Minnesota Tree Inspector Program

The certified tree inspector program was implemented in 1974 in response to Dutch elm disease and oak wilt. Since then, hundreds of communities have participated and there are more than 800 certified tree inspectors in Minnesota. Certified tree inspectors have passed a test in which they demonstrate proficiency in Dutch elm disease and oak wilt management, tree identification, firewood identification, and shade tree management. Tree inspectors must attend annual recertification workshops to learn the latest information on tree care, exotic species management, shade tree management, tree selection, insect and disease identification, tree health care and other timely topics.

Legislation passed in 2007 transfers Shade Tree Pest Management from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) responsibility to DNR responsibility. We believe that this change will result in improved protection for Minnesota urban forests. The MDA will maintain lead authority and responsibility for detection and exclusion of invasive forest pests threatening the state such as emerald ash borer, gypsy moth, sudden oak death, Asian long horned beetle, etc., and therefore they will continue to work closely with each of you and the DNR. This change, however, better aligns DNR forestry expertise and existing programs, such as the MN ReLeaf Grant Program, with municipal tree programs.

Minnesota Statutes passed in 2007(pdf)

New Tree Inspector Certification FAQ's

What is a certified tree inspector? Certified tree inspectors are people trained and certified to conduct local shade tree management programs.

What do certified tree inspectors do? Tree inspectors survey community tree populations to identify and manage disease and insect problems. They also provide recommendations for tree health and care. Tree inspectors proactively monitor for new exotic insect and disease problems such as emerald ash borer, Asian longhorned beetle, and sudden oak death.

How do I become certified? To be certified as a new tree inspector, you must pass an examination that measures knowledge in shade tree pest identification and management. Exams are given at the end of a new inspector training workshop. A person must pass the examination with a score of 70 percent or better to become certified. The workshop you attend includes basic instruction so that you can demonstrate the following qualifications:

• Be able to identify all native tree species, with or without leaves, and all felled or downed trees with bark intact common to your work area.
• Know and understand the biology of Minnesota's most common shade tree pests.
• Be familiar with symptoms of oak wilt and Dutch elm disease, and be able to identify other problems affecting oaks and elms.
• Know the proper method of collecting samples for disease diagnosis.
• Know the approved control methods for these common tree pests.
• Be familiar with recommended tree species used in replanting programs, their planting requirements, and the care of these trees after planting.

Where can I take a certification exam? Training workshops are conducted in cooperation with the University of Minnesota Forest Resources Extension & Outreach and are held throughout Minnesota. Testing is generally conducted in the afternoon of the workshop day. Check for training dates and locations.

What does the examination cover? The tree inspector examination covers shade tree statutes, shade tree pest management, tree identification, and firewood identification.

How long is the certified tree inspector certificate valid? Upon passing the examination, DNR will mail out your certificate, and you are certified for the current and following calendar year. For example, if you pass the examination in 2008, you are certified for 2008 and 2009. 

Recertification FAQ's

How do I recertify? Tree inspectors must take one continuing education workshop every year by December 31 in order to receive a certificate for the following calendar year. For example, attending a recertification workshop in 2007 will recertify a tree inspector for 2008. Tree inspector recertification is valid for one calendar year (January 1 through December 31). If you do not, your certificate expires. If you wish to be certified again, you must retake and pass the exam.

How much training do I need to recertify? A total of 6 hours is needed for recertification. You can either attend one 6 hour session or two sessions that are at least 4 hours in length. If training other than at the Shade Tree Short Course or other University of Minnesota-sponsored workshop is desired and meets the education criteria below, it could qualify for recertification. Submit agenda to the Tree Inspector Certification Program Coordinator for review and approval at least two weeks in advance.

Sample agendas at a workshop qualifying for recertification can focus on any of the following:

• Biology of native or invasive plants, insects or disease pests or disorders affecting shade trees
• Identification of symptoms characteristic of new insect, plant and disease problems affecting shade trees other than those of Dutch elm disease and oak wilt
• Proper methods of collecting samples for possible new plant, insect or disease diagnosis, and where to submit them
• Identification of exotic pest threats to Minnesota trees, including but not limited to gypsy moth, emerald ash borer, sudden oak death, Asian longhorned beetle and others as appropriate
• Recognizing hazard trees (high, moderate, and low levels of risk associated with urban trees)
• Minimizing decay, storm damage and maintenance damage to landscape trees
• Pruning for tree health and restoration pruning after tree damage
• Correcting structural defects in young trees
• Planting practices
• Diagnosing tree and shrub diseases, disorders or damage

When will Tree Inspector cards be mailed? Tree Inspector cards are generally mailed out within one month of your certification or recertification.

What workshops qualify for recertification?