Properly caring for trees fosters healthy and resilient communities.
Tree care isn't always led just by certified arborists, so Illinois Extension is ensuring that everyone has access to research-backed information on practicing proper tree care through the Community Tree Care Series webinars. Communities with healthy, viable trees are more likely to benefit from improved air quality, reduced stress, and increased personal comfort for many.
Registration is required and includes access to six webinar sessions and recordings. The live sessions are from 9 to 11 a.m. Each webinar covers two main topics per date. The cost is $10 for general access to all sessions and $50 for those seeking Continuing Education Units for access to all sessions. This session theme is focuses on trees for pollinators and evergreen identification.
9 AM: People, Pollinators, and Trees: The Power of the Urban Forest
- Trees are keystone species in a healthy ecosystem, particularly in urban settings. This program highlights the essential role trees play in supporting wildlife, especially pollinators, while enhancing the character of neighborhoods and public spaces. Participants will learn how to select tree species that provide critical habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife, and develop a basic understanding of the benefits trees provide to the people who inhabitant communities. Presenter: Emily Swihart, Illinois Extension horticulture educator
10 AM: Needle Little Help? Evergreen Identification and Functions in the Landscape
- Explore evergreen identification and physiology in urban environments. This session equips participants with species-level ID skills, insights into stress tolerance, and management strategies for common problems for evergreens in Illinois landscapes, including emerging pests, site incompatibility, and abiotic stress. Learn how evergreen traits can inform decisions for planting, pruning, and diagnosing decline. Presenter: Sarah Vogel, Illinois Extension horticulture educator
Two hours of CEUs are available per session to Illinois Arborist Association certified arborists who qualify. During registration, please specify that you are attending as a certified professional and enter your ISA certification number. Arborists must attend the live sessions to receive CEUs.
For questions or if you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact Sarah Vogel and team at uie-CommunityTrees@illinois.edu or 217-877-6042. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.
About the Community Tree Care Series
Illinois Extension’s Community Tree Care Series webinars return with new topics and presenters to help individuals learn how to support tree health in their local landscapes. This training provides information and resources to those seeking additional insights for keeping trees healthy and minimizing risks.
The program is of special interest to arborists, public and private tree care professionals, municipal or county staff, community volunteers, and anyone interested in developing their tree care knowledge.
Additional Series Webinars
Jan. 20: Forest Health Updates and Fungal Mutualists
Jan. 27: Construction and Urban Soils
Feb. 3: Chainsaw Safety and Pruning Young Trees
Feb. 10: Changing Climate and Historic Pests
Feb. 17: After Planting and Tree Responses
