Thumbs Up for Online Learning
While we miss meeting and connecting in-person , the MAA ’ s on-demand webinars have been popular this Fall . An average of 150 members have participated in each of the webinars and the reviews have all been strong :
“ Thanks MAA for keeping us educated and informed during a difficult time .”
“ The on-demand format is super convenient . I watched the webinar at 5:00 a . m . today .”
“ Awesome way to be exposed to speakers from all over the world !”
We kicked off the season with a comprehensive look at forest health across Massachusetts presented by Nicole Keleher of the DCR . She gave members an in-depth look at everything concerning tree health including the effects of drought , pest and disease updates , and what to look out for in the future — and to quote Nicole , “ It isn ’ t all bad news !”
In October , Dr . Brian Kane reviewed his thorough research on rope tension and the forces at the anchor point when rigging a tree . His team ’ s research results provided guidance on how to reduce the odds of failure of the rigging
system . The biggest take away expressed by those in attendance was “ When in doubt , take a smaller piece !”
November ’ s webinar featured Dr . Tom Smiley — renown arboriculture researcher from the Bartlett Tree Research Lab in Charlotte , NC . He shared valuable information about growing trees near pavement with extensive research results to help arborists improve the life expectancy of trees in urban tree planting sites .
Coming Soon !
In February , Dr . Cheryl Smith , Director of the Plant Diagnostic Lab at UNH , will present a webinar entitled Continued Conversations with Conifers . She ’ ll focus on helping us understand the environmental factors that contribute to disease development in conifers , as well as the latest management strategies .
In March , Joann Vieira , Director of Horticulture for The Trustees , will present her list of great trees that add diversity to the landscape , as well as address specific challenges like climate change , drought , pests and diseases . This will bea great precursor for our Arbor Day project at the Ames Estate on April 30 .
DECEMBER ON-DEMAND WEBINARS : Sign Up Today at MassArbor . org Take advantage of rolling registration and 10 days to view at a time that works for YOU !
DECEMBER 7 – 17 , 2020
Pruning Trees & Shrubs : From Malicious to Magnificent Erik Draper • Ohio State University Extension
Rehabilitating poorly pruned plants back into pleasant landscape contributors is a science and an art . Review the limitations of corrective pruning practices , as well as basic principles of plant physiology that determine how plants grow .
DECEMBER 7 – 17 , 2020
Keeping Good Employees in Troubled Times Neal Glatt , CSP , ASM • GrowTheBench . com Offered in cooperation with MLP
Discover how to get employees more involved in , committed to , and enthusiastic about their work and workplace through simple tactics that are proven to significantly reduce turn over while increasing productivity , sales , and profitability .
The MAA plans to offer on-demand webinars throughout 2021 . Any and all suggestions as to speakers or topics are welcome . Please contact the MAA with your ideas !
Interested in sponsoring a webinar ?
For sponsorship information , please contact Charissa Sharkey at CSharkey @ MassArbor . org or ( 508 ) 653-3320
10 MAA NEWS DecemBer 2020