EDITOR'S NOTE
Building a Smarter, Safer Year Ahead
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As we turn the page on another year in tree care, winter offers a natural pause — a moment to take stock of what worked, what did not, and where we want to go next. For many in our industry, this season marks the start of a new cycle of planning, training, and resetting priorities. It is a time to in- vest in ourselves, our teams, and the tools that help us work smarter and safer, especially as demands on the profession continue to evolve.
On the cover: Tree workers using bucket trucks to clear up broken limbs and debris after a winter storm, prior to line workers attempting to restore electricity. Source: Altec
Amy Kent, Editor
ISSUE 14, WINTER 2026
In this issue, we highlight the importance of beginning the year with intention. That starts with education — both in the classroom and on the job. We look at the pests, diseases, and emerging arbor threats to watch for in 2026, arming you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions before the busy season arrives. You will also find guidance on building a rigging kit without breaking the bank, a timely reminder that working safely and efficiently does not have to come with an overwhelming price tag. Winter is the ideal time to evaluate equipment and explore new tools that support better workflow. Our feature on apps that help optimize efficiency with estimates offers practical insights into technology that can streamline one of the most time-consuming aspects of daily operations. Whether you are refining bidding processes, coordinating crews, or improving com- munication with clients, the right digital tools can transform the way you work and free up valuable time and resources that can be reinvested in training, gear, and long-term planning. We are also looking ahead to one of the most energizing moments of the year: the return of ArborEXPO™ and the Arbor Awards™ this March. These events bring together professionals across the industry for hands-on learning, networking, rec- ognition, and innovation — an opportunity to recharge, reconnect, and gather ideas that will carry you through the seasons ahead while strengthening community ties. As the winter chill settles in, we hope the articles in this issue inspire you to start the year with clarity, confidence, and renewed commitment to safety, education, and operational excellence. Here’s to a productive, well-prepared, and resilient year for tree care professionals everywhere.
PUBLISHER Sachin Mohan: mohan@arbortimes.org EDITOR Amy Kent: editor@arbortimes.org ASSOCIATE EDITOR Mara Watts: mara@arbortimes.org ART/TECH DIRECTOR Richard May: info@arbortimes.org SAFETY AND TRAINING ADVISORS Jared Abrojena Bob Lehman Korey Conry Ken Palmer Robert Phillips Aaron Dickinson 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 or is public domain.
Stay grounded,
Amy Kent
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ArborTIMES ™ Winter 2026 | 3
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