Aboriculture Internship
Description
The Arboriculture Intern works alongside the Chief Arborist in maintaining and caring for the trees on the Morris Arboretum's 167 acres. The intern participates in all aspects of tree care management, including tree pruning, hazard inspection, tree support systems and integrated pest management. The intern will learn to teach climbing techniques and basic arboriculture concepts by assisting with arborist training for tree care professionals and climbing enthusiasts. The Arboriculture Internship is physically demanding and involves climbing and working in trees at heights in excess 60-80 ft. This position is supported by the Walter W. Root Memorial Arborist Internship Endowment.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and practice skills in all aspects of tree care (e.g. tree pruning, cabling and bracing and integrated pest management)
- Become a safe, effective, and efficient climber
- Operate heavy machinery such as chippers and large trucks with trailers
- Become proficient and confident with the maintenance and use of a chainsaw
- Participate in teaching and developing various arboricultural classes and demonstrations
- Assist the Outreach Arborist Team with consulting projects, tree inventories and assessments
- Take part in watering plants and containers on a rotating weekend schedule
- Attain a Pesticide Applicators License
- Complete an independent study project, under the direction of your supervisor
- Work at two weekend Arboretum events - Fall Festival and Plant Sale
- Work one afternoon in the Arboretum's Plant Clinic per week.
- Participate in intern core curriculum sessions as scheduled
- Learn to follow proper safety practices.
- Perform additional duties as requested
Qualifications/Requirements
- An academic background in forestry, horticulture, landscaping or a related field
- Basic tree climbing ability is helpful
- Written and verbal communication skills are essential
- Working knowledge of Word, Excel and PowerPoint preferred
- Be able and willing to communicate with Arboretum visitors
- Be able and willing to work independently and as part of a team
- Be able and willing to work in all weather conditions
- Be able to lift your own body weight
- A valid driver's license is required
Work Environment
The Arboriculture Intern works with the Arborist team, specifically the Chief Arborist. Safety-conscious techniques are emphasized, and recent innovations in climbing and rigging are demonstrated and put into practice. Other opportunities include attendance at the International Society of Arboriculture Conference and outreach activities including workshops and off-site consulting.
Past Project Topics
- Ecological Restoration of the Riparian Zone at the Morris Arboretum
- Mature Tree Care: Recommendations for the Morris Arboretum
- Management of Trees and Shrubs to Diminish the Construction Impact of the New Road into Bloomfield Farm
- Preserving Trees During Construction: A Look at the Bender Oak and How to Shelter It From Impending Construction
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