The Arboricultural Association

Overview

The Arboricultural Association is a UK-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the sustainable management of trees and advancing the profession of arboriculture. It is a registered charity with the mission of fostering a society that better appreciates and cares for trees.

History

Established in 1964, the Association has played a pivotal role in the development of arboriculture. In 1965, it began publishing its journal, which has evolved over time. A significant milestone was reached in 1971 with the establishment of the Register of Consultants in Arboriculture, aimed at standardizing and improving the quality of arboricultural services. The organization merged with the Association of British Tree Surgeons and Arborists in 1974, further strengthening its position in the industry.

Governance

The organization is governed by an executive committee, which includes a president, three vice-presidents, and a chairman. Notable past members have included prominent figures in British public life.

Activities

The Association engages in various activities to achieve its mission, including:

• Education and Awareness: Promoting careers in arboriculture, providing apprenticeships, and organizing careers events.
• Research and Development: Offering annual grants for research into arboricultural topics to advance the science of tree care.
• Public Engagement: Educating the wider public about the benefits of trees and arboriculture through publications and community outreach.
• Professional Development: Supporting the development of arboricultural training courses and maintaining a register of consultants to ensure high standards in the profession.

Impact

As a leading organization in the UK, the Arboricultural Association contributes significantly to the advancement of arboriculture, enhancing both public awareness and professional standards in tree care. It has a diverse membership base, including professionals from government, consultancy, contracting, management, production, policymaking, research, and education sectors.

[1] https://www.trees.org.uk [2] https://www.trees.org.uk/About-Us/As-a-charity [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3964019 [4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arboricultural_Association [5] https://treecare.org.uk