City Trees

I have always loved outdoor activities and spending time in the forest. As an Eagle Scout, I enjoyed count- less camping and backpacking trips, whitewater rafting, hiking, fishing, and summer camps. I quickly realized that spending time outdoors and protecting the natural world were important components of any future job. Throughout my time acquiring my B.S. in Forestry from Michigan Technological University, I gained an even greater appreciation for trees and forest eco- systems. Two particularly memorable classes that I believe placed me on my current path were the elec- tives Urban Forestry and Introduction to Arboriculture. I have been the City of Hillsdale, Michigan City Forester since June 1 st , 2023. My job involves a mix of urban forestry and utility forestry, as the city has a munici- pally-owned utilities distributor, the Hillsdale Board of Public Utilities. Some days I might be out evaluating city trees, performing risk assessments and planning tree work, while others I could be soliciting bids for vege- tation management (tree trimming or removal) along transmission lines. When office work and planning slows down, I can even be found trimming city trees myself in a bucket truck. The variety of tasks in my role—as well as being able to immediately see the impact of my work in the urban forest—is immensely rewarding. I joined the UCFS because I want to be able to learn from and network with a group of fellow professionals, sharing ideas and working together to create sustainable urban forests. I am the only forestry professional at the City of Hillsdale, and as a recent college graduate, I want to be able to learn all I can from people in similar positions. Several UCFS objectives spoke to me: public educa- tion is invaluable when it comes to community support for urban forestry, and the Society's commitment to scientific investigation of municipal forestry prob- lems will assist me in finding solutions to arboriculture problems in my local area. In addition, I look forward to receiving input from UCFS members when pests and diseases afflict city trees or when logistical issues arise. Discussing what does and does not work well with professionals who have years of experience will be important to me as I work to consistently improve and maintain the urban forest in the City of Hillsdale. I look for ward to receiving input from UCFS members when pests and diseases aff lict city trees or when logistical issues arise. 22 CityTREES Kaleb doing tree work at the City cemetery. The Future of UCFS Kaleb Dorweiler

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