What is Urban Forestry and Arboriculture?

Urban Forestry involves the planning and management of urban forests, while Arboriculture focuses on the care of individual trees and other woody plants and the landscapes.

Learn more about being an Arborist

International Society of Arboriculture Home Page

Urban and Community Forestry

The Urban and Community Forestry Program of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service is the only Federal program dedicated to growing and maintaining urban and community trees, forests, and green spaces. Authorized under the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1978, Urban Forestry assists States and partner organizations in applying nature-based solutions to chronic and emergent economic, social, and environmental challenges.

Alignment with WNMU

The Rural Southwest New Mexico Integrated Urban Forestry Project (RSNMIUFP) aligns with Western New Mexico University’s (WNMU) mission and vision by promoting accessible education and professional development in urban forestry for underserved communities, particularly Hispanic and Native American populations. It fosters a diverse and inclusive learning environment, empowering students with essential skills for lifelong success while encouraging critical thinking and community engagement. The project supports WNMU’s commitment to public service and economic development by creating job opportunities in arboriculture, thereby enhancing community health and sustainability, and positioning WNMU as a premier institution dedicated to impactful education and environmental stewardship.

WNMU’s Mission and Vision

https://administration.wnmu.edu/university-mission-vision-and-values/

The Rural Southwest Integrated Urban Forestry Project

The Western New Mexico University (WNMU) Division of External Affairs was awarded a $5 million five-year grant project that plans, designs, plants, and maintains a set of urban forests across southwestern New Mexico. The project supports expanded and ecologically sound urban forests in the communities of Silver City, Santa Clara, Bayard, Hurley, Deming, and Lordsburg.

Arboriculture and Urban Forestry Program at WNMU

• Program Overview: A comprehensive, hands-on certificate program designed to provide the skills and credentials needed for careers in tree care and urban forest management.
• Flexible Career Tracks: Students can choose between a Climbing Track (focusing on the art/practice of tree climbing) or an Urban Forestry Management Track (focusing on the science of managing green spaces).
• Core Curriculum: The program includes foundational coursework in:
  • Intro to Arboriculture & Urban Forestry
  • Care & Cultivation of Trees
  • Tools & Equipment
  • Groundwork
  • Internship
• Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for roles such as Arborist, Urban Forester, Tree Climber, Forestry Technician, and Urban Forestry Planner.
• Professional Partnerships: The program is supported by industry leaders, including the USDA Forest Service, the Society of American Foresters, and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), alongside non-profit partners like Tree New Mexico.
• Contact Information: Interested individuals can reach out to Erik Geyer (Assistant Project Director) at the M.E.Ch.A Building, Room 209, or by phone at 575.538.6497.