ArborTIMES is a digital publication for the tree care industry that delivers tree care business, safety, & equipment news.
Issue 04 | Summer 2023 arbortimes.org
Tree Care Business, Safety & Equipment News
STUMP GRINDERS: An Incredible Asset for Companies of All Sizes 6
Building Strong Teams In the dynamic and demanding field of arboriculture, building teamwork and effective leadership are crucial for success.
Improve Employee Retention To limit the impact of workers leaving their jobs, businesses must take steps to develop effective retention strategies addressing the factors that can trigger a worker’s departure.
Bathroom Breaks in the Field When nature calls, most arborists discreetly duck behind a tree or climb into the back of the chipper truck. This sounds easy enough, but isn’t there a better way?
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Editor’s Note Dear readers,
We’ve come full circle—the summer issue marks one year since the team here launched ArborTIMES . We created this digital magazine as a sister to ArborEXPO, to maintain a connection between events and to keep you up to date on tree care busi- ness, safety and equipment news.
On the cover: Adding a stump grinder to your business can be an incredible asset for companies of all sizes. Photo courtesy of Morbark.
ISSUE 4, SUMMER 2023
One year in, and it’s with mixed emotions that I write this goodbye letter as the editor. I was flattered to be asked to start this publication from scratch, and I had a good deal of fun coming up with topics and working with subject-matter experts. However, it’s time for me to move on to other opportunities. I’m thrilled to pass the baton to the new editor, Millicent Skiles. The future of ArborTIMES is in good hands.
PUBLISHER Sachin Mohan: Mohan@ArborTimes.org EDITOR Emily W. Duane: editor@ArborTimes.org INCOMING EDITOR Millicent Skiles: editor@ArborTimes.org TECH DIRECTOR Richard May: info@ArborTimes.org SAFETY AND TRAINING ADVISORS Ken Palmer Jared Abrojena SENIOR ADVISORS Dane Buell Mark Garvin PRODUCED BY EDGE AHEAD ASSOCIATES For editorial and advertising inquiries: 1 Store Hill Rd, PO BOX # 334 Old Westbury, NY 11568 Tel. (516) 399-2627 Email: Mohan@ArborTimes.org Web: ArborTimes.org No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. All uncredited photography is either supplied or sourced from a stock image bank.
In safety,
Emily W. Duane
I am so excited to join the ArborTIMES team and explore the topics and issues that are important to you. When Emily offered me a choice of topics for my first article, I knew I had to write about on-the-job bathroom solutions. I mean, who hasn’t wondered about that? This article represents the kind of stories I love to write: the ones that satisfy my curiosity and provide me with useful information. Give it a read and let me know what you think.
A little about me. I began my career as a scrappy newspaper reporter in San Fran- cisco. My favorite assignment was profiling the 13 underdog mayoral candidates in that year’s election. Since then, I’ve written about government, law, education, parenting, social issues, mental health, neuroscience, architecture, gardening, life- style. Basically, whatever I’m curious about. A move to a new house on a hillside prompted my interest in horticulture. I failed to tame that damn yard so many times that I ended up enrolling in my local Master Gar- dener program out of pure rage. It wasn’t long before I became enamored with pruning. I truly love the science and art of it. As a member of the pruning guild, I volunteered in school gardens and “invested” far too much money in ladders, saws and clippers. Of course, this doesn’t make me a professional arborist or tree care expert, just someone who appreciates the work you do. Ultimately, what I know best are people and their stories. As editor of ArborTIMES , most of my work will be conducted behind the scenes, researching the industry and planning for future issues. However, I do plan to write for every issue and would love to hear from you: what are you curious about?
TO SUBSCRIBE email: info@ArborTimes.org or subscribe online: arbortimes.org/subscribe
Drop me a line at editor@ArborTimes.org and let me know.
Millicent Skiles
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 3
Table of Contents
ISSUE 4, SUMMER 2023
ArborTIMES is a fully digital publication for the tree care industry from Edge Ahead Associates, creator of ArborEXPO, the industry’s first indoor/outdoor trade show and conference for arborists and green industry professionals. We’re connecting with experts, business owners, master trainers and more to identify top stories and educational opportunities to deliver right to your inbox on a quarterly basis.
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All Access.................................................. 2 Almstead ................................................43 Altec .......................................................16 Arbornote................................................ 29 Advertiser Index EDITOR’S NOTE 3 ArborTIMES will maintain a connection between events to keep you up-to-date on tree care business, safety and equip- ment news. STUMP GRINDERS: AN INCREDIBLE ASSET FOR TREE CARE COMPANIES OF ALL SIZES By Anastasia Selby Stump removal is a natural part of any arborist’s or landscaper’s work, but removing stumps can be an arduous and unpredictable practice. BUILDING STRONG TEAMS, LEADERSHIP AND EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS IN THE ARBORICULTURE INDUSTRY By Rebecca Seibel In the dynamic and demanding field of arboriculture, building strong teams and effective leadership are crucial for success.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
SAFETY TAILGATE
Each month we’ll highlight a variety of new and innovative products related to the tree care industry.
Tree care is dangerous work, and our decisions hold the weight of life and death, along with the potential for the destruc- tion of personal property.
Greenworks ..............................................19 Mat Masters..............................................37 Northern Atlantic Financial ......................... 35 Quest Products LLC................................... 23 RBG, Inc................................................... 13 Sennebogen .............................................31 Tracked Lifts ................................ Back Cover
ArborSystems ...........................................27 Bandit....................................................... 9 BIK ......................................................... 40 Branch Manager ........................................10 Doggett .................................................. 30 Edge Ahead Associates ..............................22 Gene Bridges Foundation ............................ 41
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20 HOW CAN COMPANIES IMPROVE EMPLOYEE RETENTION? By Isidro “Izzy” Galicia
To limit the impact of workers leaving their jobs, businesses must take steps to develop effective retention strategies that focus on identifying and addressing the factors that can trigger a worker’s departure.
24 EXPLORING URBAN TREES AND THEIR BENEFITS TO WILDLIFE By Matt Knull
What’s not oen considered are the benefits trees provide to wildlife in urban forests or along the powerline right-of-way (ROW). A basic understanding of which trees benefit native wildlife, such as insects and birds, is essential to create a fully functional and balanced urban forest.
32 NAVIGATING BATHROOM BREAKS IN THE FIELD By Millicent Skiles
When nature calls, most arborists discreetly duck behind a tree or climb into the back of the chipper truck. This sounds easy enough, but it also begs the question: isn’t there a better way?
38 EVERY TREE CARE COMPANY NEEDS A SYSTEM TO MANAGE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION By Mark Shipp, CIC
Workers’ compensation insurance is a vital component to the health of your business. Many companies have stated to us throughout the years that next to payroll, workers’ compensation is their top expense category.
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 5
Removing a stump with a stump grinder will create less damage to the terrain, simplifying the clean-up process.
Stump Grinders: An Incredible Asset for Tree Care Companies of All Sizes
By Anastasia Selby
Stump removal is a natural part of any arborist’s or landscaper’s work, but re- moving stumps can be an arduous and unpredictable practice. Jason Morey, marketing manager for Bandit Indus- tries, Inc. says, “In most circumstanc- es, a stump grinder is the best solution for stump removal. Removing a stump with a stump grinder will create less damage to the terrain, simplifying the clean-up process.” No matter the size of the stump, an in- tricate root system can create issues during any removal process. Remov- ing the entire stump can also create an ugly hole that can be difficult and expensive to fill in. Stump grinding, on the other hand, has much less impact on the land. In fact, the resulting stump debris can be used to fill in the area, along with soil and any type of seeding. This can save your customers money, lessen environmental impacts and free up time to pursue more business. While
there are situations where roots will push a small growth off of the remain- ing stump, the tree itself never grows back. These occasional growths can be easily eliminated by cutting them back as soon as possible. Because of the wide variety of stump grinders out there, buying one for your business can feel daunting. No one wants to casually invest thousands of dollars into a machine without tak- ing several factors into account. These can include the size of one’s business, machine capability, maintenance costs, and the ability to contract the work out or rent equipment as needed. Should you invest in a stump grinder? “Any company specializing in tree care should have a stump grinder in their fleet,” says Morey. “The need to remove stumps is always at a constant demand, and those companies that have the capabilities to offer this ser- vice will increase their profitability.”
Stump removal is a natural part of any arborist’s or landscaper’s work, but removing stumps can be an arduous and unpredictable practice. Photo courtesy of Morbark/Rayco.
Because of the wide variety of stump grinders out there, buying one for your business can feel daunting.
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 7
In most circumstances, a stump grinder is the best solution for stump removal. Removing a stump with a stump grinder will create less damage to the terrain, simplifying the clean-up process. Photo courtesy of Bandit Industries, Inc.
Whether you’re a solopreneur starting a business or the owner of a large-scale operation, you’ve likely considered whether or not to invest in a stump grinder (also known as a stump cut- ter). Outsourcing the use of a stump
“Industry research on the tree trim- ming service industry shows that stump grinding is still considered a niche. Those looking to set themselves apart from the competition could ben- efit from adding the service,” says
Kaitlyn Ingli, product marketing man- ager for The Toro Company. “Stump grinding equipment is typically less expensive than what’s needed for full tree removal. Since you’ll only be fo- cused on grinding the stump down
grinder can be problem- atic for mid-sized to large companies and unafford- able for small companies. Additionally, relying on outsourced labor leaves businesses vulnerable to someone else’s availabil- ity. Days of work and pay can be lost waiting for a contractor to become available. Any large busi- ness would want to elimi- nate this kind of financial vulnerability. Stump grinders come in varied sizes, from some-
and not worrying about the root system, the job itself will be quicker and more efficient, meaning you can fit more work into your day and make more money.” Mike Hernandez, a sales- person for Vermeer All Roads, elaborates: “Afford- ability is a part of it. Like anything else we have to- day, it’s not a cheap toy. There are some grinders out there that are over $100,000. Obviously, a new company starting out is investing in something
thing as small as a standard lawn mower to as large as a bulldozer. Larg- er companies that regularly take down big trees will need to size their stump grinders accordingly.
much cheaper that will be much smaller and much less effective than a larger stump grinder.” If you’re ready to invest in a stump grinder, you must consider your options
With so many to choose from, there's a stump grinder for every size of business. Photo courtesy of Toro.
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as far as size, capabilities and the needs of your company and customers are concerned. FOR SMALL BUSINESSES The less expensive and more trans- portable stump grinders are a perfect choice for solopreneurs and small businesses. Anyone can start a strong side hustle with their own stump grinder. The smaller machines are relative- ly easy to handle and have extensive safety features. Buying one “is a great way to be your own boss, spend time outside and make money at a pace you enjoy,” says Hernandez, who has no- ticed more nurses, teachers, retirees and firefighters using stump grinders to make extra money. Already have your own company? Hernandez suggests buying a mid- sized stump grinder instead. This allows you to partner with local tree
If you’re ready to invest in a stump grinder, you must consider your options as far as size, capabilities and the needs of your company and customers are concerned. Photo courtesy of Vermeer.
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care companies who may not want to purchase their own stump grinders. Mid-sized stump grinders have a larg- er spinning wheel, which means they can handle bigger stumps. But anoth- er advantage to mid-size machines is their speed. Smaller grinders take longer to process stumps, while a larg- er machine can cut your time in half. This is especially important if you are taking on multiple jobs or charging by the stump. Additionally, the smaller models won’t be able to tackle stumps larger than 20 inches. Luckily, as Hernandez points out, small-scale operations can develop relationships with local rental companies to provide a backup option for larger jobs if needed. FOR LARGE BUSINESSES Many large-scale tree companies can benefit from purchasing a stump grinder. “Doing a lot of crane work and maybe taking down 60-inch or 80-inch trees, a smaller stump grinder may work, but it will take them three days to do one stump,” says Lou Hicks, regional sales manager for Morbark, LLC, own- er of the Rayco brand. “If they buy a bigger machine, they could take out a huge stump in an hour. Using a small- er stump grinder means they aren’t working as efficiently.” This, he says, can translate into less financial gains in the long run. Owning a stump grinder can also ben- efit large companies “because they can include the cost of stump grind- ing in their bidding price,” says Her- nandez. Putting together a quote can involve several trips to the proposed work site, and “if you are waiting on a subcontractor to complete the work that you've got all of these resourc- es tied up in, that could be a week, a month. That's a lot of money to leave out on the line.” Machine ownership reduces the number of variables and guarantees availability, which can re- duce the amount of stress on a busi- ness owner.
The need to remove stumps is always at a constant demand, and those companies that have the capabilities to offer this service will increase their profitability. Photo courtesy of Bandit.
All three machine types require reg- ular maintenance. Hernandez encour- ages owners to thoughtfully train em- ployees to operate stump grinders and to perform regular maintenance tasks, such as replacing parts and topping off fluids. While these machines are capable of big jobs, they also require educated handling. “It doesn’t have to be intimidating or scary,” Hernandez says. “They are as safe as they possibly can be, with fea- tures such as operator-present switch- es to minimize user error.” Other things to consider when making a purchase are terrain, topography and typical stump size. A company based in rocky, hilly terrain with typically large stumps will require a much different ma- chine than one based in flat, sandy ter- rain with medium to small stump sizes. Maneuverability and ability to work on hillsides are also important factors to consider. An urban company would
WHICH STYLE IS BEST FOR YOUR BUSINESS? According to Ingli, "MAPS” is a sim- ple acronym that sums up the factors to consider when choosing the right stump grinder to meet your needs: • M aintenance required • A ccess to the site • P erformance restraints • S ize of the job Stump grinders are powered in one of three ways: direct drive, hydrostat- ic, and drive belt. Direct drive is the superior choice, according to Her- nandez, who encourages customers to “buy the most capable model that you can afford.” Hydrostatic machines can be more maneuverable, and drive belt-powered systems are perfect for smaller jobs as they require a more delicate operation and are more prone to belt breakage.
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 11
For such powerful machines, maintenance is fairly accessible for owners and operators. Each machine’s manual will list signs of wear and tear, instructions on how to replace fluids and manage lubrication, and identify parts that will need regular replacing. Photo courtesy of Vermeer.
likely prioritize maneuverability over size because of the need to navigate ob- stacles such as gates and stairs. A sub- urban or rural-based company, on the other hand, may not have to manage these factors and can therefore choose a larger, less maneuverable machine. IS MAINTENANCE EXPENSIVE? Purchasing from a local dealer is ideal. Vermeer, for instance, offers an asset protection program with a service plan that can be built into the full cost of the machine’s financing. Each service in- terval comes with a full inspection. For such powerful machines, mainte- nance is fairly accessible for owners and operators. Each machine’s manu- al will list signs of wear and tear, in- structions on how to replace fluids and manage lubrication, and identify parts that will need regular replacing. Cutter wheels differ depending on the model. Some models have a one-piece
tooth that needs to be wholly replaced when dull. Others have tooth-in-pocket systems that can be replaced individual- ly. Your local dealer can provide reference materials beyond the manual if needed. “You can definitely do your own main- tenance on a stump grinder,” says Hicks. “If you grease your bearings regularly, they’re going to last a lot longer. But if you don’t change your teeth when needed, which is also considered maintenance, then you’re beating up your machine, and things will fail and break.” Machines can last decades when they’re cared for prop- erly, which can save money and time in the long run.
Ingli agrees, “Compared to other equipment some tree care companies may use, stump grinders are an easy machine to maintain. But checking of- ten and regularly can keep your ma- chine running for a long time.” ABOUT THE AUTHOR Anastasia Selby is a former hotshot and wildland firefighter. Their nonfiction nar- rative book “HOTSHOT” is forthcoming from Grove Atlantic in early 2024. They graduated with a master’s of fine arts de- gree in creative writing, fiction, from Syr- acuse University in 2018 and are a Ph.D. candidate in creative writing (nonfiction) at Florida State University.
“Compared to other equipment some tree care companies may use, stump grinders are an easy machine to maintain. But checking often and regularly can keep your machine running for a long time.”
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In the dynamic and demanding field of arboriculture, building strong teams and effective leadership are crucial for success.
Building Strong Teams, Leadership and Empowering Individuals in the Arboriculture Industry
cca Seibel
In the dynamic and demanding field of arboriculture, building strong teams and effective leadership are crucial for success. Arborists work in challenging environments, oen dealing with hazardous situations and complex tasks. To navigate these challenges, it is essential to foster a culture of collaboration, empower in- dividuals and develop strong leader- ship skills.
goals (specific, measurable, achiev- able, relevant and time-bound) pro- vides clarity and direction, ensuring everyone is on the same page. PROMOTING TRUST AND RESPECT Building trust and fostering mutual re- spect among team members is crucial in the arboriculture industry. When individuals feel valued and support- ed, they are more likely to contribute their best efforts, ideas and problem solving. Encourage teamwork, rec- ognize achievements and create op- portunities for professional growth to instill a sense of trust and respect within the team. Trust enables collab- oration and innovation, while respect ensures a positive and inclusive work environment. DEVELOPING STRONG LEADERSHIP LEAD BY EXAMPLE Leaders play a pivotal role in setting the tone and culture within an arboricul- ture team. Leading by example involves
ESTABLISHING CLEAR GOALS AND ROLES Clearly defining team goals and in- dividual roles within your team is essential. When team members have a clear understanding of their respon- sibilities and the objectives they are working towards, they can align their efforts and work cohesively towards shared outcomes. Setting SMART
CREATING A CULTURE OF COLLABORATION
ENCOURAGING OPEN COMMUNICATION Effective communication is the cor- nerstone of a strong team. Encour- aging open dialogue, active listening and respect for diverse perspectives is vital. By fostering an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas and concerns, teams can better collaborate and prob- lem-solve together. A culture of open communication promotes transpar- ency, trust and synergy among team members.
a culture on, clear goals promoting pect, teams ether more ll photos he author.
Rebecca Seibel
Encouraging open dialogue, active listening and respect for diverse perspectives is vital.
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 15
demonstrating professionalism, integrity and a commitment to safety. When leaders exhibit these qualities consistently, it inspires others to follow suit and establishes a strong foundation for the team. Leading by example creates a positive leadership model that sets expectations and influences team behavior. EFFECTIVE DECISION-MAKING Leaders must make informed and timely decisions. Encour- age leaders to gather relevant information, consider different perspectives and involve the team in the decision-making process whenever possible. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and engagement among team members. Effective decision-making ensures the team operates smoothly and efficiently, and it empowers individuals by valuing their input and expertise. PROVIDING GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT Regularly communicating expectations, offering constructive feedback and providing opportunities for skill development are essential leadership practices. By investing in the growth of team members, leaders empower individuals to take on new challenges and improve their performance. Guidance and support create a nurturing environment that encourages personal and professional growth.
EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS RECOGNIZING AND LEVERAGING STRENGTHS
Each team member brings unique skills and strengths to the table. Recognizing and leveraging these enhances a team’s performance. Assigning tasks that align with their expertise and providing opportunities for growth and de- velopment in areas they wish to explore further maximiz- es their potential. Understanding and utilizing individual strengths creates a harmonious and high-performing team. ENCOURAGING CONTINUOUS LEARNING Arboriculture is a field that constantly evolves with new techniques, tools and safety protocols. Encouraging a cul- ture of continuous learning is crucial for staying ahead in this industry. Providing access to relevant training pro- grams, workshops and industry conferences empowers individuals to expand their knowledge, stay updated and bring innovative ideas to the team. Continuous learning fosters professional development and ensures the team re- mains at the forefront of industry advancements.
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16 | ArborTIMES Summer 2023 SALES | SERVICE | FINANCE | RENTAL | TRAINING | PARTS ALTEC.COM 888.958.2555 SALES@ALTEC.COM
PROMOTING AUTONOMY AND OWNERSHIP When individuals have a sense of ownership over their work, they become more motivated and ac- countable. Encourage independent thinking and problem-solving while providing guidance and support when needed. Promoting autonomy and ownership cultivates a sense of responsibility and initiative, driving individual growth and contributing to overall team success. Building strong teams, cultivating effective leadership and empowering individuals are key components of success in the arboriculture indus- try. By fostering a culture of collab- oration, establishing clear goals and roles and promoting trust and re- spect, teams can work together more cohesively. Additionally, leading by example, effective decision-making and providing guidance and support empowers leaders to inspire and mo- tivate their teams. Lastly, recognizing and leveraging individual strengths, encouraging continuous learning and promoting autonomy and ownership are essential for empowering individ- uals. By implementing these strate- gies, the arboriculture industry can thrive, while still ensuring safety, ef- ficiency and growth in this challeng- ing yet rewarding field. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rebecca Seibel is a motivated, pas- sionate and accomplished profession- al in the field of training and develop- ment, currently serving as the director of training and education at North American Training Solutions (NATS). Rebecca oversees the development and implementation of innovative training initiatives at NATS by collaborating closely with a team of skilled trainers to ensure the delivery of high-quali- ty programs that align with industry best practices and meet the evolving demands of clients. Rebecca's strong leadership skills and effective com- munication style inspire her team to excel and continuously exceed client expectations.
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 17
Product & Service Spotlight
ArborTIMES does not endorse or sponsor any product, service or activity. Reference to commercial products, services or brand names does not constitute an endorsement by ArborTIMES . ArborTIMES shall not be held liable for any claims or damages arising from the purchase of these products.
TRACKED LIFTS OMMELIFT 25.00 The new OMMELIFT 25.00 from Tracked Lis was built for chal- lenging terrain. Engineered with high-quality materials, heavy-duty construction and reinforced compo- nents, the OMMELIFT 25.00 ensures strength and stability. Stabilizers al- low the machine to be set up on un- even levels up to 40% (21.8°). Simple and intuitive controls make operator instruction easy and work quicker. The crawler chassis is designed to disperse the machine's weight, re- ducing ground pressure when oper- ating on sensitive surfaces or when the platform is craned into multi-sto- ry buildings where high reach is re- quired but low weight is a necessity. A dual parallelogram articulating riser gives 23 feet up-and-over free clearance and provides vertical wall tracking. Transit length is 22 feet, 7 inches but can be further reduced to 20 feet, 3 inches without the de- tachable basket. The width can be re- duced to just 25 feet. This tracked li features a working height of 82 feet and a side reach of 42 feet, offering versatility and efficiency, minimizing downtime and enabling operators to complete tasks faster and safer. www.trackedlifts.com
ACRT ARBORIST TRAINING CHAINSAW SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE HANDBOOK
WOMEN'S TREE CLIMBING WORK- SHOP TM TRAINING PROGRAMS Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop (WTCW) hosts a selection of three-day, immersive tree-climbing workshops in locations across the country, including Colorado, Minnesota, Massachusetts and Michigan. These workshops are designed to round out your arboricul- tural development and include pruning classes and safe chain saw operations. Room is still available in the Minne- sota and Michigan workshops, and scholarships are available for those who qualify. Additional one-day classes with WTCW include chain saw skills, climber aerial rescue, fundamentals of pruning and more. www.womenstreeclimbingworkshop.com
ACRT’s Arborist Training Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance Handbook provides training to improve safety, knowledge and experience. This 45- page handbook illustrates the safe use of chain saws, allowing the user to maximize the benefits of the tool while minimizing the risks. It includes information on chain saw hazards and protection, parts of a chain saw, chain saw maintenance and inspection, and chain saw operation. This handbook provides helpful insights for anyone who picks up a chain saw — whether it’s on the job or around the house. ArborTIMES subscribers can use promo code SAFETY23 at checkout to save 20%. www.acrt.com
Do you have any products or services that you’d like us to feature?
Please send us information, press releases and images to: editor@ArborTimes.org
18 | ArborTIMES Summer 2023
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How Can Companies Improve Employee Retention? By Isidro “Izzy” Galicia
“Few would be surprised to hear that poor pay is cited as the top reason for leaving a job...”
Regardless of their role, seniority or experience, employees will inevitably leave the companies they work for. It is a reality in the business world that can’t be ignored, but one that no company wants to see happen. Aer all, losing an employee means lost time, lost money and lost potential. To limit the impact of workers leaving their jobs, businesses must take steps to develop effective retention strategies that focus on identifying and addressing the factors that can trigger a worker’s departure. In some cases, the reasons that prompt a departure will be beyond a company’s control. More oen, howev- er, employees leave because they have
Isidro “Izzy” Galicia
will have less motivation to stay loyal to that company. Long hours and high performance demands tied for the sec- ond spot on the list, each being men- tioned as a concern by 20% of workers, while the fourth reason — cited by 13% of blue-collar workers — was a lack of opportunities for advancement. When asked about job satisfaction, blue-collar workers pointed to healthy compensation, which they described as
“a good living wage,” as a top factor. Few would be surprised to hear that poor pay is cited as the top reason for leaving a job, regardless of workers’ specific roles or industries. The poll also showed that 37% of workers are satisfied with their jobs because they are being challenged, and for 33%, job satisfaction stems from having a sense of purpose at work. Companies that wish to improve their employee retention rates should take
concerns that are not being addressed or needs that are not being met. A recent poll reveals a number of con- cerns that blue-collar workers have about their jobs. At the top of the list is personal safety, cited by 28% of work- ers. If workers do not feel that their company has taken steps to address dangerous working conditions, they
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note of the variety of factors that can inspire or detract from employee loy- alty. With these factors in mind, com- panies can build effective employee retention programs. The following principles can guide companies as they develop those programs.
Providing only generalities about job responsibilities will communicate the “what” but not the “why.” Most recruit- ing processes will explain the skills that an employee is expected to have, but a truly effective process will also commu- nicate the attitudes and perspectives that an employee will be expected to bring to the job. Clearly communicating your employ- ee value proposition is another step that will help in transitioning prospec- tive hires to loyal employees. It is not enough to communicate basic benefits. Those applying for jobs want to experi- ence a sense of purpose, be challenged to grow their skills and have opportuni- ties for advancement. Explaining what that looks like at your company will help applicants determine if they are willing to make a long-term commit- ment to your company. EFFECTIVE ONBOARDING DRAMATI- CALLY BOOSTS RETENTION During the recruitment process, com- panies should paint an enticing picture of the great employee experience they offer, as the onboarding process is the beginning of that experience. It is the first impression a new employee has of company culture, workplace dynamics and employee experience. If not done well, it can seriously damage a compa- ny's retention potential. Employees who find that a company’s onboarding does not match their expec- tations can rapidly lose trust in their company. To prevent this, companies should have a strong process that quick- ly orients new employees to all relevant policies and procedures, facilitates in- teraction with coworkers and invites feedback. Research reveals that compa- nies that have a strong onboarding pro- cess improve retention by 82%. EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING IS CRITICAL FOR STRONG RETENTION Employees in the tree care industry face a number of dangers, including falls, elec- trocution and equipment accidents. As a result, even the most experienced arbor-
ist can feel significant work-related stress on a regular basis. If employers don’t acknowledge and help with the manage- ment of that stress, it can lead to burnout and threaten employee retention. According to a 2021 Gallup poll, burn- out is something that 74% of employees experience. Gallup also found that em- ployees who have a high level of well-be- ing are remarkably resilient to burnout. As such, companies that want to boost retention must have programs that mit- igate burnout by promoting well-being. The programs should include assistance with managing stress and achieving a healthy work-life balance. EMPLOYEES STAY WHEN THEY FEEL VALUED Better employee retention is one of many benefits that companies will experience when they take steps to make employ- ees feel valued. There are a wide variety of steps that companies can take in this area, including providing competitive compensation, public recognition and awards, and career development op- portunities. As employees experience these, their dedication to the company increases. Involvement and empowerment are two key factors that communicate to employees that they are considered valuable by their company. Involve- ment relates to employees being “in the know” when it comes to the factors that are shaping the company’s future. When employees are invited to speak to the decision-making process, they feel a higher level of ownership. Empowerment relates to employees being “in the flow” when it comes to the success of the company. Empowered employees know that their performance directly af- fects the company’s success and, conse- quently, their success. They clearly under- stand the company’s strategy and the role they play in executing the strategy. The statistics that have been gathered on employee retention reveal two key truths that should drive companies to improve their efforts in this area. First,
STRONG RETENTION BEGINS WITH STRONG RECRUITING Retention is easier when you start by hiring the right person for the posi- tion. This requires a solid recruiting strategy that clearly aligns potential hires with the company’s vision, mis- sion, values and goals. Beginning with the job posting, companies must clearly communicate the full array of expectations.
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 21
Retention is easier when you start by hiring the right person for the position.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Isidro “Izzy” Galicia, president and CEO of Incito Consulting Group, has over 25 years of expertise in driving Lean and Six Sigma enterprise transformation for a wide range of Fortune 100 and 500 businesses and industries across the globe. He is highly regarded as a subject matter expert in Lean and Six Sigma Transformation, with decades of hands-on experience with the Toyota Production System. He is the recipient of the distinguished Shingo Prize, the National Association of Manufacturers Award and the JD Powers Gold Award. He is also a certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt.
employee retention can be improved. By providing employees with clear expectations, transparency, a healthy workplace and opportunities to con- tribute and grow, companies can build a team that is committed to long-term engagement.
The second truth is that employee re- tention should be improved. The costs associated with rapid and regular em- ployee turnover are high and avoidable. Companies that want to boost their productivity, profitability and morale must make a commitment to be better at retaining employees.
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DISTRIBUTED BY GENESIS TURF
By Matt Knu
Urban trees produce clean air and water, prevent stormwater runoff, and provide a cooler microclimate under their canopy. Photo courtesy of Pixabay.
24 | ArborTIMES Summer 2023
Many arborists and people in general understand the benefits that trees provide in forests and urban areas.
Exploring Urban Trees and Their Benefits to Wildlife
ull
Many arborists and people in general understand the benefits that trees pro- vide in forests and urban areas. They produce clean air and water, prevent stormwater runoff and provide a cooler microclimate under their canopy. It’s also easy for the public to understand that forests provide benefits for wildlife in the form of food, water and shelter. According to the Arbor Day Founda- tion, urban trees contribute $73 billion in community-wide environmental benefits each year. What’s not oen considered are the benefits trees provide to wildlife in urban forests or along the powerline right-of-way (ROW). A basic under- standing of which trees benefit native wildlife, such as insects and birds, is essential to create a fully functional and balanced urban forest. When discussing urban forests, I like to reference Arboriculture: Integrated Management of Landscape Trees, Shrubs, and Vines by Richard Wilson Harris, James R. Clark and Nelda P. Matheny. The authors describe urban forestry as the care and management of single trees and tree populations for
the purpose of improving the urban environment. An urban forest is a com- munity of trees and plants near houses or similar structures. The U.S. Forest Service also notes that urban forests come in different shapes and sizes, including urban parks, street trees, landscaped boulevards, gardens, river and coastal promenades, green- ways, river corridors, wetlands, nature preserves, shelter belts of trees and working trees at former industrial sites. RIGHT TREE, RIGHT PLACE As arborists, most of us have probably heard the phrase “The right tree in the right place.” This is the focus of many arborists and urban foresters – it takes a lot of skill and is usually a difficult task. It can be tempting to plant whatever tree fits the bill in a difficult spot. If a hardy tree will grow in that location, people tend to plant them without thinking about whether it’s native or non-native. A native tree is defined as growing in the forest naturally, some- thing that can germinate and grow into a mature tree. A non-native tree may or
may not grow naturally, and its origins come from an entirely different envi- ronment, usually on another continent. Before planting non-native trees, I like to encourage people to consider a na- tive alternative that can provide the same benefit as well as additional benefits that can slip under our ra- Central Park in NYC offers a wide variety of tree species that benefit native wildlife. Image by David Mark at Pixabay.
As arborists, most of us have probably heard the phrase “The right tree in the right place.”
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 25
When creating and/or fostering an ur- ban forest, the first objective should be to ensure a balance between the plants, trees and insects. The second step is to plant the right plant in the right place to ensure you benefit insects without creating a situation where they feed too much. If you find yourself wondering where to start, I usually recommend plant- ing more natives and/or replacing the non-natives when the opportunity presents itself. An urban forest that provides benefits to wildlife should be three-dimensional: You should have an overstory, an understory and a dense border of plants and shrubs.
When creating and/or fostering an urban forest, the first objective should be to ensure a balance between the plants, trees and insects.
dar. Think of tree and plant species that have evolved in the ecosystem, have coexisted with organisms and wildlife for millions of years and are well-adapted to the region in which they’re growing. Most people don’t want their plants to be eaten by insects, which is why people oen choose non-native plants. There’s less that feed on their plants –
or so they think. Turns out, there are a lot of insects that are brought over with these plants, which they need to be treated for. It’s not a huge advan- tage. Oen, the native insects don’t damage the plant beyond the home- owner’s acceptability of damage. If that’s the case, you’ll have a plant that looks good and performs all the func- tions the homeowner wants – all while benefiting wildlife.
Before planting non-native trees, I like to encourage people to consider a native alternative that can provide the same benefit as well as additional benefits that can slip under our radar. Think of tree and plant species that have evolved in the ecosystem, have coexisted with organisms and wildlife for millions of years and are well-adapted to the region in which they’re growing. Photo courtesy of ACRT.
26 | ArborTIMES Summer 2023
DEVELOPING A THREE-DIMENSION- AL URBAN FOREST To begin developing a three-dimension- al urban forest, consider planting any of the following species. Oak, Quercus spp. Oaks not only pro- duce mass for game and squirrels, but they also provide habitats for birds and flying squirrels. They also churn out caterpillars from May to October. Willow, Salix spp. These trees do well in poorly drained, wet areas and are a host to a species of the sphinx moth. But take caution: It’s not a great idea to plant this species next to valuable structures due to their weak and brittle build. Cherry and fruit, Prunus spp. The berries of the black cherry are edible and loved by birds, especially the cuck- oo, which also enjoys eating eastern tent caterpillars that cherry trees host. A native bird eating a native pest is an excellent benefit.
Oak tree. Photo by Msact at English Wikipedia
Willow tree. Photo by Lynn Greyling at PublicDomainPictures.net
Birch, Betula spp. Birch trees are an ex- cellent food source for wildlife. They have beautiful characteristics, such as their bark, which provides a habitat for wildlife to lay eggs and hide from predators.
Blueberry and azalea plants, Ericacia family. These are both good understory plants. They nourish many species with their fruit, but they also host hundreds of species of moths and
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Cherry tree. Photo by George Hodan at PublicDomainPictures.net
Birch tree. Photo by MirellaST at Pixabay.
Pine tree. Photo by David Stephens, Bugwood.org.
butterflies. Where available, I suggest planting native azaleas and native blueberries, even if it’s just because their fruit tastes good. Maple, Acer spp. Since the destruc- tion of chestnuts in the early- to mid- 1900s, the maple has expanded its role in the urban forest. There are midstory, understory and overstory trees that work well for each layer in the urban forest. The maple supports 285 species of moths and butterflies east of the Mississippi.
too close to them because their giant, syringe-like thorns will cause dam- age. That being said, these thorns help protect bird nests, as well as cat- erpillars and butterflies. Hazel alder, Alnus sp. This is a small tree native to the eastern U.S. It’s a hardy native that can grow in wet or dry conditions alike. It’s a good border tree that forms a multi- stem, shrub-like tree that is closely related to birch trees. They also share a lot of the same hosts, such as the banded tussock moth.
in the urban forest in the United States. The eastern white pine, for example, is a common choice in urban areas. It grows quickly, blocks wind and screens out neighbors – all while providing benefits to insects, wildlife and birds. Elm, Ulmus spp. Since the Dutch elm disease, many of these native elms are now gone. What we have le are elm trees that originated in Asia, like the Chinese elm and Siberian elm, which are popular in urban ar- eas. Resistant cultivars of American elms continue to become more avail- able, so they would be a good alterna- tive to the Siberian or Chinese elms. Hickory, Carya spp. These are great ornamental trees and have beautiful fall foliage. Hickories are excellent wildlife trees that produce more than 100 species of bird food in the form of moths and butterfly larvae. They also produce large nuts that sustain squir- rels and other mammals over the win- ter. A lot of people also harvest and eat these nuts. Hawthorn, Crataegus spp. There are a lot of plants in this genus and they hybridize regularly, so getting the exact species can be a nightmare. They make a great ornamental tree with beautiful flowers in the spring and berries in the fall. But don’t get
Pine, Pinus sp. There are many conifers
Elm tree. Photo by Joseph OBrien, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org
Maple tree. Photo by David Wagner at PublicDomainPictures.net
28 | ArborTIMES Summer 2023
ArborTIMES Summer 2023 | 29
Before planting non-native trees, consider a native alternative that can provide the same benefit.
ant role in providing insects as food for birds and such. These trees sup- port more than 150 species of cater- pillars in the eastern U.S., such as the checkered-fringe prominent. Hazelnut, Corylus spp. The hazel- nut is a plant that provides an under- story bush and produces a nut that is edible and sold for production. Best suited for sunny edges, many spe- cies of butterflies and moths develop on the leaves of this plant, like the white-marked tussock moth. Beech, Fagus sp. A lot of people are familiar with trees in the Fagus genus – those beech trees. They support more than 100 insect species in the moth and butterfly classification. A lot of wildlife eat beech nuts – including humans.
There are many other trees and plants out there that have benefits for wild- life. Whether you’re planting, advocat- ing for or simply educating yourself on urban trees, always remember to do your research to find effective species that will promote wildlife diversity and the insects they host. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Matthew Knull is an ISA Certified Ar- borist, a TCIA Certified Treecare Safe- ty Professional, and an arborist train- ing instructor with ACRT. He holds a Bachelor of Science in forestry and natural resources from the University of Georgia.
Beech tree. Photo by cocoparisienneat Pixabay.
Basswood and Linden, Tilia spp. These are an excellent source of pol- len and nectar for pollinators, and the seeds are a favorite among small mammals. They also play an import-
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