Volume 58 issue four 2025 What's Inside 1
President’s Message
4
Trees and People: Life in Heartwood
7
The Last of Us: A Call to Action for Edmonton's Urban Forest
10
Tree Appraisal: The Four Primary Factors
17
Science: How Do We Know What We Know?
21
Cultivating Leadership: Kay Sicheneder, RCA #668
24
Book Reviews
27
Incoming/Outgoing Board Members
29
Host a TPAQ Course
30
2025 TPAQ Recipients
32
RCA Spotlight: Lew Bloch, RCA #297
38
Committee Reports
40
SEO Opportunity for ASCA Members
[The Arboricultural Consultant is a publication of the American Society of Consulting Arborists® 2023. All Rights Reserved. For more information, contact the ASCA headquarters office. Unless otherwise noted, all images are copyright ASCA and their respective owners. The ideas and opinions expressed in the Arboricultural Consultant are solely those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the view, positions or policies of ASCA, its members, its board of directors, officers or staff. ASCA is not responsible for any claims made in any advertisement, and does not endorse any vendor. ASCA does not warrant the performance of any member.]
As the end of 2025 nears, I’ve been reflecting on what this year has meant for ASCA and for all of us as consulting Ron Matranga, RCA #488 arborists. This ASCA President has been a year of steady progress, and thanks to the efforts of our members, committees, and Board, also a year where we’ve been able to catch our breath a little. That balance has allowed us to celebrate our accomplishments while preparing thoughtfully for the future. We have done work implementing the Brand Refresh, developed a Marketing Plan, increased Newsletter exposure, and grown the Academy, TPAQ, membership, and RCAs. We have elevated Ethics, kicked off the Diamond Project (60 year ASCA anniversary), and added to a great group of volunteers. I want to take a moment to acknowledge the many individuals who have dedicated their time and expertise this year, from those serving on committees and working groups, to those who stepped up to teach and share knowledge at the Consulting Academy, a TPAQ course, or the
Annual Conference, to the members who contributed articles and resources to help strengthen our profession. Your work has a ripple effect across the entire organization. Each of you, in your own way, has helped ASCA continue its role as the leader in consulting arboriculture. I want to take a moment to thank outgoing Board members Jeff Ling and Philip Van Wassenaer for their years of service and commitment to ASCA. Jeff’s calm and steady leadership has been invaluable. He has a way of grounding discussions, keeping us focused, and reminding us of the bigger picture when conversations drift into the weeds. His thoughtful approach has helped guide the Board through some challenging moments, always with grace and respect for every perspective at the table. Philip, on the other hand, has been our “Swiss Army knife,” stepping in wherever needed, contributing across a wide range of topics, and always doing so with excellence. He has a unique ability to bring forward a counterpoint or different perspective that enriches the dialogue and ensures we are not just nodding along but truly thinking through the issues. Together, Jeff and Philip have provided balance, insight, and a tremendous amount of energy. Their contributions have strengthened ASCA in ways that will last well Continued on Page 2
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