What is your opinion of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)? | | Favorable | 55% | | Neutral | 25% | | Negative | 3% | | Not sure/never heard of them | 15% | | | | | Question: What is your opinion of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)? Top Answer (55% of 83 votes): Favorable.
Answer: Negative
Explanation: I am an ISA certified arborist, but do not see the value to tree owners. The certification gives me a small competitive advantage among arborists. | | Green Green Trees | Answer: Neutral
Explanation: While I remain neutral in terms of personal feelings toward the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), I do have some valid concerns based on direct observation and experience in the industry.
One of my key issues is that the ISA tends to emphasize formal certification processes and fee collection, often at the expense of recognizing true field experience and practical knowledge. I’ve seen highly capable, experienced arborists go unrecognized simply because they lack the formal ISA certification—despite having decades of hands-on work, safety training, and deep knowledge of tree biology and management.
On the other hand, I’ve also witnessed individuals receive ISA certification despite lacking the foundational experience and practical understanding necessary to operate competently in the field. This raises concerns about the consistency and depth of the evaluation process, and whether the credential truly reflects the skills required to be a reliable, knowledgeable arborist.
While the ISA does provide a standardized framework and promotes ongoing education—both of which are positive goals—it often falls short when it comes to validating the contributions and capabilities of long-time professionals in the field. In practice, it can sometimes feel more like a pay-to-play system rather than a balanced, merit-based organization. | | Quality Tree Inc. - Maryland | Answer: Favorable
Explanation: Well educated on trees | | M & S Tree Service | | | ProMatcher | Answer: Favorable
Explanation: We are members of ISA, we are listed in their publications and on their website. | | TORRISON TREE SERVICE | Answer: Favorable
Explanation: Knowledge is power that's why we're certified with skills to get the job completed | | Hernandez Tree Service | Answer: Favorable
Explanation: Member | | Desert Oasis Tree Service | | | ProMatcher | Answer: Neutral
Explanation: In Md being ISA certified does not make you legal to do tree work in this state. You must have a Md Tree Expert License. The exam for the MTE covers many of the same topics as the ISA. | | Tri- County Lawn & TreeService | Answer: Favorable
Explanation: Yes | | Busy Bee Tree And Lawn | Answer: Neutral
Explanation: they are ok | | ECT Contracting LLC | | | ProMatcher | Answer: Not sure/never heard of them
Explanation: No opinion | | Down To Dirt Stump Grinding |
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