Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the training class, and what is the format?
Tree Steward training takes seven weeks, beginning September 13th and ending November 1st. Training is a combination of self-paced instruction through readings and videos, usually followed by hands-on practice for a few hours on Sunday afternoon. See the syllabus below for a list of the topics covered.
Can I miss any of the hands-on practices?
To graduate and become an intern, you must complete all the required course work, including the hands-on practices. If you cannot attend a session, contact the training team as soon as possible to arrange for a makeup session.
Will there be tests?
You do not need to pass a test to complete the course, but we will have short quizzes throughout the training to help us ensure that the class is on track and important information has been adequately covered.
Are there any other requirements during the training?
You will research and create a short (no more than five minutes) Info Spot presentation to share with the class at one of the hands-on sessions.
After I finish the class, what do I need to do to become a Tree Steward?
Once you finish the class you will be an intern and required to complete 30 volunteer hours the first year. At that point you will be a full-fledged Tree Steward. To remain in good standing, each year you must complete at least 20 volunteer hours, 8 hours of continuing education, and pay annual dues (currently $20/year).
Can I earn volunteer hours before the class is finished?
Yes—you can volunteer and earn hours for any activity once you have completed the class and hands-on practice for that topic. For example, after you have completed the Planting class, you can volunteer for any tree plantings and count those hours toward your internship.Syllabus Summary
Syllabus Summary
Sunday, September 13: 1:30 -3:30 pm
Welcome and Tree Anatomy Walk
- Welcome and Introductions
- Training overview and what to expect
- Distribution of materials
- Tree anatomy walk
Week of September 13
Self-Paced: Tree Physiology and Pruning
Sunday, September 20
Hands-on Practice: Pruning
- To prune or not to prune
- What, when, and how to prune
- Horrible pruning practices
- Advanced pruning opportunities with Arlington County
Week of September 20
Self-Paced: Soils and Storm Water/Planting
Sunday, September 27 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Hands-on Practice: Planting
- Acorns, bare root, containers
- How to plant
- Watering/mulching
- Staking
- Deer protection
Week of September 27
Self-Paced: Tree ID
Sunday, October 4
Hands-on Practice: Tree ID Walk
Week of October 4
Self-Paced: Urban Tree Problems and Pests
No Hands-on Practice: Long Weekend
Week of October 11
Self-Paced: Invasive Trees and Plants
Sunday, October 18
Hands-on Practice: Invasive Removal
- Remove ivy from trees
- Invasive plant identification
- Removal strategies
Week of October 18
Self-Paced: Right Tree, Right Place
Sunday, October 25
Hands-on Practice: Home Visit Role Play
- Determine needs of homeowner
- Analyze site
- Make suitable recommendations
Week of October 25
Self-Paced: The Natural History of Trees and the Wildlife that Depend on Them
Sunday, November 1
How You Can Volunteer with TSAA
Student Presentations
