When it comes to tree care in South Louisiana, there are two types of folks you can call: a Certified Arborist… or the guy down the street with a chainsaw and a ladder he “borrowed” from his cousin.
At first glance, they might seem similar. Both cut branches. Both show up in a truck. Both might even wear the same camouflage hat. But there’s a world of difference between hiring a certified tree professional and trusting your hundred-year-old oak to someone whose qualifications stop at owning a gas-powered saw and a Facebook page.
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Certified Arborist, Anyway?
A Certified Arborist is a tree care professional who has passed a rigorous examination from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). That certification isn’t just for show—it means they’ve demonstrated real knowledge in tree biology, soil science, disease identification, proper pruning techniques, and safe removal practices.
They’re like the doctors of the tree world. You wouldn’t let your neighbor stitch up a wound just because he owns a sewing kit. Why trust him to care for a living, breathing part of your landscape?
The Chainsaw Cowboy: A Cautionary Tale
On the other hand, the “Tree Guy with a Chainsaw” is often someone who’s… let’s say, enthusiastic but untrained. Sure, he might have some experience. He might even have a cousin who used to work for the city. But without formal training, insurance, or proper safety protocols, he can do more harm than good.
Picture this: he drops a limb on your roof. Cracks a driveway with a falling trunk. Hits a power line. Then disappears faster than a crawfish boil on a summer Sunday. If he’s not insured or licensed, you could be the one footing the bill.
Why Certification Matters—Especially Here in the Gulf South
South Louisiana is home to some of the oldest and most iconic trees in the country. Live oaks, bald cypress, magnolias—they’re part of our heritage and property value. But they’re also vulnerable in our hot, humid, storm-prone climate. One wrong cut can expose a tree to rot, disease, or structural instability.
A Certified Arborist doesn’t just remove branches. They evaluate a tree’s overall health, understand root systems, know how to balance a canopy for wind resistance, and recommend care that extends the life of the tree—not shortens it.
It’s not about cutting—it’s about caring.
The Risks of Going Cheap
Here’s what can go wrong when you hire a chainsaw cowboy instead of a certified pro:
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Improper Pruning: Cutting too much, too fast, or in the wrong place can shock a tree and invite decay.
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Tree Topping: A dangerous and outdated practice that weakens trees, making them more likely to fall in storms.
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No Insurance: If something goes wrong, you could be liable for property damage or injury.
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No Permits: Some parishes require tree removal permits—your local “tree guy” probably doesn’t know that.
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No Cleanup Plan: Ever been left with a yard full of sawdust, branches, and regret? Enough said.
What You Should Look For
Before hiring any tree service, ask these questions:
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Are you ISA Certified?
If not, why not? -
Do you carry liability and worker’s comp insurance?
(If they say “my cousin’s got it,” run.) -
Can you provide references or photos of recent work?
Professionals take pride in their results. -
Do you follow ANSI A300 pruning standards?
If they say, “We do what needs doing,” that’s not an answer. -
Will you give a written estimate and scope of work?
Handshakes don’t hold up in court.
Pay Now or Pay Later
Yes, a Certified Arborist may cost a little more up front. But that’s because they carry insurance, use proper safety equipment, train regularly, and know what the hell they’re doing. You’re not just paying for their time—you’re paying for peace of mind.
A tree isn’t just some greenery in your yard. It’s part of your home, your curb appeal, your property value, and in many cases, your safety. Don’t gamble all that to save a few bucks on someone who learned tree work from YouTube and TikTok.
Final Thoughts from the Field
At Gardner Tree Service, we’ve seen the aftermath of DIY disasters and chainsaw cowboys more times than we can count. Broken fences, butchered trees, lawsuits—you name it. That’s why we always say: Do it right the first time.
If your tree needs pruning, removal, disease diagnosis, or storm prep, call someone who knows the science—not just the saw.
Your trees (and your wallet) will thank you later.