Penn State Extension will offer the Arborist Short Course for entry-level arborists, individuals interested in taking the ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Certified Arborist exam, arborists who need a refresher, and tree tenders. The course will take place at the Berks County Agriculture Center, 1238 County Welfare Road, Leesport, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 14; from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15; from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 21; and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 22.

Designed to increase working tree knowledge and professional arborist skills, successful completion of the four-day Arborist Short Course will prepare participants for the ISA Certified Arborist exam and improve their marketability. This certification designates a level of professionalism that most arborists do not have. The course does not offer the examination.

Participants will learn about diagnosis of plant diseases and insect pests; nutrition and fertilization; selection, installation, and establishment of trees and shrubs; soil and water interaction and management; plant identification; assessment and risk management; pruning; construction impacts and management; and safety and climbing.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and Pesticide Applicator (PDA) Credits are available to ISA Certified Arborist participants who have not previously attended and received CEUs from the course. The program is offered with support from the USDA US Forest Service and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The program is also in partnership with Pennsylvania's TreeVitalize program.

There is a fee to attend. Registration is required by Monday, March 6. For details and registration, visit http://www.extension.psu.edu and search for "Arborist Short Course."

Participants can register to receive a copy of the "ISA Arborist Certification Study Guide" or register without a study guide if they already have one. The ISA Study Guide is required for the course. The ISA Study Guide can be included in registration for an additional fee, or participants can bring the study guide that they have purchased or borrowed.