University of Illinois Extension Launches Tree Care Webinar Series

The University of Illinois Extension is hosting a comprehensive webinar series aimed at enhancing tree care knowledge among community members and professionals. This initiative underscores the importance of research-based practices in maintaining healthy trees, which play a crucial role in urban ecosystems. Proper tree care contributes to improved air quality, reduced stress levels, and greater comfort for residents.

The Community Tree Care Series will feature six informative webinars, each covering relevant topics designed to support tree health in local landscapes. The program caters to a diverse audience, including arborists, tree care professionals, municipal staff, and volunteers interested in expanding their expertise in tree maintenance.

Registration is mandatory for participants, with access to all six sessions provided. The webinars will take place from 09:00 to 11:00 hours (local time), featuring two topics per session. The cost for general access is $10, while those seeking Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will pay $50. Certified arborists who attend the live sessions can earn two hours of CEUs per session, as recognized by the Illinois Arborist Association. Participants must indicate their status as certified professionals during registration and provide their ISA certification number.

Webinar Schedule and Topics

The series kicks off on January 13, 2026, with the following schedule of topics:

– **January 13**: Trees for Pollinators and Evergreen Identification
09:00 – 10:00: People, Pollinators, and Trees: The Power of the Urban Forest
10:00 – 11:00: Needle Little Help? Evergreen Identification and Functions in the Landscape

– **January 20**: Forest Health Updates and Fungal Mutualists
09:00 – 10:00: Forest Pest Update: Who’s Here, Who’s Coming, and What Can You Do
10:00 – 11:00: Fungal Mutualists: The Good Guys of Fungal Infections

– **January 27**: Construction and Urban Soils
09:00 – 10:00: Protecting Trees During Construction
10:00 – 11:00: Addressing Urban Soils for Healthier Trees

– **February 3**: Chainsaw Safety and Pruning Young Trees
09:00 – 10:00: Chainsaw Safety: Practices, Equipment, and Behaviors
10:00 – 11:00: Pruning Young Shade Trees

– **February 10**: Changing Climate and Historic Pests
09:00 – 10:00: Urban Forest Trees in a Changing Climate: Impacts and Strategies
10:00 – 11:00: Historic Forest Pest Outbreaks in North America

– **February 17**: After Planting and Tree Responses
09:00 – 10:00: Rooted in Success: Tree Care After Planting
10:00 – 11:00: Branch Management: Tree Responses to Cultural Practices

Participants can register for the series at go.illinois.edu/TreeCareSeries. For inquiries or to request accommodations for participation, individuals are encouraged to contact Sarah Vogel and her team at [email protected] or by calling 217-877-6042. Early requests are advised to ensure accessibility needs are met in a timely manner.

This initiative by the University of Illinois Extension reflects a commitment to fostering community engagement and enhancing the skills necessary for maintaining a healthy urban forest. The series provides a vital opportunity for individuals to learn about tree care best practices, ultimately benefiting both local environments and community well-being.