Title

A Cut Above: Tree Pruning Workshops

Relevance

{"ops":[{"insert":"Mature trees offer substantial benefits while requiring minimal care. However, to ensure their vitality and longevity, it's important for homeowners and volunteers who care for trees in their communities to follow key tree care practices, especially when pruning young trees. Participating in an expert-led workshop, such as that taught by an arborist or forestry professional, will provide individuals with accurate instruction on the basics of pruning as well as give them a better understanding of why removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches helps promote tree health and growth.\n"}]}

Response

{"ops":[{"insert":"To engage communities in sustainable tree care practices and promote healthier urban forests, the Vermont Urban and Community Forestry Program hosted two successful tree pruning workshops in Rutland and St. Albans, Vermont, in July 2024, aimed at residential homeowners and volunteers. Workshops were promoted locally with partners and volunteers as well as directly to recipients of Community Canopy, a free tree giveaway program. Adam McCullough, an urban forester with the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation, led the workshops. Each event began with a review of proper safety protocols, followed by a discussion on the reasons to prune trees. The importance of safety was emphasized, highlighting the need to remove overgrown or weakened branches that could pose a risk to people or property. Additionally, the aesthetic benefits of pruning were covered, which explained how this practice enhances the natural shape of the tree and helps maintain the desired size and form.\n"}]}

Results

{"ops":[{"insert":"Once participants understood the basics of pruning, McCullough demonstrated the skills needed for proper technique, using the three-cut method. This effective technique is used to safely remove branches without damaging the tree. Under his guidance, participants were given hand tools to put into practice the skills demonstrated. They helped prune several trees at each location, asking questions about technique, timing, how to hold tools, and much more. Kids’ activities, including tree scavenger hunts and tree crafts, were offered to encourage full family attendance. \n\nRespectively, there were 30 and 40 participants registered for each event, indicating a high need and interest. Unfortunately, the Rutland event was postponed due to severe July flooding, so only 13 people participated on the rescheduled date a week later. In St. Albans, 30 out of 40 registrants attended, which was higher than expected for a free event. Each workshop was advertised as lasting one hour, but 75% of participants stayed an extra hour for more questions, practice, and conversation.\n\nEight people submitted feedback after the workshop. Five indicated that they had learned new pruning techniques. All eight respondents said that they improved their knowledge of pruning techniques. Participants indicated that another valuable part of the workshop was enjoying a night out with their family and their community. This event not only provided valuable education on proper pruning techniques but also fostered community involvement and stewardship.\n\nOne individual commented, “It was great. Low key and friendly environment for all. Learned how to handle tools better. Learned how to prune more effectively.” Another felt that it was an “excellent presentation and hands-on experience.”\n"}]}

Public Value Statement

{"ops":[{"insert":"Teaching homeowners and community volunteers about sustainable tree care practices, including proper pruning techniques, will help promote tree health and longevity.\n"}]}

Primary Focus Area

Environmental Stewardship

Secondary Focus Area

Environmental Stewardship

Impact Statement