Citizens must live in a healthy environment, so town government will protect watersheds, trees, air quality, and other elements of the town’s ecology.

In September 2021, the Town of Davidson hired Gary Thacker as its new town arborist. Gary, an ISA Certified Arborist as well as a TCIA Certified Tree Safety Professional, brings 22 years of industry experience to Davidson, its residents and their trees, and the town's mature tree canopy.

The Town of Davidson Arborist serves as the expert for all of the town’s municipal tree efforts, arboriculture (the cultivation of trees and shrubs), public tree planting and management, tree removal, and urban forest management, including development and interpretation of the town’s tree ordinance regulations.  They are also charged with leading community outreach efforts, building partnerships, and coordinating public education.

So, what does an arborist do?

An arborist studies the structure and function of trees- things like growth, cultivation, reactions to pruning, diseases, de-compartmentalization of decay, and all the various aspects of tree surgery.  An arborist is also interested in the management and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other woody plants. Their job is more generalized than a tree service technician, though, as arborists care for the health of the entire tree, much like that of a family doctor.

And specifically, for the Town of Davidson?

Davidson's arborist provides leadership for the town's:

• Arboriculture,
• Related land use permitting,
• Tree management, and
• Community tree programs

The town's arborist also works with residents, developers, homeowner groups, elected officials, advisory boards, and other community groups.

Are trees really that important?

Yes! The value of trees extends far beyond their beauty, providing social, environmental, and economic benefits for years and years. Check out the Trees are Good site here to learn about these benefits.