arboricologen

Arboricologen are professionals who study and manage trees in biological, ecological, and urban contexts. They focus on tree health, growth, and form, diagnose diseases and structural problems, and advise on pruning, relocation, or removal. They also study how trees interact with soil, water, climate, and other organisms, and how tree populations contribute to urban and natural ecosystems.

Most arboricologen hold degrees in biology, forestry, horticulture, or landscape architecture, often with specialized training in arboriculture or plant pathology and health. They may work in universities, research institutes, municipal environmental services, or private consultancy. Key activities include tree health assessments and risk analyses, diagnosing pathogens or pests, planning and supervising pruning and cabling, selecting species for urban streetscapes, and conducting tree inventories and long-term monitoring. They collaborate with city planners, engineers, arborists, and ecologists, and may contribute to municipal tree protection policies, planting programs, and stormwater or microclimate mitigation strategies.

The field emphasizes evidence-based practice, safety, and sustainability. Arboricologen advocate for preserving mature trees where feasible, while ensuring public safety and ecological function. The term is used in Dutch-speaking regions, and in English contexts similar roles may be described as arboriculturists or urban foresters.