2026 Tree Stewards Class
October 14 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm CDT
Investigate and learn about our urban forest in this six-week course at Memphis Botanic Garden. Instruction and outdoor learning will cover tree anatomy and physiology, the history of urban forestry, environmental factors affecting trees, tree species identification, tree planting and care, tree selection, tree pruning, tree problems and diagnosis, invasive species in Tennessee, how trees support wildlife, and tree law for homeowners. Classes are designed for the public, municipal employees, plant-related non-profits, arboretums, members of neighborhood associations, tree boards, garden clubs, and plant societies.
INSTRUCTORS
Dr. Eric Bridges – CF, Director of Operations & Capital Improvements: Overton Park Conservancy
Wes Hopper – ISA Certified Arborist Instructor, Owner of Urban Forestry Consulting
Dr. Mark Follis – Follis Tree Preservation President
Laurie Williams – Retired Horticulturist
Bill Bullock – Invasive Plant Removal Specialist: Overton Park
Joellen Dimond – Horticulturist
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
• The registration fee includes all classroom materials, a notebook, and dues for both the West Tennessee Urban Forestry Council and the state TUFC organization (upon submission of completed examination).
• CEUs may be available for ISA certified arborists upon request.
• Participants in this program can become certified as a Urban Forestry Tree Steward volunteer after completing 20 volunteer hours after their course and completion of the test.
