The MN Certified Tree Inspector program was implemented in 1974 in response to Dutch elm disease and oak wilt. Since then, hundreds of communities, municipalities, and private tree care companies have staffed more than 800 certified tree inspectors in Minnesota. It is now administered by the Department of Natural Resources- Division of Forestry.

How to become certified?
In order to become a Certified Tree Inspector you need to pass a certification test that demonstrates proficiency in:

• Dutch elm disease management
• Oak wilt management
• Tree identification
• Firewood identification
• Emerald ash borer
  
• Rules and Regulations

When are NEW Tree Inspector Training workshops offered in 2010?
The University of Minnesota will host NEW Tree Inspector Training workshops on January 28th and May 20th in St. Paul. You can attend one of the trainings to help you prepare for the certification test.

Exams will be provided at the end of each training workshop. Once you submit a registration form and your payment a study packet will be mailed to you that includes information needed for examination. Study packets are NOT available online and are only available to individuals participating in the certification training!

How to maintain certification with recertification credit hours?
In order to maintain Certified Tree Inspector status you will need to attend annual recertification workshops and then submit continuing education hours to the DNR. A total of 6 hours (4 hours at one event) are needed for recertification and need to be cleared through the University of Minnesota. For more information on recertification visit MN DNR. Recertification workshops will need to teach the latest information on any of the following:

• tree care
• exotic species management
• shade tree management
• tree selection
• insect and disease identification
• tree health care
• other timely topics