Certification
ISA Board Certified Master Arborist
International Society of Arboriculture
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The ISA Board Certified Master Arborist® credential is the highest level of certification offered by ISA. This credential recognizes ISA Certified Arborists® who have reached the pinnacle of their profession.
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Skills taught
Apply advanced tree biology knowledge including anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and water relations to assess tree health and recommend evidence-based management interventionsPerform comprehensive soil assessments evaluating physical, chemical, and biological components to distinguish disturbed from undisturbed soils and develop management plans for problem soilsIdentify and evaluate biotic and abiotic disorders by analyzing symptoms, disease cycles, pest arthropods, pathogens, and tree physiological and structural defense responsesEvaluate and implement cultural, biological, mechanical, and chemical treatment options as part of an integrated plant health care programExecute advanced pruning practices by generating specifications based on best management practices to achieve structural, health, and aesthetic objectivesDevelop and implement tree protection and preservation plans for construction and development sites by assessing impacts and prescribing corrective treatmentsPerform comprehensive tree risk assessments including site assessment, biological and mechanical factor evaluation, target analysis, and risk mitigation recommendationCommunicate tree risk assessment findings, processes, and recommendations to tree risk managers and other stakeholders in accordance with professional standardsConduct plant appraisal using accepted methodologies and generate formal appraisal reports in compliance with industry standardsDevelop and manage urban forestry and tree inventory programs to support population-level tree management planning and policyApply tree preservation planning principles to protect individual trees and tree populations across a range of site conditions and development scenariosManage tree care business operations including contracts, client relations, regulatory compliance, and professional conduct in accordance with the ISA Code of EthicsDevelop and deliver safety programs by employing communication, oversight, emergency response procedures, and PPE standards to protect workers and the publicPerform advanced climbing, rigging, and aerial operations applying technical skills and safety protocols appropriate to complex tree work scenariosEvaluate and manage urban forest benefits including ecological, economic, social, and health values to inform policy, planning, and stakeholder engagementApply diagnostic processes integrating site history, environmental factors, and observable symptoms to develop and implement comprehensive tree management plansAssess tree structural stability and integrity using advanced biomechanical principles and instrumented or visual assessment methods to inform risk and management decisions