The Northern Kentucky Urban and Community Forestry Council is a regional non-profit organization with a goal to help communities realize the importance of trees. One goal of their strategic plan is to increase the education of public employees, organizations, and residents to appreciate the value of urban forests and understand how to design, establish, and maintain urban forests. The Council has asked the Cooperative Extension Service to lead this effort in regards to the annual Public Workers’ Tree Seminar.

The Campbell County Extension Agent for Natural Resources and Environmental Management, along with Extension Agents from Boone and Kenton County and representatives from the Urban Forestry Council, planned, promoted, implemented, and evaluated the March 9, 2018 Public Workers’ Tree Seminar. Educational topics were based on current issues such as tree failures, tree risk assessment, chainsaw safety, crabapple diseases, invasive species control, and how to engage the public in valuing trees and urban forests. Speakers were secured from the University of Kentucky, the Ohio State University, Davey Tree Experts, Great Parks of Hamilton County, Cincinnati, Covington, and Lexington City Governments. This Agent taught a session on tree species failure profiles. 108 individuals participated in this program of which 33 were I.S.A. Certified Arborist that each earned 6 continuing education units (CEUs).  Also, 33 commercial pesticide applicators each earned 2 hours.

47 post program evaluations were returned. Participants commented on how they will use the information in the future. “Good review on chainsaw safety. I will use the info!” “Tree risk assessment – I will be better prepared to evaluate tree condition.” “How to evaluate trees to make my job safer.” “I learned about tree failures & species prone to such failure and how urban governments go about management of urban forests.” “These will help me better manage a 22 acre public facility.” 

Those that have attended previous seminars also provided testimonials on how they have used the information in their profession. “Past seminars have helped me manage trees better in regards to diagnosing tree pest & disease.” “Assisting communities with program development and training.” “I have been to the chainsaw class and have used the safety techniques.” “More knowledgeable on the job – gives confidence when speaking with clients on the job most especially.” “Knowledge is the most important asset for the arborist’s ability to care for a tree. Please continue to provide these educational opportunities.”