• Tree Risk Workshop - Focus on Research for Likelihood of Failure Bias (8:00 am - 12:30 pm)

• The Grand Tree Pests Review (1:00 - 4:00 pm)

• The Battle of the Branches: Key Rulings Shaping Carolina Tree Law (8:00 am - 4:00 pm)

• ISA Certification Exams (2:00 - 5:30 pm)

Tuesday, February 24, 8:00 am - 12:30 pm

Presenter: Mel Mount, University of Tennessee (Knoxville)

The workshop will focus on research being conducted at University of TN (Knoxville) to determine bias in the determination of liklelihood of failure. Workshop will provide a brief background of TRAQ methodology, though TRAQ qualification is not required to attend. A brief review of basicTRAQ terminolgy along with a discussion of liability and limitations. Attendees will rate the likelihood of falure for different tree species, defects, and response growth. Three trees (virtual) will be assessed for level of risk. The results will be used as part of the research to determine the presence or role of bias in tree risk assessment. This will be excellent practice for those with the TRAQ credential, a great introduction and primer for a TRAQ course, and will also assist with ongoing research! A lunch will be provided from Noon-12:30 for workshop attendees.

WORKSHOP FEES (includes lunch)
Standard Fee @ $25

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Tuesday, February 24, 1:00 - 4:00 pm

Presenter: Dr. David Coyle, Associate Professor, Forest Health and Invasive Species, Clemson University

From one of the best in the business, Dr. Coyle will provide a half-day run down of what’s hot in the southeastern U.S. Identification tips, prevention tactics, and management strategies, you name it, he's gonna cover it! Applicable for beginner, intermediate, and expert level arborists and tree care aficionados.

• Pine tree insect pests (bark beetles, woodborers, sawflies)

• Pine tree diseases (rusts, root diseases, foliar diseases)

• Hardwood insect pests (defoliators, bark and ambrosia beetles, woodborers, gall makers)

• Hardwood diseases (foliar diseases, cankers, root rots)

For each topic, we will cover pest identification, prevention, and chemical/non-chemical management strategies with a focus on urban/managed tree situations.

ISA credits will be provided. We will apply for SAF CEUs and pesticide credits as well.

WORKSHOP FEES
Southern Chapter Members @ $75
Standard Fee @ $125
Student @ $25

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Tuesday, February 24, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Presenter: James Komen, Esq, Consulting Arborist, Class One Arboriculture, LLC

Come learn about the courtroom battles that define the contours of tree law in North and South Carolina. Using a dynamic, Socratic discussion format, we'll unpack pivotal cases involving: Who pays when a tree fails? What's a tree worth? and much more! Discover the critical similarities and surprising differences between the states' precedents and sharpen your legal perspective on urban forestry and property disputes.

WORKSHOP FEES (includes lunch)
Southern Chapter Members @ $180
Standard Fee @ $230
Student @ $50

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Tuesday, February 24, 2:30 - 5:30 pm

DEADLINE TO REGISTER IS JANUARY 30!

ISA Certified Arborist, Utility Arborist, and Municipal Specialist written exams are scheduled for Tuesday, February 24, 2026. Applicants for each exam must register by January 30, 2026 at the ISA website. If you’re new to ISA, you’ll need to create an ISA profile at creating or logging in to your ISA account.

 Registering for an exam includes 2 steps. First, you must complete an application for your selected credential. On your ISA profile, find the link “Apply for an ISA Certification” Complete the application for your selected credential. Second, once the application is submitted and approved by ISA, then you can register for an exam. Be sure to submit your application well in advance of registering for an exam as it can take several weeks to get a submitted application approved.

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