Summary
In this episode, Matt Vinnett shares his childhood connection with trees and how it led him to discover arboriculture and tree climbing. He discusses his involvement in tree climbing competitions and his passion for bringing people into the industry. Matt also highlights the significance of Arbor Day in Winnipeg and the sense of community and collaboration it fosters. He reflects on his recent experience in Hong Kong and the respect and value people have for trees in the city. Matt concludes by discussing the lessons trees can teach us in human interaction. This conversation explores the challenges and complexities of tree appraisal and the value of trees beyond their monetary worth. The speakers discuss the concept of tree depreciation and the struggle to appreciate trees beyond their monetary value. They also delve into the conundrum of assigning value to living things and the cultural significance of trees. The conversation highlights the importance of balancing the needs of trees and people in arboriculture and the symbolic value of trees in representing history and significance. The speakers also touch on the connection between trees and wildlife, the lifespan and legacy of trees, and the impact of logging on tree energy. They discuss the ownership and value of trees, the need to educate others on their value, and the challenges of tree appraisal in different contexts. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of understanding tree resilience and adaptability, and the collaborative nature of arboriculture.

Takeaways

• Childhood experiences with trees can shape a person's passion for arboriculture.
• Tree climbing competitions can be a gateway for people to enter the industry.
• Arbor Day events can foster a sense of community and collaboration among arborists.
• The respect and value for trees in different cultures can provide valuable insights.
• Trees can serve as a model for human interaction, promoting respect and giving space to one another. Tree appraisal is a complex process that goes beyond assigning monetary value to trees. It involves appreciating the cultural and symbolic significance of trees.
• Balancing the needs of trees and people is crucial in arboriculture. Arborists must find ways to care for trees while accommodating their location and meeting the needs of both parties.
• Trees have a lifespan and legacy that extends beyond their life. They provide habitat and contribute to the ecosystem even after they have fallen and decomposed.
• The value of trees goes beyond their physical presence. They have a cultural and emotional value that should be considered in tree appraisal.
• Collaboration and synergy among arborists and stakeholders are essential in promoting the value and care of trees.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Childhood Connection with Trees

03:33
Discovering Arboriculture and Climbing Trees

08:24
Involvement in Tree Climbing Competitions

10:45
Bringing People into the Industry

18:30
The Significance of Arbor Day in Winnipeg

26:29
The Sense of Community and Collaboration in Arbor Day

36:22
The Connection to Trees in Hong Kong

45:43
The Lessons Trees Can Teach Us in Human Interaction

47:10
Appreciating Trees: The Challenge of Tree Depreciation

48:38
The Value of Trees and the Conundrum of Tree Appraisal

49:28
The Significance of Trees and Cultural Value

50:49
Balancing the Needs of Trees and People in Arboriculture

51:44
The Importance of Trees in Symbolizing History and Significance

52:14
The Connection Between Trees and Wildlife

53:01
The Lifespan and Legacy of Trees

54:28
The Impact of Logging and Clean-up on Tree Energy

55:55
Ownership and Value of Trees

56:32
Educating Others on the Value of Trees

57:54
The Challenge of Tree Appraisal in Hong Kong

59:17
The Need for a Different Approach to Tree Appraisal

01:00:08
The Pricelessness of Trees and the Limitations of Money

01:01:33
The Importance of Understanding Tree Resilience and Adaptability

01:02:11
The Lack of Biological Control Practices in Hong Kong

01:03:45
The New Concept of Arboriculture in Hong Kong

01:04:47
The Battle Against Dutch Elm Disease in Winnipeg

01:05:45
The Importance of Collaboration and Synergy in Arboriculture

01:06:28
The Arbor Day Event in Winnipeg

Summary

Blair Veitch, with 40 years of experience in the tree industry, shares his journey and insights. He recalls his early connection to trees, from climbing a 60-foot white spruce as a child to logging with his father. Blair's passion for tree biology grew over time, leading him to study and learn about trees. He emphasizes the importance of tree climbing competitions and training events in his career. Blair also discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning from utility work to residential and commercial tree care. He highlights the need for physical fitness and self-care in the industry and draws parallels between trees and human resilience. Blair encourages young arborists to be patient and see things through, as good things will come with time and perseverance. The conversation explores the advancements in tree climbing and how technology has made the job easier and safer. It discusses the changes in the tree industry over the past 30 years, including scientific advancements and the need for proper trade recognition. The future of the tree industry is examined, with a focus on the importance of trade recognition and the role of associations in driving education and professionalism. The challenges in establishing arboriculture as a trade are discussed, including the fear of change and the need for organized labor. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the role of youth in embracing change and shaping the future of the industry.

 
Takeaways

• Early experiences with trees can shape a lifelong passion for tree care.
• Tree climbing competitions and training events provide valuable learning and teaching moments.
• Transitioning from utility work to residential and commercial tree care requires adaptability and learning new skills.
• Maintaining physical fitness and self-care is important for a long and healthy career in the tree industry.
• Patience and perseverance are key to success in the industry, and good things come to those who stick with it. Advancements in technology have made tree climbing easier and safer.
• The tree industry has undergone significant changes in the past 30 years, with scientific advancements and the need for proper trade recognition.
• Trade recognition is crucial for the future of the tree industry, and associations play a vital role in driving education and professionalism.
• Challenges in establishing arboriculture as a trade include the fear of change and the need for organized labor.
• The youth have an important role in embracing change and shaping the future of the industry.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

01:31
Early Connection to Trees

04:01
Passion for Tree Biology

06:13
Tree Climbing Competitions

07:20
Transition from Utility to Residential

08:17
First Time Climbing with a Harness

09:47
Involvement in Tree Climbing Competitions

10:33
Transition from Alberta to BC

14:23
Maintaining Personal Fitness and Self-Care

15:22
Drawing Parallels from Trees to Life

20:57
Maintaining Physical Health

25:19
Comparison to Trees

28:13
Adaptability and Change

30:10
Connection to Nature and Countryside

33:26
Advancements in the Industry

35:53
Challenges of the New Generation

38:07
Patience and Perseverance

44:25
Advancements in the Industry

44:44
Advancements in Tree Climbing

46:13
Changes in the Tree Industry

47:08
Recognition of Arboriculture as a Trade

48:16
The Future of the Tree Industry

51:57
The Role of Associations in Trade Recognition

55:50
Challenges in Establishing Arboriculture as a Trade

58:23
The Fear of Change

59:06
The Role of Youth in Embracing Change

59:48
Conclusion

Summary

Jeff Dice shares his journey in the tree industry, which began with a family tragedy that led him to work in his father's tree business at a young age. He recounts his experiences with the Vermeer Model 10 stump machine and the support his family received from the local tree community. Jeff also discusses his involvement with the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and his career at Penn State, where he focused on tree preservation and the integration of different departments. He emphasizes the importance of trees in creating a positive environment and attracting students to the university. This conversation explores the impact and historical significance of trees on the Penn State campus. The majestic elm trees, planted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, were a symbol of the university's history and beauty. However, the campus faced the devastation of Dutch elm disease, resulting in the loss of many trees. The conversation highlights the efforts to preserve and restore the area, including the creation of an endowment through the sale of salvaged wood. The discussion also delves into the reverence and respect people have for old trees and the importance of fostering a connection with nature.

Takeaways

• Family tragedies can shape one's career path and lead to unexpected opportunities.
• The support and camaraderie within the tree industry can be a powerful force in overcoming challenges.
• Volunteering and involvement in professional organizations can provide valuable networking opportunities and personal growth.
• Trees play a crucial role in creating a positive environment and attracting people to educational institutions. The historical significance of trees on campus can create a sense of beauty and pride.
• Preserving and restoring old trees requires careful planning and community involvement.
• The loss of trees due to disease or construction can have a profound impact on the community.
• Respecting and caring for trees is a responsibility that arborists and tree enthusiasts should embrace.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

03:00
Family Tragedy and Entry into the Tree Industry

06:30
Early Work in the Tree Industry

09:45
The Vermeer Model 10 Stump Machine

12:23
Involvement with ISA and Volunteering

15:18
Career at Penn State

18:01
Involvement with ITCC

22:40
Impact of Trees on Personal and Professional Life

24:35
Transition into the Human Forest

26:33
Memories of Climbing at Penn State

30:21
Integration of Different Departments in Tree Preservation

35:26
Value of Trees at Penn State

46:20
The Impact of Trees on Campus

47:11
The Historical Significance of the Elms at Penn State

47:31
The Landscape Plan for Penn State

48:28
The Majestic Elm Trees

49:26
The Devastation of Dutch Elm Disease

50:25
Preserving the Legacy Trees

51:18
The Crane School and Tree Removal

52:06
Restoring the Area After the Tree Loss

53:07
The Legacy of the Elm Trees

55:29
The Endowment and Legacy of the Trees

56:57
The Reverence for Old Trees

58:15
The Spiritual and Sentimental Connection to Trees

59:12
The Connection to Trees from the Canopy

01:01:23
The Respect for Old Living Things

01:02:23
The Jealousy of Longevity

01:03:41
The Longevity of Lobsters and Trees

01:04:37
The Sentimental Quality of Old Trees

01:05:21
The Respect for Old Trees

01:06:07
Respecting the Trees and Each Other

01:07:06
Preserving Trees During Construction

01:08:13
The Special Place Created by Trees

01:08:27
The Respect and Connection to Trees

01:09:49
The Importance of Respect in Tree Care

01:10:16
Named Trees on Campus

01:11:22
The Significance of Named Trees

01:12:18
The Honor of Working with Trees

01:13:35
The Playbook for Developing Respect for Trees

01:14:18
The Perfect Crew and the Importance of Respect

01:15:51
The Impact of the ITCC

Summary

In this episode, Matt Follett, a researcher in the tree care industry, shares his journey and insights. He discusses his first memory of connecting with trees and the beauty of different forests. Matt also talks about his transition to working with trees and how he got involved in research. He shares his experience pursuing a PhD and the challenges of applying scientific research to everyday tree work. Matt emphasizes the importance of blending art and science in the industry and the value of trends and data in shaping tree work techniques.

Takeaways

• Different forests offer unique experiences and beauty.
• Research plays a crucial role in shaping tree work techniques.
• Applying scientific research to everyday tree work can be challenging due to the complexity and variability of trees.
• Blending art and science is essential in the tree care industry.
• Trends and data can help guide and improve tree work practices.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction

01:27
First Memory of Connecting with Trees

03:25
Appreciating Different Forests

05:03
Transition to Working with Trees

06:02
Meeting Ian Bruce

07:06
Staying in the Tree Industry

08:57
Pursuing Research

11:58
PhD Journey

15:44
Importance of Scientific Research

18:35
Challenges of Applying Science to Tree Work

22:45
Blending Art and Science in Tree Work

24:59
Trends in Tree Work Techniques

27:50
Applying Science to Everyday Tree Work

30:40
Importance of Research Verification

Summary

Tony, Johnny, and Dwayne discuss the meaning of trees and how they can be appreciated more when they're no longer present. They explore the ever-changing nature of trees and the lessons they can teach us about growth and adaptation. They also discuss the relativity of existence and the balance and rhythm of life. Johnny shares his optimism for the future of the arboriculture industry and the importance of trusting and supporting each other. They conclude by emphasizing the value of letting go and going with the flow. In this conversation, Johnny shares his experience with recovering from severe injuries and dealing with lingering pain. He discusses the challenges he faced and the various treatments he tried, including regenerative medicine. Johnny emphasizes the importance of not losing hope and making a long-term commitment to healing. He also highlights the transformative power of injuries as opportunities for personal growth.

Takeaways

• Appreciate the meaning and value of trees in your life before they're gone.
• Trees teach us about growth, adaptation, and the ever-changing nature of life.
• Find joy in the present moment and embrace the ups and downs of life.
• Trust and support others in your industry to create a positive and collaborative community.
• Learn to let go and go with the flow, allowing life to unfold naturally. Never give up hope, even in the face of severe injuries and chronic pain.
• Explore different treatment modalities, such as regenerative medicine, to find what works for you.
• Take small steps towards healing, focusing on areas like diet, exercise, and sleep.
• View injuries as opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement.

Chapters

00:00
The Meaning of Trees

39:07
Appreciating Trees When They're Gone

40:04
The Ever-Changing Nature of Trees

43:39
Lessons from Trees

45:56
The Relativity of Existence

49:13
Balance and Rhythm in Life

53:46
Finding Joy in the Present Moment

56:45
Embracing the Ups and Downs

59:00
The Dynamic Equilibrium of Trees

01:02:02
The Exciting Future of the Arboriculture Industry

01:07:17
Letting Go and Trusting Others

01:12:02
Relaxing and Going with the Flow

Summary

In this episode, Dwayne and Tony reflect on the first year of the Tree Actions podcast. They discuss the initial purpose of the podcast and how it has evolved into a platform for sharing stories and connecting with the arboriculture community. They highlight the common themes that have emerged from the interviews and the value of preserving and sharing the history of the industry. Dwayne and Tony also announce their plans to create social media pages and a Patreon page to further engage with listeners. They emphasize the importance of improving introductions and making the podcast more accessible to new listeners. Finally, they share personal stories of eye-opening experiences in tree care and the lessons they learned from them. In this conversation, Dwayne and Tony reflect on the gift of life and the importance of appreciating every moment. They discuss the need to avoid judgment and embrace learning from others' experiences. The conversation also explores the concept of the span of life and living, emphasizing the value of making the most of the time we have. Trees serve as markers in their lives, reminding them of significant moments and decisions. The power of storytelling is highlighted as a way to pass on knowledge and connect with others. The hosts express their gratitude for the podcast and their intentions for the future.

Takeaways

• The Tree Actions podcast has evolved into a platform for sharing stories and connecting with the arboriculture community.
• Preserving and sharing the history of the industry is valuable and appreciated by listeners.
• Dwayne and Tony plan to create social media pages and a Patreon page to engage with listeners and provide additional content.
• Improving introductions and making the podcast more accessible to new listeners is a priority.
• Both Dwayne and Tony share personal stories of eye-opening experiences in tree care and the lessons they learned from them.

Chapters

00:00
Reflecting on Year One

03:09
The Connection Between Trees and Life

07:44
Common Themes and Valuing History

09:32
Utilizing Social Media and Patreon

20:18
Improving Introductions and Accessibility

25:56
The Unlisted Podcast and Finding Tree Actions

26:18
Dwayne's First Eye-Opening Experience in Tree Care

36:27
Tony's Journey into Arboriculture and Learning Moments

43:59
Appreciating the Gift of Life

45:29
The Importance of Learning and Avoiding Judgment

51:06
The Span of Life and Living

53:00
Trees as Markers in Life

57:54
The Power of Storytelling

58:21
Gratitude and Intentions

A discussion with arborist, friend and "tree dog" Dave Lutes

A discussion with Arborist Andrew Hordyk

Buckingham has employed Chris Delavera for 35 years, worked throughout many different areas of the Buckingham Group (including retail sales), and has held the title of VP of Sales since 2013.  To better understand Buckingham’s customer base, the work they performed and the products they used, he has taken numerous trainings including rope access Sprat Level 1, Certified Tower TTT, Arbormaster Training, levels 1, 2, 3 & 4 and the NEPPA Pre-apprentice lineman program.  Chris has played an integral role in the new products Buckingham has introduced into the market over the last 30 years.

Chris has been married to his wife Lisa for 31 years, they have two daughters and reside in Windsor, NY.

A discussion with Amanda Carpenter