ARBORIST
Outlook
Although the U.S. Department of Labor does not maintain job statistics for arborists, jobs for those involved in the related professions of gardening and groundskeeping are expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through 2005 because many people will be retiring. Arborists, in particular, are expected to do well because of the increased construction of new homes and businesses that will require their services. Also, as more and more people come to appreciate the beauty and usefulness of trees, demand for arborists will continue to grow.
Yearly earnings for arborists range from about $12,500 to $25,000. Foremen supervising crews of arborists can earn as much as $35,000. Salaries are also affected by where arborists work. In warm areas, arborists can work year-round, so salaries are higher. In areas that suffer frequent natural disasters, such as hurricanes and storms, arborists can earn additional money. Much depends on whether an arborist is self-employed or works for a large tree-service firm. These firms usually provide such benefits as medical insurance and paid vacation time.
Did You Know?
Trees are essential to our health and well-being. Besides beautifying the landscape, they perform these key functions:
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Trees Provide Life-Giving Oxygen
People and animals need oxygen to breathe and stay alive. Trees give off oxygen as they absorb carbon dioxide. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), one acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen. That's enough to meet the annual oxygen needs of eighteen people! -
Trees Cool Temperatures and Lower Air-Conditioning Costs
Trees keep our environment cool and help cut down on energy use. The USDA estimates that the cooling effect of a young healthy tree is equivalent to ten room-size air conditioners operating twenty hours a day. The U.S. Forest Service says that the proper placement of trees around buildings can cut air-conditioning needs by 30 percent and save 20 to 50 percent in energy costs. -
Trees Help Prevent Erosion
Trees protect our valuable farmlands and woodlands, as well as our water supply, by preventing soil loss, or erosion. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the planting of trees means improved water quality because there is less erosion of lakesides and riverbanks and runoff of sediments and chemicals into our waterways. Less runoff also means more recharging of the groundwater supply. -
Trees Increase Property Values
Planting trees can improve a property's value. That means homeowners can sell their property for more money. Landscaping, especially with trees, can increase property values as much as 20 percent, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
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