Process Driven Growth
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Ocean Ballroom - Clipper/Surf Room
Kristoffer Rasmussen, Arborist Strong, Azle, TZ

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
On the Right Track to Aerial Rescue
Kristoffer Rasmussen, Arborist Strong, Azle, TX

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Building a Scalable and Resilient Tree Care Business
Kristoffer Rasmussen, Arborist Strong, Azle, TX

SPEAKER BIOS:

Kristoffer Rasmussen, Arborist Strong, has dedicated over 30 years to advancing tree care, safety training, and urban forest preservation. With experience as a municipal, commercial, and residential arborist, he shares insights and stories from a lifetime in the field. As a Certified Treecare Safety Professional, Certified Tree Climber, TCIA Accreditation Auditor, and Red Cross CPR/First Aid Instructor, Kristoffer is committed to the safety and growth of arborists and their communities. He plays a pivotal role in assessing and accrediting tree care companies, driving them toward excellence and adherence to industry standards. His passion for sustainable practices and fostering collaboration makes him a respected leader and advocate in arboriculture.

What’s Up Doc?
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Ocean Ballroom - Galleon/Harbor Room

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Impact of Injection Regimes

Stephanie Adams, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX

Performing stem injections is a common practice in plant health care. This practice helps ensure the product enters the targeted tree and minimizes unnecessary non-targeted environmental impact. Unfortunately, it also requires mechanically injuring the tree. This presentation will highlight the pros and cons of long-term injection practices.

8:30 PM – 9:00 AM
Determining the Limits of Radial Root Growth: Trees and Sidewalk

Dr. Andrew Koeser, University of Florida Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Wimauma, FL

Trees are extraordinary organisms, overcoming tremendous obstacles to push their roots through the soil while keeping their limbs reaching skyward. Though their resilience is remarkable, every tree has its limits—whether from overly compacted soil or powerful winds. But what if we could measure these limits and use that knowledge to design more resilient hardscapes? In this study, funded by the Florida Chapter ISA Grant Program, we highlight findings from a three-year investigation into the limits of radial root growth (diameter expansion). Join us to discover: How much pressure is too much for a root to overcome? And how can this knowledge help reduce tripping hazards and sidewalk lifting?

9:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Right Place for Urban Tree

Dr. Adam Dale, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

We commonly reference the phrase, 'right plant, right place', regarding setting up urban trees for success. This may refer to USDA Hardiness Zones, soil moisture, sun exposure, overhead power lines, and other common factors that may affect long-term tree health. However, urban landscapes are nuanced and dynamic. In his session, we will discuss how characteristics of urban landscapes, like pavement, surrounding vegetation, and access to resources influence trees and the insect pests that affect tree health. Using multiple case studies, we will discuss specific ways to increase the longevity and health of trees planted and/or maintained in urban landscapes.

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Field Guide to Disease in Florida Trees

Katy Deitz, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

This field guide is intended to assist arborists in diagnosing trees in landscapes and managed areas through the use of synoptic keys. This guide features common tree diseases and abiotic disorders encountered in Florida but may also be useful for the Southeast.

Speaker Bios: 

Dr. Stephanie Adams, Ph.D., Texas A&M University, is a Board Certified Master Arborist accredited by the International Society of Arboriculture. She is an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Tree and Landscape Plant Health within the department of Plant Pathology & Microbiology at Texas A&M University. With 24 years of experience in the tree care and green industry, Stephanie’s extension and research efforts focus on the multifaceted roles of urban and rural trees, the ecosystem services they provide, and the dynamics of tree and landscape plant health in the face of a changing climate.

Dr. Andrew Koeser, University of Florida Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, is an assistant Professor of Landscape Management at the University of Florida Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Hillsborough County. Prior to this position and his last stint in graduate school, Andrew worked at ISA Headquarters in Champaign, IL, working his way up to Science and Research Manager in his five years with the organization. Andrew is the Immediate Past President of the Florida Chapter ISA Board of Directors, Chair of the Education Committee and a member of the Executive and Finance Committees.

Dr. Adam Dale, University of Florida, is an Associate Professor and the Associate Chair for Extension in the Entomology and Nematology Department at the University of Florida. He did his PhD at NC State University, where he studied the effects of urbanization on scale insects and urban trees. His current research and Extension programs are centered around insect ecology and management on plants in urban landscapes, including trees, shrubs, palms, and lawns.

Katy Deitz, University of Florida, is a PhD student at the University of Florida in the department of Plant Pathology, under the advisement of Dr. Matt Smith. She earned her BA in Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Oklahoma and MS in Forest Resources and Conservation, under the advisement of Dr. Jason Smith. She is also the principal author of the Field Guide to Wood Decay Fungi on Florida Trees.

Student and Early Career Arborists
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM 
Ocean Ballroom - St. Augustine Board Room

8:00 AM – 8:20 AM
Tree and Landscape Impacts and Perceptions Following Hurricane Milton

Alyssa Vinson, UF/IFAS, Tampa, FL

Following the intense hurricane season of 2024, an electronic survey was conducted to assess landscape impacts, costs, perceptions and intentions. The presentation will discuss the findings of that survey and applications for outreach and education.

8:20 AM – 8:40 AM
Wood You Be My Neighbor? Dead Wood Conservation in Urban Landscapes

Katy Deitz, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

Dead wood plays an important role in ecosystems. Fungi and insects break down wood into new soil that can be used for new trees and plants. Likewise, everything from dead branches to stumps, from logs to snags or wildlife poles can be occupied by many different organisms for nutrients and habitats. This campaign aims to keep dead wood in urban landscapes to promote biodiversity and reduce habitat fragmentation.

8:40 AM – 9:00 AM
The Impact of Urban Trees on Stress Levels

Christy C. V. Suhendy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

This study investigated the relationship between urban trees and stress levels in Florida residents using the 3-30-300 rule framework. Data collected from Florida adults aged 45+ via an online survey that measured perceived stress using the PSS-4 scale, along with demographic information and green space engagement patterns. The findings suggest that regular, active engagement with green spaces plays a more critical role in stress reduction than mere proximity or passive exposure to urban trees. This underscores the importance of designing accessible, engaging natural environments that encourage frequent use, rather than simply increasing tree numbers or canopy coverage.

9:00 AM – 9:20 AM
Trees and Climate Change

Teagan Young, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

This presentation explores how climate change is reshaping urban forestry practices by integrating insights from controlled greenhouse experiments and multisite field trials. First, we examine the physiological responses of six common Florida urban tree species—Acer rubrum, Lagerstroemia indica, Liquidambar styraciflua, Magnolia grandiflora, Quercus virginiana, and Ulmus alata—subjected to elevated temperature treatments (30°C, 36°C, and 40°C) over 21 days. Key measurements, including water potential, turgor pressure, chlorophyll content, visual leaf stress, and quantum yield fluorescence, revealed marked species-specific variability, with Quercus virginiana and Magnolia grandiflora showing superior heat resilience.

The presentation then connects these findings to the 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zones update, which reflects significant temperature shifts in Florida. Field trials conducted in Davie, Gainesville, and Quincy assessed the performance of six underutilized tree species—Araucaria heterophylla, Bulnesia arborea, Exothea paniculata, Guaiacum officinale, Krugiodendron ferreum, and Vachellia farnesiana—across different climatic zones. Results underscore that while species like Vachellia farnesiana and Araucaria heterophylla thrive in warmer settings, others struggle in colder conditions. By combining controlled experiments and real-world evaluations, this research provides actionable insights into urban forestry planning. It emphasizes the importance of selecting climate-adaptive species, implementing assisted migration strategies, and tailoring tree selection to local environmental conditions to ensure the long-term ecological health and resilience of urban green spaces.

9:20 AM – 9:40 AM
Quality of Nursery Stock in Florida

Taylor Sherer, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

Currently, little is known about the variability of nursery stock quality between big box stores and local growers. The presentation outlines current research aimed at evaluating the quality of 15-gal. live oak in Florida by 1) quantifying the likelihood and severity of root defects, 2) determining the quality according to the Florida Grades and Standards for Nursery Plants, 3) evaluating the development of defects based on two different approaches to pruning (i.e., proactive vs. reactive), and 4) assessing the amount of pruning required to reach an acceptable grade. Furthermore, surveys will be conducted for homeowners to compare the data from the field trial to real market behaviors exhibited and green industry professionals to better understand nursery production methods. Additionally, the research seeks to determine each group’s understanding and implementation of planting and pruning BMPs for young trees.

9:40 AM – 10:00 AM
Are Trees the Answer? Rethinking Climate Resilience in Urban Communities

Lillian Dinkins, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

This research explores the role of climate resilience initiatives in urban communities, questioning whether tree planting alone is the solution to environmental challenges. Through interviews with organizations across the Southeast, this research examines how climate resilience is defined, the extent to which communities are involved in decision-making, and the strategies used beyond tree planting to address environmental inequities. By analyzing these perspectives, this study sheds light on the power dynamics shaping urban climate initiatives and their long-term impact on marginalized communities.

SPEAKER BIOS:

Alyssa Vinson, UF/IFAS, is an avid lover of all things outdoors, spending her time in gardens, on trails and in the water. She is currently a PhD student at the University of Florida and is a certified arborist through the International Society of Arboriculture. She currently serves the community of Southwest Florida in her role as Urban Forestry Extension agent in Hillsborough County. With an emphasis on resilient and sustainable landscape practices, urban forestry, and natural resources conservation her work spans ecology, horticulture, urban forestry and community development to deliver research-based education to the communities of southwest Florida.

Katy Deitz, is a PhD student at the University of Florida in the Department of Plant Pathology, under the advisement of Dr. Matt Smith. She earned her BA in Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Oklahoma and MS in Forest Resources and Conservation, under the advisement of Dr. Jason Smith. She is also the principal author of the Field Guide to Wood Decay Fungi on Florida Trees.

Christy C. V. Suhendy (Suzie), is a Ph.D. student in the Department of Environmental Horticulture at the University of Florida. Her research focuses on the intersection of urban forestry and public health, with particular emphasis on how green spaces affect human health and wellbeing. She is currently leading research examining the relationship between urban trees and stress reduction in Florida communities. Her current work utilizes the 3-30-300 rule framework to understand how different aspects of urban greenery influence psychological outcomes. Christy's research is supported by the Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education Agency and the University of Florida's Center for Land Use Efficiency. She is passionate about creating more livable, sustainable cities where urban forests contribute meaningfully to residents' mental health and quality of life.

Teagan Young has extensive experience in environmental horticulture, landscape design, teaching, and extension work. She holds a Bachelor of Science in geography from Western Michigan University, a Master of Science in horticultural sciences with a concentration in environmental horticulture from the University of Florida and completed her Ph.D. in horticultural sciences with a concentration in environmental horticulture at the University of Florida in 2025. Her research focuses on the impacts of future environmental conditions on urban tree populations, including species adaptability and mitigation strategies for urban heat island effects.

Taylor Sherer is a master's student at the University of Florida studying arboriculture in the Environmental Horticulture department. I received my bachelor's in Biological and Plant & Environmental Science from Clemson University in 2023. My research background began with assessing physiological responses to temperature in cotton and soybeans. Later in my undergraduate career, I switched to studying the evolutionary patterns of color and thermoregulation in wildflowers. My passion for plant science has carried through to my graduate studies, where I am learning how to address issues faced by trees in the urban landscape.

Lillian Grace Dinkins is a PhD candidate at the University of Florida studying urban forestry and urban greenspace in Florida. Lillian is a graduate of Tuskegee University, AL where she majored in Environmental, Natural Resources, and Plant Sciences with a concentration in Forestry, Wildlife, and Fisheries. Additional academic achievements include a variety of internships, fellowships, and scholarships – to include a 2023 John P. White Scholarship. Lillian is a long-time student and advocate for urban forestry. Her initial background is environmental science with a focus in wildlife and forestry. Lillian takes a special curiosity in understanding people and their connection to nature and the human dimensions of urban forestry. Her current research focuses on enhancing equity, accessibility, and sustainability of urban forest resources. Future research will shed light on overcoming barriers to achieve long-term success with the expansion of tree canopy through community tree giveaways – to include enhancing tree canopy in disadvantage communities.