arb association worth joining ????

[Gary Prentice]

Well put Jon

 

I'd agree.

 

There unfortunately is a large part of this industry that appear to treat it as a job, with no interest particularly in trees, other than as a means of earning a living. Membership of the AA is unlikely to benefit them, directly.

 

For those who view it differently, as a career path, the association provides many avenues and opportunities for progression. This may be in the form of training events, seminars and certainly through networking.

 

I won't apologise for saying that it hasn't historically been ideal, I don't think anyone with any knowledge of past events would argue that there has been some problems, but these all seem to be resolved and progression is being made.

 

I rejoined a few years back because of the benefits it provided me personally and I'm pleased to admit that I did. Through the association I've met people like Claus Mattheck and Giles Biddle, attended lectures and seminars - some of which were even free of charge, and generally become a better arborist/arboriculturist.

 

Membership works out a few pounds a week, less than a pint (probably less than half a pint at southern prices) so the choice is simple. Reap the benefits of the organization as a non member or contribute and get even more.

[roseyweb]

I'm a member at 120£ it's pricey if you was just a employee

 

Like anything the value you get out depends on how much you use it. Paul helped me through my chas which is only available to members, the courses are reduced which is handy for when I did my pti. Also if you have any queries arb related you get a very thorough and informative response very quickly.

 

Also I went on the reginal yearly jolly last year around burghley organised by the aa which was great.

 

It's nice to know there's someone there who's looking over the industry with our best interests at heart.

 

Guess it depends on if you take a keen intrest in the industry and help developing it and helping it progress or if you only ever aspire so be a gardener with a chainsaw.