Jeremy Ryan
Arboriculture has become a critical field in Ireland, deeply intertwined with environmental conservation, rural, urban and suburban planning and landscape management. Trees are integral to the nation’s identity, shaping both its rural and urban landscapes.
Over the last two decades, arboriculture education and training in Ireland have undergone significant changes, driven by the increasing need for highly trained professionals in the face of environmental challenges and growing industry demand. This article will explore the development, current state and future of arboriculture education, highlighting some key milestones, trends and initiatives that are shaping the profession’s future.
Early history
Arboriculture’s roots in Ireland stretch back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the importance of systematic tree care and management began to be recognised. This period marked the start of formal efforts to manage trees more effectively, particularly in urban areas. However, it was not until the latter part of the 20th century that a greater emphasis on arboriculture emerged, driven by increasing urbanisation and larger-scale national infrastructure projects. These changes highlighted the need for trained professionals who could manage trees and amenity woodlands in both urban and rural settings.
In the early years, pathways into arboriculture in Ireland were varied and indirect. Institutions such as the Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture and Teagasc Ballyhaise College offered foundational and advanced training in horticulture and forestry, equipping students with some essential skills related to tree care and woodland management. Although these programmes were not dedicated solely to arboriculture, they played an important role in preparing students for work in related fields.
The 1990s saw the emergence of more specialised arboriculture training, spurred by both public and private sector demand. These programmes were heavily influenced by developments in the UK, where arboriculture was (and remains) a more advanced and professionalised field. During this period, vocational training and certification programmes gained traction.
In 2003, a significant milestone was reached when the first cohort of Irish arborists ever to be trained at an Irish institution graduated from Teagasc Ballyhaise College. However, due to the absence of an accredited arboriculture education programme in Ireland, many public and private sector providers continued to offer UK qualifications. These qualifications often included elements, such as regulation and legislation, that were not directly applicable in an Irish context, highlighting the need for a more tailored approach to arboriculture education in Ireland.
Nurturing growth.
Certification and professional development
Historically, international professional certification has played a crucial role in the development of arborists in Ireland. Organisations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Arboricultural Association (the Association) have long offered certification programmes that are widely recognised within the industry. Certifications like the ISA Certified Arborist and the Association’s Technician Certificate require candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise through rigorous examinations. These certifications have helped to standardise the skills and knowledge required for professional practice in arboriculture.
In industry, organisations and associations have also played a key role. Groups such as the Tree Council of Ireland, the Arboricultural Association (Ireland Branch) and the Society of Irish Foresters have provided some platforms for networking, professional development and advocacy.
Public engagement has also been a critical factor in the development of the arboriculture professions. Initiatives such as National Tree Week, organised by the Tree Council of Ireland, have played a vital role in raising awareness about the importance of trees and proper tree care.
In recent years, arboriculture education in Ireland has seen significant advancements. In 2022, Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board (GRETB) introduced the QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Arboriculture, marking a significant step toward standardising and modernising the education available to aspiring arborists. With more than 60 students having enrolled on the programme to date, it has quickly become the industry-standard qualification for Ireland.
In addition to this qualification, GRETB launched Ireland’s first continuing professional development (CPD) system for arboriculture in January 2024. This initiative provides monthly specialist training and education events for professional arborists, foresters, landscape architects, ecologists and other professionals with an interest in trees and amenity woodland.
Opportunities
As Ireland grapples with complex environmental challenges such as climate change, urbanisation and biodiversity loss, the role of arboriculture and the need for advanced education in this field will become increasingly important. Several trends and developments are poised to shape the future of arboriculture education.
1. Integration of Technology and Innovation: The incorporation of advanced technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing and tree health monitoring sensors will revolutionise arboricultural practice. Future arboriculture education programmes will need to integrate these technologies into their curricula, ensuring that students are well-prepared to use data analytics and emerging tools like drones for tree inspection and surveying.
2. Emphasis on Sustainability and Climate Resilience: With climate change posing significant threats, arboriculture education will need to focus more on sustainability and resilience. Arborists and other professionals will need to learn how to select and manage tree species that can withstand changing environmental conditions. Courses that cover adaptive management practices, ecosystem services and the role of green infrastructure will become essential.
3. Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Approaches: Addressing the complex environmental challenges of the future will require interdisciplinary approaches. Collaboration between arboriculture, ecology, landscape architecture, urban planning, environmental science and other professions will be essential. Educational institutions will need to create interdisciplinary programmes and foster partnerships that equip students with a broad understanding of how trees interact with the ecosystems and human communities around them.
4. European Perspectives and Exchange Programmes: As arboriculture becomes more globalised, exchange programmes and international collaborations will offer valuable opportunities for Irish students and professionals. Partnerships with institutions in other countries will facilitate knowledge exchange, research collaborations and exposure to diverse arboricultural practices. A broader European perspective will enhance the quality of arboriculture education in Ireland, preparing graduates to work on international projects.
5. Lifelong Learning and Continued Professional Development: Given the dynamic nature of the field, ongoing professional development and lifelong learning will be critical. Providers will need to offer flexible learning options, such as online courses, workshops, and short-term training programmes.
Challenges
Despite these promising developments, arboriculture education in Ireland faces several challenges that must be addressed to ensure its continued growth and relevance.
1. Funding and Resources: One of the main obstacles to expanding and improving arboriculture education programmes in Ireland is limited resources. While planned investments in infrastructure will create opportunities, institutions will need to collaborate on the development of graduate and postgraduate programmes to attract and retain both students and faculty.
2. Public Perception and Awareness: Although public awareness of the importance of trees and tree care has increased in recent years, more work is needed to raise the profile of arboriculture as a profession. Educational institutions and industry organisations must continue to engage in outreach and advocacy efforts to highlight the critical role arborists play.
3. Skills Shortages and Workforce Development: Like many other industries, the arboriculture sector faces skills shortages and an ageing workforce. Providers must attract new entrants while also offering opportunities for existing professionals to upskill. Mentorship programmes, apprenticeships and close collaboration with industry stakeholders will be crucial for addressing these challenges.
4. Regulatory and Policy Support: The growth and development will also depend on strong regulatory and policy support. Educational institutions, industry associations and government agencies must work together to create policies that promote sustainable tree management, incentivise research and ensure the implementation of best practices across the industry.
A national centre of excellence
One of the most exciting developments for the future of arboriculture education in Ireland is the planned establishment of a National Centre of Excellence in Arboriculture at Petersburg House in Clonbur, County Galway. Spearheaded by GRETB in partnership with the Department of Education, this multi-million-euro project will be a major step forward for the field. Located amidst scenic parklands and forests overlooking Lough Mask, the centre will provide world-class facilities for arboriculture education and training.
The National Centre of Excellence will serve as a hub for education and life-long learning, fostering innovation, promoting sustainability and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. It will provide essential infrastructure, including areas for tree cultivation, workshops, laboratories and lecture halls, ensuring that students receive hands-on training alongside their theoretical education. The centre will also support ongoing professional development, offering short courses, CPD programmes and workshops tailored to the needs of professionals working in fields such as arboriculture, ecology, forestry, land management, horticulture, landscape architecture and urban planning.
By addressing these challenges and capitalising on opportunities for growth, the centre will position Ireland as a leader in both national and international practice.
Jeremy Ryan is an arboriculturist, rural practice surveyor and the National Programme Coordinator for the QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Arboriculture at Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board. He is based at Petersburg House, Clonbur, County Galway and Julianstown, County Meath.
This article was taken from Issue 208 Spring 2025 of the ARB Magazine, which is available to view free to members by simply logging in to the website and viewing your profile area.