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

The Town of Davidson welcomed Pete Grisewood as its first-ever town arborist in January 2020. Pete 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.  He is 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.