The 2018 WAA/DNR Annual Conference was held February 18-20 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This year there was a record attendance of 857 people. Those in attendance were from the private industry, business owners, municipal staff, and state employees. Again, this year there were several different tracks attendants could attend: general sessions, climbers corner, introductory, business and utility. Across these tracks many topics were covered, from insects and pests to climbing and building an arboriculture business. This three-day conference also hosted many different exhibitors from the industry to provide attendees with up-to-date technology, equipment and practices to improve their work.

Like past years, this year also recognized several individuals improving the industry and those that have lead careers and lives supporting urban forestry and advocating for community improvement through greening efforts. The ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) and Urban Forestry Council presented awards to 13 people who were very deserving.

Other highlights from the conference include the election of new WAA board members, an update on the UW-Stevens Point program, discussion surrounding the Arborist Apprenticeship program and an update from Applied Forestry Bureau Director, Carmen Hardin, on what is going on at the DNR.

The WAA also hosts a summer and fall conference for those unable to attend the larger annual conference. Visit their site for more detail on the WAA conferences. For other arboriculture related events view the Urban Forestry training and events page.

For more information contact Ellen Clark at EllenA.Clark@wisconsin.gov or (608)267-2774.