General Sessions

Old and Majestic Trees
Brian Kelley – Gathering Growth Foundation, Barryville, NY
Brian Kelley, founder of the Gathering Growth Foundation, will share his journey from New York City photographer to van-based explorer documenting Champion Trees across the United States. From cemeteries to remote mountaintops, Kelley has captured some of the nation’s oldest and largest trees, preserving their stories through his lens.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

Being a True Professional
Mark Chisholm – Aspen Tree Expert Co., Jackson, NJ
Growing up in the tree care industry has given Mark a unique understanding as to where the industry was, where it is and where it is going. This talk will be a fun walk down memory lane where Mark shares pictures, videos and insights about what it takes to be a true professional and how to make sure you are representing yourself and our profession in the best possible light

Breakout Sessions

A-1. From Rookies to Rockstars: A Pay & Promotion Model That Works
Ryan Watkins – HortMentor, Johns Island, SC
Set your new hires up for success with a clear, step-by-step certification and compensation program. This interactive session will help you build a custom roadmap that shows employees exactly what it takes to grow, earn raises, and advance within your company. By aligning training with pay progression, you’ll create a culture of motivation, retention, and long-term success. Show your team the vision, invest in their development, and watch both their performance—and your profits—soar!
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)

A-2. Dealing with Difficult Tree Removals
Mark Chisholm – Aspen Tree Expert Co., Jackson, NJ
This presentation will dig into one of the most difficult yet exciting disciplines in tree care- rigging! Mark will share techniques that he has developed over a lifetime of field work and explain some strategies he employs to deal with complex scenarios.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, T, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

A-3. (C-3 Repeat) Drones: A New Tool in the Fight Against Pests
Fred Whitford – Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
This presentation will describe the current state of drone technology for making liquid pesticide applications. Our goal will be to inform and provide the current best management practices to those interested in using drones for applying pesticides.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, Bp; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

A-4. (B-4 Repeat) White Hat Hacking the TRAQ Methodology
James Komen – Class One Arboriculture, Inc., Glendale, CA
An advanced look at TRAQ risk assessments, with a focus on ethical considerations. This presentation demonstrates several ways that the outcome of a risk assessment can become distorted either accidentally or intentionally: separating targets, separating tree parts, and changing time frame. The goal is to help readers of risk assessment reports and users of this methodology to look at risk assessments with a critical eye.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, T, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

A-5. (D-5 Repeat) Diagnosing Health Problems of Woody Plants* (2 hours) – Limit 30 per session
Zach Schumm and Ed Zaworski – Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Mark Vitosh – Iowa DNR Wildlife Bureau, Iowa City, IA
Participants will become familiar with the diagnostic process when looking at woody plant problems caused by insects, plant pathogens, and some abiotic factors during this 2-hour hands-on workshop. At 15 stations positioned around the room participants will learn the differences between signs and symptoms, examine and diagnose current plant health issues, and learn management recommendations for the selected plant health issues. Seating is limited, so sign up early for this one!
2 ISA CEUs, Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (2.0 HSW)

A-6. (E-6 Repeat) Don’t Brood…Instead, Prepare for the Next Cicada Invasion*
Guy Sternberg – Starhill Forest Arboretum of Illinois College, Petersburg, IL
Iowa will experience broods of periodical cicadas in 2031 (Brood III) and then again in 2032 (Brood IV), with more to follow in various parts of the State. In 2024, Starhill Forest experienced the worst multi-brood Cicada attack ever to occur in synchrony on the same land in unison, ever, anywhere, in human history. We had 100 million cicadas on 50 acres, and destruction was worse than ever seen anywhere before in this narrow strip of overlapping broods. Learn what we learned and be prepared well in advance if you grow trees, sell trees, manage trees, love trees, or have any relationship with this phenomenon. Be as ready as you can be because ideally you should start preparing as early as 2026 and 2027.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

A-7. Advanced Project Planning (2 hours)
Jeremy Martin – Willow Gates Home & Landscape, Mohnton, PA
Hardscaping has grown far beyond simple patios and walls, and today’s projects are growing ever more complex.  This presentation will include tips for site visits as well as planning for utilities, large retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, stormwater management, pools, and integrated structures such as decks, roofs, & pavilions. SOPs will be shared that Willow Gates Landscaping uses to plan for projects ranging from $50K-1M+.  This course is relevant for contractors with revenue ranging from $400K-5M.
No ISA CEU; LA CES (2.0 HSW)

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B-1. How a Quick Sketch Can Double Your Sale
Ryan Watkins – HortMentor, Johns Island, SC
A simple hand-drawn sketch can be a game-changer in closing sales. This easy-to-use tool helps clients visualize their space, understand your recommendations, and confidently move forward with their purchase. Whether you’re a garden retailer or landscape professional, integrating quick sketches into your sales process can boost buyer confidence, streamline decision-making, and increase sales. Learn how to use this technique effectively, match your vision with the client’s expectations, and turn ideas into revenue.
No ISA CEU; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)

B-2. Gathering Growth
Brian Kelley – Gathering Growth Foundation, Barryville, NY
For the past six years, the Gathering Growth Foundation has been on a journey to uncover New York State’s oldest and largest trees. From a towering, world-record Eastern White Pine to a gnarled Yellow Birch that has weathered more than four centuries, each tree carries a story of survival and wonder. Get an early glimpse into these hidden giants in the forthcoming book.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

B-3. (F-7 Repeat) Rehabilitating Drought-Stressed Trees
Emmett Muennink – Arborjet, The Colony, TX
Learn the impact of severe drought on trees, identify symptoms, and delve into prevention, management, and recovery tactics for a the most valuable plants in the landscape. We will cover various products and application techniques to consider when treating drought-stricken trees.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

B-4. (A-4Repeat) White Hat Hacking the TRAQ Methodology
James Komen – Class One Arboriculture, Inc., Glendale, CA
An advanced look at TRAQ risk assessments, with a focus on ethical considerations. This presentation demonstrates several ways that the outcome of a risk assessment can become distorted either accidentally or intentionally: separating targets, separating tree parts, and changing time frame. The goal is to help readers of risk assessment reports and users of this methodology to look at risk assessments with a critical eye.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, T, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

B-6. (F-6 Repeat) Turfgrass Management Update**
Adam Thoms – Iowa State University, Ames, IA
This past year has pushed turfgrass managers through a challenging weather year, we will cover issues that hit turfgrass stands in the state from environmental to pest. The latest pest management strategies will be discussed as well as a review of proper cultural practices on turfgrass. This along with required topics is needed for continuing education for pesticide applicator training.
No ISA CEU; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

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C-1. Quick Sketching Level 1
Ryan Watkins – HortMentor, Johns Island, SC
Learn the methods and tools to draw quick sketches for your clients.  Whether in the garden center or landscaping environment, these practical tips will help you create clear sketches faster and better to help you sell more plants.  Bring paper and a pencil!  You can attend this session by itself, but it also builds on ideas presented in “How A Quick Sketch Can Double Your Sale.”
No ISA CEU; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)

C-2. Longevity as an Arborist
Mark Chisholm – Aspen Tree Expert Co., Jackson, NJ
Being an arborist for your whole career can take its toll on your mind and body. Learn tools and techniques that will enable you to both stay engaged and functionally fit to perform over the long haul at the highest level possible.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, T, M, Bp; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)

C-3. Drones: A New Tool in the Fight Against Pests
Fred Whitford – Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
This presentation will describe the current state of drone technology for making liquid pesticide applications. Our goal will be to inform and provide the current best management practices to those interested in using drones for applying pesticides.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, Bp; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

C-4. (D-4 Repeat) Introduction to Utility Vegetation Management
Liz Westberg – Growth Solutions, Minnetonka, MN
Ever wonder what in the world was going through the mind of the utility arborist that gave the ‘ol power line special to your favorite tree? This presentation will cover some of the considerations, motivations, and challenges faced by utility arborists, as well as some of the modern best practices within this industry that faces an ever changing world of wildfires, storms, and a growing demand for electricity. Use this information to better understand utility pruning, or even explore possible careers in the field.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, U, Bp; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

C-5. (D-1 Repeat) Tree-dership: What trees can teach us about leadership and navigating challenges in work and life
Amanda Snodgrass – Iowa City, IA
We all face challenges like navigating interpersonal relationships, balancing obligations, managing stress, and dealing with circumstances outside our control. In this workshop we will learn about traits and adaptations of the trees around us and how they can inspire how we adapt and cope with challenges that arise in our own lives. Letting trees be our guides, from our backyard favorites to the trees in the islands of the Walmart parking lot, we will not only learn a fun new fact or two, but how to build bridges with the world, the people, and the challenges around us.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

C-6. (D-6 Repeat) TreesLouisville’s Collaborations to Increase Canopy Coverage
Morgan Grubbs – TreesLouisville, Louisville, KY
Non-profits have a unique way to accomplish goals with their ability to partner, collaborate, and move through red tape. TreesLouisville is self-identified as an opportunistic organism willing to take on any and all planting opportunities and create influence within Louisville KY. Learn how our organization operates allowing us to plant on public and private land, maintain our trees for the first 10 years, and create educational opportunities for the public. In addition, we will look at how we are working to combat urbanization and introduce scientific approaches when selecting species and designing treescapes.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bp; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

C-7. (G-7 Repeat) Continuing Instruction Course for Pesticide Applicators**
Evan Alderman – Iowa State University, Ames, IA
This workshop will be a part of the continuing instruction course (CIC) for pesticide applicators looking for recertification in 2026. This required session will present information on personal protective equipment and safe handling, professionalism, and storage of pesticides, including chemical security.  This Continuing Instruction Course will be approved by The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship for categories 2, 3O, and 3OT. You will be required to attend other qualifying sessions to receive recertification credit at the Shade Tree Short Course.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); No LA CES CEU

C-8. (E-4 Repeat) Data-Driven Decision-Making with Smart Tree Inventories
Jim Zwack – The Davey Tree Expert Company, Kent, OH
Tree inventories have advanced from pen-and-paper to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). By combining these tools, we can shift from a snapshot updated once a decade to a 3D digital twin updated every two years. As climate change accelerates beyond trees’ natural adaptation rates, our assessment and monitoring methods must keep pace. This presentation introduces smart tree inventories, reviews current AI technologies in urban forestry, and demonstrates methods, outcomes, and future potential. Attendees will see how smart inventories enhance management for tree equity, risk reduction, and urban heat island mitigation, ensuring healthier, more resilient urban forests.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

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D-1. (Repeat D-5) Tree-dership: What trees can teach us about leadership and navigating challenges in work and life
Amanda Snodgrass – Iowa City, IA
We all face challenges like navigating interpersonal relationships, balancing obligations, managing stress, and dealing with circumstances outside our control. In this workshop we will learn about traits and adaptations of the trees around us and how they can inspire how we adapt and cope with challenges that arise in our own lives. Letting trees be our guides, from our backyard favorites to the trees in the islands of the Walmart parking lot, we will not only learn a fun new fact or two, but how to build bridges with the world, the people, and the challenges around us.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

D-2. Prescription Pruning Qualification (2 hours)
Edward F. Gilman – Wood Architecture Inc.; University of Florida, Jacksonville, FL
Establishing and maintaining urban-compatible tree architecture promotes clearance when trees are young, prevents the need for costly remediation later, and preserves tree. The new paradigm shifts the decision of which branches to prune from the production arborist to an informed prescriber. It establishes a protocol resulting in consistency between the arborist preparing a pruning prescription and the production arborist. This credential teaches you how to prescribe and perform pruning in accordance with industry standards and ISA’s BMP supported by the latest research and experience. We introduce a 15 CEU qualification that will make you a better arborist.
2 ISA CEUs, Categories: A, T, M, Bm(1), Bs(1); LA CES (2.0 HSW)

D-3. (E-3 Repeat) Expect Poor Pesticide Performance When You Forget the Basics*
Fred Whitford – Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
The often-used adage, “read and follow label instructions,” has new meaning. While often looking at the BIG picture in spray technology, we now realize that the subtleties of measuring the product or carrier is often neglected and may be the difference between application success and failure. A long-used measuring cup, trusting marks on tanks, failure to differentiate between liquid vs. dry ounces, and using incorrect or inaccurate measuring devices potentially lessens control of the target pest. The purpose of this talk is to urge you to investigate, and correct, if necessary, this often overlooked first step in the pesticide application process.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); No LA CES CEU

D-4. (Repeat C-4) Introduction to Utility Vegetation Management
Liz Westberg – Growth Solutions, Minnetonka, MN
Ever wonder what in the world was going through the mind of the utility arborist that gave the ‘ol power line special to your favorite tree? This presentation will cover some of the considerations, motivations, and challenges faced by utility arborists, as well as some of the modern best practices within this industry that faces an ever changing world of wildfires, storms, and a growing demand for electricity. Use this information to better understand utility pruning, or even explore possible careers in the field.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, U, Bp; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

D-5. (Repeat A-5) Diagnosing Health Problems of Woody Plants* (2 hours) – Limit 30 per session
Zach Schumm and Ed Zaworski – Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Mark Vitosh – Iowa DNR Wildlife Bureau, Iowa City, IA
Participants will become familiar with the diagnostic process when looking at woody plant problems caused by insects, plant pathogens, and some abiotic factors during this 2-hour hands-on workshop. At 15 stations positioned around the room participants will learn the differences between signs and symptoms, examine and diagnose current plant health issues, and learn management recommendations for the selected plant health issues. Seating is limited, so sign up early for this one!
2 ISA CEUs, Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (2.0 HSW)

D-6. (Repeat C-6)  TreesLouisville’s Collaborations to Increase Canopy Coverage
Morgan Grubbs – TreesLouisville, Louisville, KY
Non-profits have a unique way to accomplish goals with their ability to partner, collaborate, and move through red tape. TreesLouisville is self-identified as an opportunistic organism willing to take on any and all planting opportunities and create influence within Louisville KY. Learn how our organization operates allowing us to plant on public and private land, maintain our trees for the first 10 years, and create educational opportunities for the public. In addition, we will look at how we are working to combat urbanization and introduce scientific approaches when selecting species and designing treescapes.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bp; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

D-7. Basic Estimating
Jeremy Martin – Willow Gates Home & Landscape, Mohnton, PA
This presentation is an introduction to the Multiple Overhead Recovery System pioneered by Vander Kooi, and can be used with or without the aid of estimating software. It will aid contractors in answering two basic questions: How long will it take me to complete the project, and how much should I charge? This course is relevant for contractors with revenue ranging from $100K to $5M.
No ISA CEU; No LA CES CEU

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E-1. New Plants That Solve Landscape Challenges
Jane Beggs-Joles – Spring Meadow Nursery, Grand Haven, MI
Designing landscapes that will thrive in the harsh Midwest climate requires plants that will tolerate weather extremes, wildlife pressure, and less-than-ideal soil. They have to look good, too, and not just for a week or two in spring. This presentation will discuss newer selections of flowering shrubs that provide reliable solutions to challenges like cold weather, water stress, wind, and deer browse. It will also cover best practices for maintaining these plantings, and identify some subjects that should be addressed with the client before beginning a project.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bp; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

E-3.(Repeat D-3) Expect Poor Pesticide Performance When You Forget the Basics*
Fred Whitford – Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN
The often-used adage, “read and follow label instructions,” has new meaning. While often looking at the BIG picture in spray technology, we now realize that the subtleties of measuring the product or carrier is often neglected and may be the difference between application success and failure. A long-used measuring cup, trusting marks on tanks, failure to differentiate between liquid vs. dry ounces, and using incorrect or inaccurate measuring devices potentially lessens control of the target pest. The purpose of this talk is to urge you to investigate, and correct, if necessary, this often overlooked first step in the pesticide application process.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); No LA CES CEU

E-4. (Repeat C-8)  Data-Driven Decision-Making with Smart Tree Inventories
Jim Zwack – The Davey Tree Expert Company, Kent, OH
Tree inventories have advanced from pen-and-paper to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). By combining these tools, we can shift from a snapshot updated once a decade to a 3D digital twin updated every two years. As climate change accelerates beyond trees’ natural adaptation rates, our assessment and monitoring methods must keep pace. This presentation introduces smart tree inventories, reviews current AI technologies in urban forestry, and demonstrates methods, outcomes, and future potential. Attendees will see how smart inventories enhance management for tree equity, risk reduction, and urban heat island mitigation, ensuring healthier, more resilient urban forests.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

E-6. (Repeat A-6)  Don’t Brood…Instead, Prepare for the Next Cicada Invasion*
Guy Sternberg – Starhill Forest Arboretum of Illinois College, Petersburg, IL
Iowa will experience broods of periodical cicadas in 2031 (Brood III) and then again in 2032 (Brood IV), with more to follow in various parts of the State. In 2024, Starhill Forest experienced the worst multi-brood Cicada attack ever to occur in synchrony on the same land in unison, ever, anywhere, in human history. We had 100 million cicadas on 50 acres, and destruction was worse than ever seen anywhere before in this narrow strip of overlapping broods. Learn what we learned and be prepared well in advance if you grow trees, sell trees, manage trees, love trees, or have any relationship with this phenomenon. Be as ready as you can be because ideally you should start preparing as early as 2026 and 2027.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

E-7. Sales From the Heart
Jeremy Martin – Willow Gates Home & Landscape, Mohnton, PA
Sales is the lifeblood of every business, yet is often misunderstood. This presentation will challenge you to reconsider what your client is truly purchasing from your company! Learn to shift your focus from your own qualifications to asking questions that connect with your prospect. Jeremy will share lessons learned from a time of great personal loss, and how those lessons shaped his sales process. As a landscape and outdoor living designer, he takes you into his own backyard and how he experienced in a very personal way the answer to “why do people hire us?”
No ISA CEU; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)

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F-1. The New Z133 Safety Standards: Words to Live By
John Ball – South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD
Arboriculture is one of the highest risk professions in the United States.  The fatal injury rate is a shocking 30 times higher than the All Industry Average. The serious nonfatal injury rate is equally depressing.  But we do not have to accept these injuries as just part of the job.  The new Z133 Safety Standards for Arboricultural Operation can help us safely navigate the hazards of our work.  This session will cover the key changes in the Z133-2025 and the incidents that they should prevent if followed.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, T, Bp; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

F-2. (G-6 Repeat) How We Grow Trees at Bentley Ridge
Dylan Rolfes – Bentley Ridge Tree Farm, Grimes, IA
This workshop will cover the processes involved in taking a tree from a bareroot liner to a high-quality 25-gallon containerized tree, as it is performed at Bentley Ridge Tree Farm and Nursery. We will discuss lessons learned through our success and our failures throughout the years, as well as our ongoing experimentation on the best operating procedures for growing different types of trees.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

F-3. (G-3 Repeat) Aggressive Homeowners: Training for a Mindset of De-Escalation
Liz Westberg – Growth Solutions, Minnetonka, MN
Interacting with aggressive or hostile homeowners has long been an issue for utility tree workers, but is becoming more common in other spheres of tree care as well. This discussion will walk through both common and rare hostile encounters with homeowners, occupants, and general members of the public, best practices for de-escalation and leaving that situation in a safe manner, and ways in which utilities and tree companies can provide support to front line workers.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, U, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

F-4. (G-4 Repeat) Is Your Tree Protection Ordinance Constitutional (do we put a ?)
James Komen – Class One Arboriculture, Inc., Glendale, CA
In modern times, tree protection laws and ordinances of all different kinds are found in many jurisdictions. But if a law or ordinance conflicts with the fundamental rules of a state or federal constitution, then the law is invalid to the extent of conflict. This presentation discusses a sampling of the constitutional challenges that have tested various tree protection laws in the U.S. courts, both successfully and unsuccessfully. Topics include takings, substantive and procedural due process, equal protection, excessive fines, search and seizure, and even freedom of speech rights.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

F-5. (G-5 Repeat) Squirrels Don’t Build Dams and Other Leadership Lessons from Nature
Chris Lee – Burlington, IA
In this engaging breakout session, participants will explore how the principles of nature offer insights into leadership and team dynamics. Using analogies from the natural world such as squirrels, trees, and water, the workshop will highlight the importance of cultivating individual strengths, creating environments where teams thrive, and embracing adaptability. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to lead with authenticity, foster resilience, and align their teams’ efforts with shared energy and purpose.
1 ISA CEU, Category: M; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)

F-6. (Repeat B-6) Turfgrass Management Update**
Adam Thoms – Iowa State University, Ames, IA
This past year has pushed turfgrass managers through a challenging weather year, we will cover issues that hit turfgrass stands in the state from environmental to pest. The latest pest management strategies will be discussed as well as a review of proper cultural practices on turfgrass. This along with required topics is needed for continuing education for pesticide applicator training.
No ISA CEU; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

F.7. (Repeat B-3) Rehabilitating Drought-Stressed Trees
Emmett Muennink – Arborjet, The Colony, TX
Learn the impact of severe drought on trees, identify symptoms, and delve into prevention, management, and recovery tactics for a the most valuable plants in the landscape. We will cover various products and application techniques to consider when treating drought-stricken trees.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

F-8. Stuck on Scales: How to Spot and Stop Them*
Laura Iles – Iowa State University, Ames, IA
Attendees will learn to spot common scale insect pests, which trees they affect, and learn chemical and non-chemical management practices. We will cover proper timing and selection of insecticides for different types of scale insects, as well as discuss potential non-target impacts.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); LA CES (1.0 HSW)

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G-1. Overview of Ornamental Plant Breeding
Jane Beggs-Joles – Spring Meadow Nursery, Grand Haven, MI
Every year brings a new crop of plant introductions to ornamental horticulture. Why so many? Are they really different? Are they really better? Do we truly need all of these options? We’ll take a look at how and why new plants are bred and introduced to the industry. The presentation will include a review of basic plant breeding terms, a look at what technology is and isn’t used for ornamental plant breeding, and a roadmap for evaluation and introduction of new flowering shrubs.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

G-2. Sex and the Street Tree
John Ball – South Dakota State University, Brookings SD
We all love street trees. But their fruit – not so much.  This has driven the popularity of seedless cultivars. But too often we are disappointed in seedless cultivars that do produce fruit and seeds.  This session will cover the sex life of trees, the different way cultivars become seedless – and most important why some seedless trees suddenly begin to produce fruit and seeds.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

G-3. (Repeat F-3) Aggressive Homeowners: Training for a Mindset of De-Escalation
Liz Westberg – Growth Solutions, Minnetonka, MN
Interacting with aggressive or hostile homeowners has long been an issue for utility tree workers, but is becoming more common in other spheres of tree care as well. This discussion will walk through both common and rare hostile encounters with homeowners, occupants, and general members of the public, best practices for de-escalation and leaving that situation in a safe manner, and ways in which utilities and tree companies can provide support to front line workers.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, U, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

G-4. (Repeat F-4) Is Your Tree Protection Ordinance Constitutional
James Komen – Class One Arboriculture, Inc., Glendale, CA
In modern times, tree protection laws and ordinances of all different kinds are found in many jurisdictions. But if a law or ordinance conflicts with the fundamental rules of a state or federal constitution, then the law is invalid to the extent of conflict. This presentation discusses a sampling of the constitutional challenges that have tested various tree protection laws in the U.S. courts, both successfully and unsuccessfully. Topics include takings, substantive and procedural due process, equal protection, excessive fines, search and seizure, and even freedom of speech rights.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bm; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

G-5. (Repeat F-5) Squirrels Don’t Build Dams and Other Leadership Lessons from Nature
Chris Lee – Burlington, IA
In this engaging breakout session, participants will explore how the principles of nature offer insights into leadership and team dynamics. Using analogies from the natural world such as squirrels, trees, and water, the workshop will highlight the importance of cultivating individual strengths, creating environments where teams thrive, and embracing adaptability. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to lead with authenticity, foster resilience, and align their teams’ efforts with shared energy and purpose.
1 ISA CEU, Category: M; LA CES (1.0 Non-HSW)

G-6. (Repeat F-2) How We Grow Trees at Bentley Ridge
Dylan Rolfes – Bentley Ridge Tree Farm, Grimes, IA
This workshop will cover the processes involved in taking a tree from a bareroot liner to a high-quality 25-gallon containerized tree, as it is performed at Bentley Ridge Tree Farm and Nursery. We will discuss lessons learned through our success and our failures throughout the years, as well as our ongoing experimentation on the best operating procedures for growing different types of trees.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, M, Bs; LA CES (1.0 HSW)

G-7. (Repeat C-7) Continuing Instruction Course for Pesticide Applicators**
Evan Alderman – Iowa State University, Ames, IA
This workshop will be a part of the continuing instruction course (CIC) for pesticide applicators looking for recertification in 2026. This required session will present information on personal protective equipment and safe handling, professionalism, and storage of pesticides, including chemical security.  This Continuing Instruction Course will be approved by The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship for categories 2, 3O, and 3OT. You will be required to attend other qualifying sessions to receive recertification credit at the Shade Tree Short Course.
1 ISA CEU, Categories: A, Bp(0.5), Bs(0.5); No LA CES CEU