Douglas Still
Consulting Arborist With nearly three decades of experience in arboriculture, I provide clients with objective assessments and planning advice about trees. Preserving old and mature trees safely is a key focus, as is planning for a diverse, healthy tree canopy. Zoning code compliance for tree and landscape plans is a specialty. Clients include private property owners, landholding institutions, municipalities, landscape architects and engineers. Credentials ISA Certified Arborist #NY-0625A ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ) Rhode Island Licensed Arborist #762 MS Forest Resources, Penn State University, 1996 Certified Mediator, Center for Mediation and Collaboration, RI I primarily serve Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
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Every tree has a story.
Long ago, I left my job in the art world for arboriculture after a class about trees unlocked the botanical world with descriptions of leaves, branch patterns, and flowers. I quickly learned how important trees are to our quality of life. As an urban forester for 26 years in New York City and then Providence, RI, I’ve overseen the care and management of tens of thousands of trees, and planted tens of thousands more (see my profile on LinkedIn). There is very little I haven’t seen when it comes to tree care and best planning practices.
Trees are critical environmental infrastructure, essential for healthy neighborhoods and the world’s climate. The ecosystem benefits are now scientifically measurable. We need to work toward making tree canopy more equitable across neighborhoods for the health of our most vulnerable fellow citizens.
But in our psyche, we know trees are more than just functionally important. What drives me most is the thought that trees will outlast us, provide comfort and inspiration for 100 years or more, and connect life experiences between generations. Every city forester has witnessed the emotional bonds between residents and their trees. Trees create a sense of place. They shape our experience of historic landscapes, as well as our own streets and backyards. Old trees are especially valuable, meaningful and irreplaceable.
I want to help your tree live a long and healthy life, whether old or new. Let’s create a living legacy together, and keep the stories alive too.
Long ago, I left my job in the art world for arboriculture after a class about trees unlocked the botanical world with descriptions of leaves, branch patterns, and flowers. I quickly learned how important trees are to our quality of life. As an urban forester for 26 years in New York City and then Providence, RI, I’ve overseen the care and management of tens of thousands of trees, and planted tens of thousands more (see my profile on LinkedIn). There is very little I haven’t seen when it comes to tree care and best planning practices.
Trees are critical environmental infrastructure, essential for healthy neighborhoods and the world’s climate. The ecosystem benefits are now scientifically measurable. We need to work toward making tree canopy more equitable across neighborhoods for the health of our most vulnerable fellow citizens.
But in our psyche, we know trees are more than just functionally important. What drives me most is the thought that trees will outlast us, provide comfort and inspiration for 100 years or more, and connect life experiences between generations. Every city forester has witnessed the emotional bonds between residents and their trees. Trees create a sense of place. They shape our experience of historic landscapes, as well as our own streets and backyards. Old trees are especially valuable, meaningful and irreplaceable.
I want to help your tree live a long and healthy life, whether old or new. Let’s create a living legacy together, and keep the stories alive too.
Douglas Still, Tree Consultant and Mediator phone 718.440.6293 email [email protected]