Community News: Free Tree Workshop

If you are interested in horticulture -- this would be good workshop. -- Sara

Keep your trees healthy with proper pruning techniques taught by professionals in a free public workshop. Goleta Valley Beautiful, California ReLeaf and The Central Coast Region of the California Urban Forest Council are among the co-sponsors of a Citizen Pruner Workshop on Saturday February 7th from 8 AM to 2:30 PM at the Goleta Union School District Board Room, 401 N. Fairview Avenue in Goleta, across from the Goleta Public Library.

The workshop is open to anyone who is interested in the planting and maintenance of trees in urban landscapes. The workshop will be taught in an easy to follow format by local and state experts in tree care. Members of the public, whether novices or those who have some experience at tree care will benefit, as well as more experienced tree care professionals looking for a refresher. Six continuing education units are available for professionals. Pruning public shade trees will be emphasized, with limited fruit tree pruning discussion.

Workshop leaders Dan Condon, Dougal House Jr., George Jimenez and Ken Knight will demonstrate techniques that professionals use to care for young public trees. Participants will get actual experience in pruning, with all work being done from the ground and no tree climbing involved. A short open book exam and field practice at the end will demonstrate proficiency and ability to assist in future public young tree pruning projects in your area. There will be ample opportunities to discuss your specific questions with the speakers.

The workshop is free if you register in advance or $10 at the door. Registration forms are available by visiting the GVB website: www.goletavalleybeautiful.org. For more information call 685-7910. An optional box lunch is available for $7 if ordered in advance. The workshop is made possible through grants from the Central Coast Region Urban Forest Council and California ReLeaf. Other agencies co-sponsoring this workshop include the Santa Barbara School District, the City of Goleta, and California ReLeaf.

Attached courtesy photo by Ken Knight shows Arborist Dan Condon demonstrating pruning techniques at last year’s workshop.