ISA Research Goals
"Through research, technology, and education, ISA will promote the professional practice of arboriculture and foster a greater worldwide
awareness of the benefits of trees.
This single sentence – a mission statement – serves as a foundation for all of ISA’s efforts within the industry and academy. Of the three
key undertakings outlined at the beginning of this statement, research is strategically place first. Why set this as a priority?
Ultimately research drives both technological advancement and educational development. Research validates our actions in the field,
elevating arboriculture from trade to profession. Research produces technologies and techniques that increase safety and efficiency while performing
tree care operations. Finally, research provides the knowledge needed to maintain healthy trees in an every-changing urban environment.
ISA is focused on scientific advancement and the dissemination of empirical findings as a means of contributing to a world with healthier trees,
sustainable communities, and a green economy. This focus is illustrated through ISA’s many efforts to identify and support the research objectives of
the scientific and professional communities:
- ISA hosts research summits and symposia that bring together leading experts from around the world. They events facilitate the exchange ideas,
identify research needs, and transfer the latest findings to practicing arborists.
- ISA contracts literature review projects to identify long term trends in sub-disciplines within arboriculture, while highlighting research
gaps which hinder industry growth.
- ISA produces the bi-monthly periodical, Arboriculture & Urban Forestry. This publication bears distinction as the oldest continuously
published peer-reviewed journal focused solely on issues related to urban tree care.
- ISA distills the most current scientific advancements and makes them accessible to practicing arborists. Our annual and regional
meetings, Arborist News magazine, and e-learning initiatives all serve as technology transfer outlets for ISA members and Certified Arborists.