How to become a Fairfax Tree Steward

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Enrollment: Enrollment for training classes begins in January. There will be an on-line enrollment application with a due date. To receive notification, subscribe to The Tree Blog  where we will announce the enrollment date and tuition amount. In subsequent years, membership dues are $20.

Classes: Trainees must complete all classes, quizzes, and field work to graduate. Classes will be taught primarily on-line. We use The Tree Stewards Training Manual developed by Trees Virginia. A quiz will follow each class. Field work will be taught at various locations and will cover tree identification, planting, and pruning.  Make up sessions will be arranged as needed. 

To become a Certified Tree Steward, you must complete 20 hours of service and 8 hours of continuing education by December 31st.  All members must complete these hours each year. Trainees are required to complete 10 hours of community service and are not required to report continuing education during their training year. We use Track-it-Forward to record hours. Service includes:

Educating the public through walks, table events, teaching classes, making presentations, etc.

Advocacy to protect trees, including:  

• Meeting with County officials and staff .
• Writing persuasive letters and comments on proposed policies.
• Speaking at public hearings and meetings. 
• Working with other environmental organizations to protect our habitat.

Hands-on work planting trees, pruning, and maintenance. This includes removing invasive plants from and around trees, and planting to prevent regrowth.

Administrative work for FTS such as website or Facebook writing or development; photographing events; writing grant applications; contributing to the running of the organization such as being an administrator for Track-it-Forward, answering questions from the public, financial tasks, etc.