Urban Forestry Advisors Class 2026
Wednesdays, September 9 - October 14, 2026
9 am-1 pm
Investigate and learn about our urban forest from the experts. Instruction and outdoor learning will cover tree physiology, tree species identification, tree care, tree selection, risk management, how trees support wildlife, tree inventory, champion trees, the history of urban forestry, tree law for homeowners, and arboretum requirements. Classes are designed for the public, municipal employees, plant-related non-profits, arboretums, members of neighborhood associations, tree boards, garden clubs, and plant societies.
This class is sponsored by the West TN Chapter of the TN Urban Forestry Council, the Memphis Botanic Garden, and the Memphis Tree Board.
Your instructors for the course include:
Eric Bridges - Director of Operations & Capital Improvements: Overton Park
Laurie Williams – Retired Horticulturist
Bill Bullock - Invasive Plant Removal Specialist: Overton Park
Joellen Dimond - U of M Landscape Director
Dr. Mark Follis - Follis Tree Preservation President
Claire Barnett –Environmental Engineer
Wes Hopper - ISA Certified Arborist Instructor, Owner of Urban Forestry Consulting
What's included in this class:
Your class fee includes all classroom materials, a notebook, and dues for both the West Tennessee Urban Forestry Council and the state organization (upon submission of completed examination)
Things to know:
A limited number of scholarships are available; for more information, please contact jshellab@comcast.net
CEU’s may be available for ISA certified arborists upon request.
Participants in this program can become certified as a UFA volunteer after completing 20 volunteer hours after their course and completion of test.
This event is in partnership with the West TN Chapter of the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council and Memphis Tree Board
Class fee: $120 per person for 6 classes
Have questions? Contact us at 901-636-4136 or email carlee.zamora@membg.org for more information.
If you need assistance with registration please email boxoffice@membg.org
The Memphis Botanic Garden is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to being an exemplary center for horticulture and environmental enrichment. Serving over 40,000 school-aged children annually, and hosting over 260,000 visitors each year, Memphis Botanic Garden strives to enhance lives by connecting people with nature, increasing awareness and appreciation of our environment. Our 96-acre property includes 30 specialty gardens and a Level 4 Arboretum, which provide the ability to interact with various families of plants, flowers, and trees.
The Garden offers year-round programming and events for children, families, adults, art lovers, food lovers, music lovers, gardeners, and more! Beyond our annual happenings, we have a diverse offering of adult workshops and classes, youth classes and activities, art exhibits, horticultural features and events, and outdoor fun for all. Click here to explore upcoming events at the Garden.
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