Arbtalk.co.uk | Discussion Forum for Arborists

Here is a chance to get something off your chest.....

What one thing undermines your ability to perform as an arborist? Why?

This is open to business owners, employers and employees alike.

Funding to study further

trees being overworked , and price and customer demands over the health of the tree

Cost.

i would say, but i'd probably get told off for saying it on an open forum, so my next answer would be cost.... or maybe the majority of clients having a 0% knowledge base meaning they're not bothered about the tree just the H&S aspects of the tree being dangerous when its not or blocking the sunlight when it doesn't or them just being generally ignorant.... rant over

my lightsaber broke....and previously over reduced trees everywhere!

Certification of/and training.

Its a double edged sword.

Prior to mandatory certification, only workers who were any good cut the mustard and remained in the industry. This weeded out big mouths, wannabees and have a go hero gardeners etc from the decent jobs.

Those who had the experience and ability could make something of themselves and a good living.

Nowadays, you can't fairly find any work for a bloke in arb, short of raking up, unless he has umpteen tickets.

When he's got umpteen tickets, he's suddenly a qualified expert, wanting big money etc..

Then, because of the proliferation of certificated workers, who have the same certificates, but vastly differing levels of ability, those practical qualifications have, IMO, become watered down in their importance and standing.

My two penneth.

Interesting so far.

Especially the funding one Lyndon. Have you looked into this further?

Not sure about the overly pruned trees one. Does this not create more work in the future? Sorting out previous poor work?

Keep em coming!

Not being able to try new gear and techniques due to cost.
Not having the chance to learn from others (on the job)

good post