provide proper care and upkeep for equipment. We will cover general chainsaw operation hazards and procedures, as well as those that are specific to the work performed by students in the field (storm work, hazard trees, etc.)

      February 24-25th 
      8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
      Athens, GA
      CEUS applied for

      Agenda

      Day 1: 

      Classroom -NUF Headquarters at 1002 Winterville Rd.

      • PPE Review,
      • Chainsaw review
      • Tool Use and Maintenance,
      • Cut Theory
      •  Felling Theory
      •  Hazard Trees and Situations. 

      In the field

      • Maintenance
      • Sharpening
      • Saw Operation/ Safety. 

      Day 2: Williams Farm - Athens Land trust at 235 Northside Dr. Athens, GA
      In the field - in Groups

      • Review of Day 1
      • Bucking,
      • Limbing
      • Tree Felling and processing.

       *Breaks and lunch breaks are included each day.

      Requirements:

      Students are responsible for bringing their own equipment and PPE for the course.

      • Students must be able to demonstrate basic skills: Proper PPE use, Proper and safe tool use; basic felling, bucking and limbing for full completion of this course and to receive a Certificate of Training and Patch.
      • Physical ability to hold and work with an appropriately sized chainsaw. Able to perform a full day of work in the field. 


      Gear List:

      PPE

      • Helmet
      • Eye protection ( Z87 rated) 
      • Hearing protection 
      • Chaps 

        (The GAA has a limited number of protective legwear for use. If you do not have chaps or protective legwear, please reach out to discuss options.).

      • Glovess
      • Boots 
      Tools: 
      • Chainsaw & bar (16” minimum) (The GAA will have a limited number of saws available to use. If you do not have your own saw, please reach out to discuss options). 
      • Gas and Oil for personal use 
      • Ax and felling wedges (2-4) 
      • Scrench or clutch cover wrench 
      •  Round sharpening file that matches your specific chain
      •  Flat File 
      • Extra Chain loop 
      • Plumb Bob (optional) 
      • Lumber Crayon (optional) 
      •  Inclement Weather Gear (we will cut in the rain, without lightening) 
      •  Lunch and snacks for the day(s) 
      • Pen and paper for any notes you’d like to take in the classroom portion. 
      About the Instructor

      Nat Walker – Sawyer, Educator, and Consultant

      With 17 years of experience running saws, Nat Walker is a seasoned Contract Faller,

      Climber, and Consultant, as well as a Contract Educator for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. A former Wildland Firefighter Sawyer, Nat has spent much of his professional career in the field, honing his craft and working with chainsaws across various challenging environments.

      Recognizing a significant gap in accessible, high-quality training for sawyers, Nat is committed to changing the landscape of chainsaw safety and education. Drawing from years of hands-on experience and participation in field-specific training courses, Nat is dedicated to creating a comprehensive education system that empowers individuals to enhance their skills and prioritize safety.

      Through his work, Nat strives to make expert chainsaw training accessible to anyone eager to improve their craft, helping to build a safer and more skilled community of sawyers.


      • February 26, 2025
      • 8:00 AM
      • February 28, 2025
      • 12:00 PM
      • 2555 Lexington Rd. Athens GA 30605
      • 0

      ISA TRAQ FULL COURSE -

      TREE RISK ASSESSMENT QUALIFICATION


      February 26-28th


      COURSE LOCATION: 

      Athens Clarke County Landscape Management Office 

      2555 Lexington Road

      Athens GA, 30605

      Instructor:

      Jimmy Walters 

      14.5 CEUs Available

      Registration Deadline:

      January 28th, 2025

      (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 - TRAQ-App-Guide.pdf . 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 Manual and a Course Workbook that you can read and study to prepare for the course. 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:

      GAA has secured a group rate of $180 at the Hampton Inn Athens (2220 W. Broad Street). You will need to click “Quick Book” to reserve the group discounted rate. You can shorten your stay by changing the dates at the top.

      https://group.hamptoninn.com/h7cnq3


      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. (This will be mailed to you by the ISA in advance.)


      ***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.
      • February 27, 2025
      • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
      • Zoom
      Register

      Building your Company Brand and Business Etiquette        

          

      This webinar is part of the webinar series called the Business of Arboriculture presented by the Georgia Arborist Association, the University of Georgia Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, and Auburn University with generous support from the United States Forest Service. The series will be presented between October 2024 and June 2025.

      February Lunch and Learn

      Join us on Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 1 PM to 2 PM for another FREE virtual learning opportunity. The topic is “Sales Etiquette and Building a Company Brand" presented by Matthew Searels and Jessie McClellan. 1 ISA CEU Applied For. 

      Join us for this two part presentation: 

      The first 30-minute talk is on the sales process and business etiquette, Matthew Searels will cover essential topics to enhance your professional interactions and client relationships. We'll start with the art of making and taking professional phone calls, ensuring clear and courteous communication. Next, we'll discuss setting realistic expectations with clients, emphasizing the importance of honesty and transparency to build trust. Timeliness will be highlighted as a key factor in maintaining client satisfaction and demonstrating reliability. We'll also stress the value of a no-nonsense approach, advocating for straightforward and honest communication. Finally, we'll touch on the significance of maintaining a professional appearance, not just for sales representatives but for the entire team and equipment, to leave a lasting positive impression. This talk aims to equip you with practical tips and strategies to excel in your sales role and uphold high standards of business etiquette.

      In the second part of this webinar, Jessie McClellan will speak on building a company brand. 

      In this 30-minute talk, we’ll explore the essential strategies for building a memorable and trustworthy brand in the tree care industry. From defining your unique value to creating a consistent visual identity and cultivating a strong reputation, this session will provide insights to help your tree company stand out in a competitive market. Learn how to leverage storytelling, customer trust, and community involvement to grow your brand and establish long-lasting connections. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your image, this talk will equip you with the tools to make your business a household name.

      Matthew has over a decade of experience in arboriculture, with additional expertise in ecology and botany. He holds a B.Sc. in Environmental Studies and a B.B.A. in Real Estate, and is an ISA Certified Arborist Utility Specialist™. Based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Matthew grew up in the Appalachian foothills of North Georgia. An Eagle Scout and former exchange student in Russia, he is also a published lead author in the American Journal of Plant Sciences for his research on wild American ginseng (Panax quinqefolius). Professionally, Matthew serves as Vice President of Eocene Environmental Group is Past President with ISA Southern Chapter. He volunteers his tree consulting services to various organizations, including the Utility Arborist Association, City of LaFayette, Georgia, Friends of the Marsh House Foundation, and Missionary Ridge Neighborhood Association. An avid cyclist, trail runner, and mountain athlete, he is a multi-year participant in the TREE Fund’s annual Tour des Trees. Matthew is passionate about educating the public on ecology and collaborating with industry professionals and academics.


      Jessie McClellan joined GAA as executive director in January 2024. She previously worked as the minister of culture for New Urban Forestry (2011-2024). Jessie earned her ABJ from the Grady College at the University of Georgia and also holds BA in Anthropology from UGA. She is an ISA Certified Arborist, #SO-10295A, Tree Risk Assessment Qualified and holds a drone pilot license. In a previous life she was a Braille transcriber. In her spare time, if she’s not reading, she likes to run in the woods, go on mountain bike travel adventures with her husband Jason and son, Koah, and hang upside down on a trapeze at Canopy. Jessie is also the current president of the ACC Community Tree Council and Vice President of WASE and was previously the Secretary and President-Elect of the Georgia Tree Council and is a mentor for the Little Bellas mountain bike program.  


      Topics/Dates for Business of Arboriculture Webinar Series

      • Building a Brand and Sales Etiquette - February 27, 2025
      • Taxes for the Arborist - March 27, 2025
      • Managing a Productive Workforce - April 24, 2025
      • Scalable Fleet Management Solutions - May 22nd, 2025
      • Safety from Scratch: Building a Safety Program - June 26th, 2025

      Sign up for the entire series on ZOOM here. 


      • February 28, 2025
      • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
      • Hyde Farm Park 721 Hyde Rd, Marietta, GA 30068
      • 20
      Register