Volunteer Forester Program – Spring Registration
What to Expect
Ready to deepen your knowledge of trees and serve as a leader in Knoxville’s urban forest? Our Spring Volunteer Forester Program provides hands-on training led by local experts and certified arborists, combining classroom learning with practical, outdoor experience.
Classes meet on Wednesday evenings in April (April 1, 8, 15, & 22) from 6:00–8:30 PM and include both indoor and outdoor instruction.
Participants gain practical skills in tree identification, care, and community engagement—preparing them to take on leadership roles at tree planting and care events and to serve as trusted urban forestry stewards.
Week 1: Trees and the Community
Wednesday, April 1, 2026; 6-8:30 pm
Discover the connection between trees and the communities they serve. We’ll explore how urban forestry contributes to public well-being, neighborhood livability, and environmental quality. Learn how volunteers can share knowledge and serve as informed stewards of Knoxville’s urban canopy.
This class will be led by Trees Knoxville Executive Director, Melissa Hinten, and the City of Knoxville’s Urban Forester, Kasey Krouse.
Location: TBD
Week 2: Trees and the Environment
Wednesday, April 8, 2026; 6-8:30 pm
Explore how light, temperature, wind, and water influence tree growth and health. We’ll examine common urban site challenges such as compacted soils and limited root space. Learn practical strategies to help trees survive and thrive despite these conditions.
This class will be led by Davey Tree District Manager, Nick St. Sauveur
Location: TBD
Week 3: The Art and Science of Tree Pruning
Wednesday, April 15, 2026; 6-8:30 pm
Gain practical knowledge about why, when, and how to prune trees properly. We’ll review core pruning principles that promote strong structure and long-term tree health. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of safe and effective pruning practices in urban settings.
This class will be led by University of Tennessee Arborist Sam Adams and Oregon State University Director of the Graduate Certificate in Urban Forestry, Paul Ries.
Location: TBD
Week 4: Invasive Species and Soils
Wednesday, April 22, 2026; 6-8:30 pm:
Learn to identify common invasive plants and pests that threaten our urban forest. We’ll discuss how they spread, their impact on native ecosystems, and strategies for prevention and management. We’ll also explore how invasive species can disrupt soil health and weaken the systems that support resilient trees.
This class will be led by UT Extension Agent Lee Rumble.
Location: TBD
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.
Ready to Become a Volunteer Forester?
If you’re passionate about trees, eager to learn from local experts, and ready to take on a leadership role in Knoxville’s urban forest, we invite you to apply for the Volunteer Forester Program.
Spots are limited, and sessions fill quickly. Join a growing network of trained volunteers who are helping plant, care for, and advocate for trees across our community.
Register today and take the next step in becoming a steward of Knoxville’s urban canopy.
While the program is free, we ask for a $25 refundable deposit to hold your spot.
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