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Arborist Skills Summer Summit: From Ground to Crown

  • August 27, 2026
  • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Decatur Legacy Park
  • 75

Registration

  • For GAA Members in good standing
  • Bring your whole crew! From the brand new beginner to the crew lead, there's something for everyone. Discount for if you want to bring the entire team. Discount is for up to 4 people.
  • Includes one year free GAA Membership.

Register


Summer Workshop

Arborist Skills Summer Summit: From Ground to Crown

***Registration Deadline - August 20th***

Join the Georgia Arborist Association on August 27, 2026, at Legacy Park in Decatur for a full day of hands-on learning designed specifically for field arborists. Whether you're new to the industry or an experienced climber looking to sharpen your technical skills, the Arborist Skills Summit offers training tailored to your level.

Participants will choose between two dedicated learning tracks:

Foundations Track
Designed for newer arborists and crew members, this track focuses on the core skills needed for success and safety in production tree care. Topics include tree identification, basic pruning principles, climbing equipment and setup, jobsite safety, and essential arboricultural practices.

Advanced Skills/Climber Track
Built for experienced field personnel, this track explores higher-level technical skills including crane operations, advanced rigging techniques, gear inspection and management, cabling and bracing systems, and other specialized practices used in complex tree care operations.

Throughout the day, attendees will learn from industry leaders through live demonstrations, interactive discussions, and practical field exercises. Whether you're building a foundation or refining advanced skills, this workshop will provide valuable knowledge you can immediately apply in the field.

CEUs will be available. Lunch and snacks included.


August 27, 2026

at

DECATUR LEGACY PARK
500 South Columbia Dr. Decatur GA 30031


AGENDA

Thursday, August 27th, 2026

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
    Chipper Safety
  • Advanced Climber Track
    Cabling/Bracing 
    Gear Inspection
    Advanced Rigging

12:00–1:00 Lunch 

1:00–4:30 Afternoon Sessions

  • Foundations Track
    Chainsaw 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



Georgia Arborist Association


Email:  info@georgiaarborist.org
Phone:  (404) 913-1422
Address:  GAA ~ P.O. Box 2516, Decatur GA 30031

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