TreeKeepers trains volunteers in proper care and maintenance of trees. TreeKeepers will assist staff with City of Columbia tree care projects. All projects are scheduled on Saturday mornings. Training includes the following subjects:
- Tree Identificationopens PDF file , presented by Eric Schmittel
- Emerald Ash Borer,opens PDF file presented by Steve Fritz
- Tree Planting,opens PDF file presented by Ethan Sakach and Owen Flinchpaugh
- Tree Pruningopens PDF file , presented by Macauley Stubbs
- Invasive Plant Species Identification and Removal,opens PDF file presented by Bess Frissell
*The presentations listed above are from March 2020, March 2023 and March 2024.
Other information:
- Bio-Diversity, Exotics & Vegetation Managementopens PDF file
- Insects & Diseaseopens PDF file
- Tree Pruning Cue Cardopens PDF file
- Pruning at Plantingopens PDF file
- Restoration Pruningopens PDF file
- Pruning Established Treesopens PDF file
Not only will you gain book knowledge, but you also will receive field training and experience to reinforce what you have learned. After completion of the course, you will be provided with opportunities to put your new knowledge into action in very visible ways, making a difference in your city. Complete an online application to become a TreeKeepers volunteer.
TreeKeepers Volunteers:
- Complete the TreeKeepers course.
- Agree to assist the City in organized tree care projects when available. Projects take place on Saturday mornings. Projects include a variety of activities including planting, pruning, mulching, invasives removal & general maintenance under supervision of the Forester.
- Use standard hand tools and equipment to plant, prune, remove, water fertilize, and mulch trees.
- Perform manual labor, including bending, stooping, digging, reaching, and lifting.
- Work cooperatively with City staff, volunteers, and general public.
- Work outdoors, often during varied weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.)
Do you have an interest and experience in arboriculture, urban forest management, tree care, horticulture, botany, ecology, environmental education, environmental policy, landscape architecture, or related fields? Consider applying your knowledge and experience by joining the Tree Board. The Tree Board meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month at 5p.m. in City Hall-701 E. Broadway.
How can I participate?
Email us at Volunteer@CoMo.gov or call 573.874.7499opens phone dialer