Trees Knoxville Announces Free Fall 2025 Volunteer Forester Program
Classes Begin September 17
Trees Knoxville is excited to announce the launch of its Fall 2025 Volunteer Forester Program, a complimentary four-week certificate course offering residents a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge of trees while enhancing Knoxville’s urban canopy. Participants attending at least three sessions will earn the Volunteer Forester I Certification.
Program Format:
- Dates & Times: Wednesdays from 6:00–8:30 p.m.
- Format: Each session includes expert-led instruction, interactive discussion, and a mid-class break with light snacks. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for any outdoor components.
Session Schedule & Topics:
Session 1: Introduction to Trees Knoxville, followed by How Trees Work led by urban forestry consultant Paul Ries and Kasey Krouse, City of Knoxville Urban Forester
September 17, 2025, 6–8:30 p.m.
City of Knoxville Public Works Service Center, 3131 Morris Ave.
Session 2: How to Plant a Tree demonstration and hands-on activity plus discussion on Right Tree, Right Place, co-led by Melissa Hinten, Trees Knoxville Executive Director, and Kasey Krouse
September 24, 2025, 6–8:30 p.m.
EV Davidson Recreation Center, 3124 Wilson Ave.
Session 3: Wood Science, exploring the fundamentals of wood, wood products, and firewood banks, presented by UT Professor Adam Taylor
October 1, 2025, 6–8:30 p.m.
City of Knoville Public Works Service Center, 3131 Morris Ave.
Session 4: Fall Tree Care, followed by Q&A with Certified Master Arborist Nicholas St. Sauveur of Davey Tree, small-group discussions, final assessment, and certificate presentation
October 15, 2025, 6–8:30 p.m.
Larry Cox Senior Center, 3109 Ocoee Trail
About the Volunteer Forester Program
Trees Knoxville’s Volunteer Forester Program offers immersive, hands-on training on urban forestry essentials. As the first fall session of its kind, this course equips volunteers with the skills needed for tree planting and care, drawing on diverse topics from biology to practical tree maintenance. After completing the program, participants are eligible to lead planting events and proudly wear their earned Trees Knoxville Volunteer Forester T-shirt.
Cost & Registration
This session is free, but donations to support Trees Knoxville’s mission are gratefully accepted. Registration is required and is open now via the Trees Knoxville website at www.treesknoxville.org/events
Why This Matters
Knoxville’s tree canopy is essential for cooling, beautification, and environmental resilience. The Volunteer Forester Program empowers everyday citizens to become stewards in their community. Trees Knoxville achieves its goal of planting hundreds of trees each season with community support.
Contact for More Information
Trees Knoxville
P.O. Box 3252, Knoxville, TN 37927
Phone: (865) 333-0924
Email: info@treesknoxville.org
About Trees Knoxville
Trees Knoxville is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding Knoxville’s urban forest through community engagement. From planting events and tree walks to educational programs like Volunteer Forester.
