* These training opportunities are provided as an information service only and do not constitute endorsement by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
See below for information on training topics and events, including flowering trees, climbing events, ecological restoration and gardening, urban forestry risks, soil health, chainsaw training, useful software and online tools, advocacy, career advancement and maintaining optimism.
MSA Tree Climbing Championship & Festival of Trees
Join fellow tree huggers/climbers for this beloved annual event, which features two days of thrilling, high-climbing competition along with Saturday’s Festival of Trees. This free, public event includes a fun climb, tree trek, food vendors, educational exhibits and so much more!
When: May 1-3, 2026
Where: Augsburg Park (Richfield, MN)
Cost: Free
Learn more on the Minnesota Society of Arboriculture website.
The Morton Arboretum (Lisle, IL)
Surprising Spring Flowering Trees And Shrubs
Statement trees and shrubs provide unique landscape interest. Go beyond our most common spring flowering landscape trees and shrubs and discover superstar performers that aren’t found in every yard. Explore the diversity of options in the classroom, then walk the Arboretum grounds to see selections at the peak of their beauty in the landscape.
When: May 1, 2026, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: The Morton Arboretum, Cudahy Room, Administration and Research Center (Parking lot P-1), East Side
Cost: Non-members: $39, Members: $32
Register online.
Ecological Restoration
Ecological restoration is a process for recovering forests, grasslands and other ecosystems that have been degraded. Engage with experts in natural resource conservation and fellow participants and volunteers to challenge your assumptions and have conversations about ecological restoration. Explore what we mean when we say ecological restoration, consider examples in concept and practice and discuss the implications of this work.
When: May 2-3, 2026, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: The Morton Arboretum, Thornhill Education Center (Parking lot P-21), West Side
Cost: Non-members: $60, Members: $51
Register online.
Building Urban Ecosystems
Learn how to get started converting urban spaces like parkways and containers into oases of native prairie and woodland. Nick Conde, founder of the urban ecology nonprofit New Habitat, will lead a talk tracing the ecological history of Illinois from the recession of the glaciers 13,000 years ago to the present, highlighting key aspects that inform design today. Drawing from his background in ecological restoration and design, Conde will demonstrate how waste areas, parkways, alleys and other overlooked urban spaces can be transformed into resilient community habitats using rare native species adapted to the high-stress niches of northern Illinois and will conclude with concepts for the future of urban ecological restoration. Following the lecture, Conde will lead participants on an hour-long hike in the Schulenberg Prairie.
When: May 16, 2026, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: The Morton Arboretum, Administration and Research Center (Parking lot P-1), East Side
Cost: Non-members: $26, Members: $19
Register online.
Ecological Gardening 101
Ecological gardening approaches include nurturing soil health, smart water usage in both dry and wet situations, choosing plants both for their aesthetic beauty and their value to wildlife and implementing pest control practices that are safe for people and the environment. Learn to create a beautiful, functional garden while reducing resources and costs, using proper maintenance techniques, integrated pest management practices and using plants as problem solvers.
When: May 20, 2026, 6-9 p.m.
Where: The Morton Arboretum, Thornhill Education Center (Parking lot P-21), West Side
Cost: Non-members: $39, Members: $32
Register online.
International Society Of Arboriculture
Risks To Our Urban Forests And Woodlands
More people, organizations, municipalities and companies are realizing the importance of our tree canopy. But are we doing all we can to ensure a healthy, long-lived canopy? Are we helping or hurting trees in our urban forests and woodlands? What are the risks to our urban tree canopy, and can we reduce them? This course looks at those risks, from grower to installer to the tree workers charged with caring for them. We still have a long way to go. Approved for 6.5 CEU/HSW/PDH by the International Society of Arboriculture, ASLA, PLNA, SAF and post-course credits by the NSPE and NALP.
When: May 1, 2026
Where: online
Register online.
Trees And The Design/Build Industries
Many industries work with and around trees, but there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding them. If tree professionals, landscape architects, engineers and architects better understand the needs of each other, as well as the needs of trees, truly sustainable designs are a more likely outcome. This course presents research, science, standards and BMPs to help ensure our designs are both long-lasting and sustainable. Approved for 6.5 CEU/HSW/PDH by the ISA, ASLA, SAF and post course credits by the NSPE, PLNA and NALP.
When: May 8, 2026
Where: online
Register online.
Advanced Arboriculture And Tree Science
This in-depth science and research-based course is designed for tree professionals and allied industries that work with and around trees, including discussions of the latest training, techniques, science, research and tools. Biology, biomechanics, hydrology, pedology – all the important issues facing trees and tree professionals. Constantly updated with the latest science and research for discussion. Approved for 6.5 CEU/HSW/PDH by the ISA, ASLA, SAF and post-course credits by the NSPE, PLNA and NALP.
When: May 15, 2026
Where: online
Register online.
Arbor Chat: Introduction To Soils And Forest Soil Health
Join instructor Max Ross to learn about soils and forest soil health.
When: May 19, 2026
Where: online
Register online.
Risks To Our Urban Forests And Woodlands
More people, organizations, municipalities and companies are realizing the importance of our tree canopy. But are we doing all we can to ensure a healthy, long-lived canopy? Are we helping or hurting trees in our urban forests and woodlands? What are the risks to our urban tree canopy, and can we reduce them? This course looks at those risks, from grower to installer to the tree workers charged with caring for them. We still have a long way to go. Approved for 6.5 CEU/HSW/PDH by the International Society of Arboriculture, ASLA, PLNA, SAF and post-course credits by the NSPE and NALP.
When: May 22, 2026
Where: online
Register online.
The Urban Forest Myth?
What do we really mean when we say the “Urban Forest”? Are we all in agreement? What does it need to thrive? How do we know? Is it similar to a natural forest? If not, how is it different? Are we making any mistakes in trying to create or maintain it? Are there studies and standards we need to apply to it? If we can’t answer these questions, we may not be helping support our urban forests. And we need to be. This course will address all these issues and questions, as well as how previous attempts to “design” or “manage” the urban forest have worked out. A crucial look at an important topic. Approved for 6.5 CEU/HSW/PDH by the International Society of Arboriculture, ASLA, SAF and post-course credits by the PLNA, NSPE and NALP.
When: May 29, 2026
Where: online
Register online.
Riveredge Nature Center (Saukville, WI)
Scouts & Girl Scouts Tree Climbing Festival
Do you have Scouts or Girl Scouts that you’d love to send up into the trees? Encounter the giants of the forest and explore trees from a new perspective as you climb into the canopy under the guidance of trained facilitators. Ascend to the top, swing from a branch or try a “bat hang” – adventure awaits! Ages 7+.
The Tree Climbing Festival registration includes 20 minutes of climb time (please register for the time slot when you would like to begin), a scavenger hunt along the trails, a naturalist-led, hands-on nature investigation and access to picnic areas for lunch (please pack a bagged lunch and be mindful of single use plastic waste). Minimum of 1 chaperone per 10 youth is required.
When: May 2, 2026
Where: Where: Riveredge Nature Center
Cost: $25 per participant. Chaperones are free to attend. Climbing is reserved for youth participants.
Register online.
SAWW Level 1 Chainsaw Training
Join Safety and Woods Worker (SAWW) trainer Luke Saunders (forester with Blue Heron Stewardship LLC) for a hands-on training in chainsaw use, maintenance and technique. Spend time both outside and in the classroom, practicing how to operate chainsaws safely, comfortably and productively. This class is part one of a four level series through SAWW. Topics include personal protective equipment; body mechanics; chainsaw safety features; the chain and the cutter tooth; reactive forces; planning and executing tree felling, limbing and bucking; introductory bore cutting and open-face felling. Hands-on training gives participants the opportunity to fell at least one tree. Participants are encouraged to bring your own equipment and lunch. Helmets are mandatory.
When: May 6, 2026. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: Riveredge Nature Center
Cost: Non-members: $210, Members: $200
Register online by May 4, 2026.
Frothy Forage
Drink and do good! The Frothy Forage showcases local breweries, wineries and cideries in the stunning natural setting of Riveredge Nature Center. Enjoy three hours of sampling in a custom glass from over 15 local purveyors. Take a stroll through beautifully restored prairies, woodlands and wetlands with food trucks and live music along the way. All proceeds support Riveredge’s mission of connecting people to nature through environmental education and conservation in southeastern Wisconsin. This event will take place rain or shine!
When: May 16, 2026, noon – 4 p.m.
Where: Riveredge Nature Center
Cost: Regular admission: $50, NA admission: $20
Register online.
Tree Climbing Festival
Encounter the giants of the forest and explore trees from a new perspective as you climb into the canopy under the guidance of trained facilitators. Ascend to the top, swing from a branch or try a “bat hang” – adventure awaits! Ages 7+.
The Tree Climbing Festival registration includes 20 minutes of climb time (please register for the time slot when you would like to begin), a scavenger hunt along the trails, a naturalist-led, hands-on nature investigation and access to picnic areas for lunch (please pack a bagged lunch and be mindful of single use plastic waste). Open to individuals as well as groups. Minimum of one chaperone per 10 youth is required for youth groups.
When: May 30, 2026
Where: Where: Riveredge Nature Center
Cost: $25 per participant.
Register online.
Tree Care Industry Association
Advocacy 101: Developing And Sharing Your Story
This engaging webinar will help you transform your real-world experiences, whether in the field, on a crew or running a business, into meaningful narratives that raise awareness, build understanding and inspire policymakers to take action on issues impacting arboriculture.
Through practical guidance and simple storytelling frameworks, this session will equip you to confidently share your perspective in meetings, site visits and other advocacy settings. When decision-makers hear authentic stories from tree care professionals, they gain a clearer picture of the industry’s impact and the people behind it. That’s where meaningful change begins.
When: May 4, 2026, 2 p.m.
Where: online
Register online.
US Forest Service
Research & Development Presents: Invasive Species in Eastern Forests
Non-native species are common throughout the eastern United States. Some non-native invasive insects, plants, and diseases reduce the ecological and economic values that forests provide. The proportion of forest area negatively impacted has increased over the past decade. Mitigating invasive species can be challenging and costly. In this six-part webinar series, scientists will share management strategies that are grounded in research and discuss the impact of invasive species in the eastern U.S.
When: May 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 2026
Where: Hosted on Microsoft Teams
Time: 1 p.m. Central Time
Register for each webinar separately on the Forest Service website.
Urban Forestry Today
Urban Forests & The Digital Era: Environmental Analysis Tools For Practitioners
Education and awareness can help inform decision-making and resource allocation in urban forest management. Join Dr. Corinne Bassett, USDA Forest Service, and Sean Mullen, ReGreen Springfield, as they discuss tools like Tree Canopy, Tree Equity Score and i-Tree that promote an essential understanding of the key benefits of urban trees. CEUs available.
When: May 7, 2026, 11 a.m.
Where: Online
Cost: $25
Register online.
Midwest Invasive Plant Network
Utilizing Spray Drones For Managing Invasive Phragmites
Phragmites australis is an invasive grass species that dominates riparian areas and shallow waters across the midwestern U.S. Although control of established stands can be challenging, accessing sites for herbicide application with equipment is difficult, A two-year field study using traditional herbicides for Phragmites compared the use of a ground-based sprayer versus a drone for effective control. This presentation will discuss the results of this study. Presenter Dr. Reid Smeda, Professor in the Division of Plant Sciences at the University of Missouri.
When: May 7, 2026
Where: online
Register online.
Urban And Community Forestry Society
Rooted And Rising: Turning Early Career Challenges Into Lasting Success
Join this webinar for an energizing, peer-driven session that reframes the early career phase as a time of exploration and strategic positioning, helping you move forward with clarity and purpose. Through candid, real-world stories from peers, we’ll explore how to turn everyday tasks into meaningful experiences – connecting routine tree work to broader planning and ecological goals, embracing less glamorous assignments as skill-building opportunities and becoming a go-to contributor across teams.
This interactive session — brought to you by the UCFS Young & Emerging Professionals — is the first of three in the Career Compass series, designed to support your navigation through key stages of career growth. We’ll dive into how to stay motivated when progress feels slow, handle rejection with professionalism and find a sustainable work-life balance while building your credentials. This workshop webinar is approved for one ISA CEU.
When: May 7, 2026, noon – 1 p.m.
Where: online
Register online.
Certified Urban Forest Professional Study Groups
Are you ready to take the next step and become an ISA Certified Urban Forest Professional but need help preparing for the exam?
UCFS has you covered! Starting in May, we’ll host a five-part study group where you can connect with peers, learn from experienced urban foresters and have access to a curated study resource list. Prepare together to pass the exam with confidence. Find out more and get started today!
When: Weekly for five Fridays at 11 a.m. CT
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- May 14: Session 1
- May 21: Session 2
- May 28: Session 3
- June 4: Session 4
- June 11: Session 5
Where: online
Cost: Non-members: $100, Members: $65
Register online.
Centering Community Engagement In Urban Forestry Leadership
In this dynamic learning session, we will explore how to elevate engagement from a checklist of outreach tasks to a leadership-centered framework that informs strategic planning, risk assessment and municipal operations. Drawing on real-world experience, this session demonstrates how meaningful community engagement strengthens trust, advances equity and reduces operational and political risk.
Designed for municipal foresters, nonprofit programs and community leaders, Centering Community Engagement in Urban Forestry Leadership emphasizes that community engagement is not an “extra” skill — it’s a foundational leadership responsibility essential for advancing equity, mitigating risk and ensuring long-term program success.
Join us to transform the way you lead — you’ll gain the tools, strategies and inspiration to make community engagement a driving force in your urban forestry programs.
When: May 20, 2026, noon – 1 p.m.
Where: online
Register online.
Utility Arborist Association
Safely Introducing Helicopter Trimming Operations At A Rural Co-Op
Chris O’Neal, Head of Vegetation Management at SCI-REMC, will be interviewed by Pablo Fuentes, CEO of Bloom Spatial. Chris will share how SCI-REMC introduced helicopter trimming as a part of their program. Logistics, safety and the pros and cons of this approach will be covered.
When: May 20, noon – 1 p.m.
Where: online
Register online.
Purdue University
Applications & Solutions In Digital Forestry International Conference
Attend this international conference showcasing innovative tools, AI-powered solutions and their real-world applications in forestry. This is a one-of-a-kind event focused on research and development, industry applications and workforce development.
- Keynotes and breakout sessions
- Panel discussions and Q&A
- Networking
- Demos
- Poster sessions
When: June 3-5, 2026
Where: Purdue Memorial Union (101 Grant St., West Lafayette, IN)
Register online.
Resource Of The Month: Unearthing Optimism
From the Arbor Day Foundation, Unearthing Optimism brings you into the heart of a new kind of conversation about the future of our planet — one rooted in hope, resilience and the lessons nature offers. In each episode, Arbor Day Foundation CEO Dan Lambe uncovers fresh perspectives and real-world stories about enduring optimism in the face of environmental challenges. Through conversations with visionaries, experts and community leaders, we explore how nature, and the people who champion it, can strengthen communities and foster a more sustainable, vibrant future.
Episode three features acclaimed actor, writer and passionate environmental advocate Rainn Wilson (best known as Dwight from The Office) for a funny and honest discussion connecting culture to conservation. Upcoming episodes feature notable guests like Bill Nye the Science Guy, popular science YouTuber Hank Green and USDA Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz.
Subscribe in your podcast app or visit the Arbor Day Foundation website for more information.