Volunteer Forester Program – Fall Registration
What to Expect
2026 Registration Opening in September
This four-week certificate program offers a unique opportunity to learn about trees from industry professionals. It is the first program in our Volunteer Program series. The topics covered in the fall session differ from those in the spring, providing participants with a broad range of urban forestry knowledge. To earn the Volunteer Forester I Certification, participants must attend at least three out of the four scheduled classes.
Our classes run from 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm at various parks and community centers around Knoxville to provide participants with a diversity of environments to learn about trees. There will be a mid-class break with light snacks provided. The classes may involve standing and walking outside and sitting inside in a classroom setting. Feel free to bring lawn chairs or blankets for outside classes.
Week 1: Introduction & How Trees Work
Wednesday, September 17, 2025; 6-8:30 pm
An introduction to volunteering with Trees Knoxville by Melissa Hinten, followed by a discussion of How Trees Work, which includes an introduction to tree biology, growth, and function led by Paul Ries Urban Forestry Consultant and Kasey Krouse, City of Knoxville Urban Forester.
Location: City of Knoxville Public Works Service Center, 3131 Morris Ave.
Week 2: How to Plant a Tree
Wednesday, September 24, 2025; 6-8:30 pm
How to Plant a Tree, a tree with a demonstration and hands-on activity, followed by a discussion of the best locations to plant trees or the “Right Tree, Right Place“. Melissa Hinten, Trees Knoxville’s Executive Director, and Kasey Krouse will co-lead this session.
Week 3: Wood Science
Wednesday, October 1, 2025; 6-8:30 pm
Wood Science, led by UT Professor Adam Taylor. This session will discuss the science of wood, wood products, and firewood banks.
Location: City of Knoxville Public Works Service Center, 3131 Morris Ave.
Week 4: Fall Tree Care
Wednesday, October 15, 2025; 6-8:30 pm:
Fall Tree Care, followed by a Q&A with Nicholas St. Sauveur, a certified master arborist from Davey Tree. Small group discussions and an assessment of the knowledge learned in the course will follow. Finally, the course will conclude with a presentation of certificates.
Location: Larry Cox Senior Center, 3109 Ocoee Trail.
Certification Requirements
To earn the Volunteer Forester Certificate, participants must:
- Complete at least 80% of all classes
- Volunteer a minimum of 10 hours per year at Trees Knoxville events
Graduates become part of a dedicated network of trained volunteers who help expand, protect, and advocate for Knoxville’s urban canopy.