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Why to consult an arborist

Winter is the best time to prune your trees. An arborist will save you both money and headaches.

In any tree care project, it’s important to involve a person or company with the experience and knowledge to help your tree grow strong and stay healthy.

Most licensed arborists have passed general knowledge tests that qualify them to perform pruning, as well as wiring and lightning protection work. Their knowledge of biology and the nature of trees helps them determine health problems (structure, diseases, etc.) that trees may have at some point.

Here’s what to look for in a potential contractor:

  • Any individual or company doing work within the city limits must have a permit from the City of San Antonio.
  • Certificates of insurance, including proof of liability for personal and property damage, and workers’ compensation. Phone the insurance company or agent to ensure the policy is current.
  • A written contract that fully explains the work to be done, on what day, and the price per service performed.

Also, ask if the contractor can show proof of membership with one of these professional arborist associations: TreesAreGood.org, San Antonio Arborist Association, the American Society of Consulting Arborists or the Tree Care Industry Association.

 

Picture of David Abrego
David Abrego
David Abrego is a conservation consultant for SAWS. David, a native of Panama, likes to spend his time surrounded by plants and fruit trees. So if you can’t find him at home, he’s probably working in a greenhouse. David is also an arborist and an irrigation technician.
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