Abstract
The Tree Trimmer Program started in Broward County in September 2001 with the goal of improving industry professionalism. The Broward County Extension Division is responsible for training. Training is offered in English, Spanish and Creole. The Broward County Department of Planning and Environmental Protection issues the license and handles enforcement. In order to obtain the Tree Trimmer License, applicants need to submit the following documents: proof of experience; a credit reference; corporation/partnership verification; insurance; two photos; and the license fee. Phase I of the program consists of 4 hours of instruction, using slides and a video which cover basic tree terminology and biology; good and bad pruning practices; a written pruning exercise; and a quick field review. This is followed by a 50-question exam. To pass the exam for phase I, participants must answer 35 questions correctly. Phase II is designed to augment the initial curriculum and satisfy continuing education needs of licensed tree trimmers, It explores topics such as hazard tree assessment, tree repair, and customer relationships. As of June 2004, 2,059 participants had taken the Phase I exam, with 1,884 passing (91.5%). As of May 2004, 220 participants have taken the Phase II exam. A certificate of completion is issued to participants who pass the exam.
