Volunteer Forester
Get Involved
The Volunteer Forester Program trains community members to plant, care for, and manage trees while fostering environmental leadership across Knoxville. Offered each fall and spring, the free program equips volunteers with hands-on skills to lead planting events and support Trees Knoxville’s tree planting goals. Participants gain practical experience, connect with fellow tree enthusiasts, and help grow a healthier, greener community.
Sign up for the Trees Knoxville newsletter to be among the first to know when registration opens.
Helping the Knoxville Community Grow
Details & Information
Our training program spans four weekly sessions. Topics cover tree biology, planting best practices, care and maintenance, and urban forest planning. Upon completion, volunteers may lead groups at planting events.
How to Get Started
Registration opens in April for the spring cohort and September for the fall. Sessions meet on Wednesday evenings for three hours over four weeks. Sign up early—spaces fill fast!
Sign up for the Trees Knoxville newsletter to be among the first to know when registration opens.
Spring Session Overview
In spring, Volunteer Forester dives into the wonderful world of tree science and gives you a deeper background in tree function. Classes run for 2.5 hours on Wednesday evenings over a four-week period.
Course Curriculum:
- Trees and the Community
- Tree and the Environment
- The Art and Science of Tree Pruning
- Invasive Species and Soils
Fall Session Overview
The fall session of our Volunteer Forester program is a hands-on experiential course that focuses on the essentials of urban forestry, tree planting, and tree health. Classes run for 2.5 hours on Wednesday evenings over a four-week period. Registration for the fall session opens in September.
Course Curriculum:
- Introduction to Trees Knoxville, Knoxville’s Urban Forest Master Plan & How Trees Work
- Tree Selection and Proper Tree Planting
- The Science of Wood
- Fall Tree Care
Eligibility & Benefits
Our Volunteer Forester program is open to everyone! After you complete one session (spring or fall), you’re eligible to lead groups during planting events with your shiny new set of tree skills. You’ll also get an uber-fashionable Trees Knoxville t-shirt after you participate in your first volunteer event.
Volunteer Forester FAQs
Find quick answers about training, scheduling, and what to expect as a Volunteer Forester.
How long is each session?
Classes run for 2.5 hours on Wednesday evenings over a four-week period.
Is there a cost?
We are currently offering the Volunteer Forester class to everyone for FREE! We do ask for a $25 refundable deposit to hold your place. Donations are always graciously accepted if you feel so inclined.
What is expected after certification?
After completing the Volunteer Forester Program, participants take on leadership roles at tree planting and care events, serve as stewards of their communities by sharing urban forestry knowledge, and help connect neighborhoods with resources and information to support a healthier urban forest.
What if I miss a session?
Participants are required to complete three of the four volunteer forester classes per session to earn the Volunteer Forester certificate. If you miss more than one class you can make these up at subsequent Volunteer Forester sessions.