In partnership with RNeighbors, The City of Rochester has created a training program to allow citizens to take part in a three part online training. (Volunteer Tree Steward Brochure). Within this training, Information is provided on benefits that trees provide, proper pruning, and how to correctly plant a tree. 

Virtual Training

We are working on a three stage training that can be taken online. Once all three trainings are available and online, you can become a Volunteer Tree Steward.  The three stages are Tree Pruning, Tree Care, and Tree Planting section. Currently Tree pruning and tree planting are available. 

• Stage one: Tree Pruning  Tree Pruning virtual training option

Why take the Tree Pruning Class?

With the certificate issued upon successful completion of this training, you will be allowed to prune limbs 2" and under on the public boulevard tree in front of your home.  This way, you will not have to wait for the Parks and Forestry Divisions pruning rotation for the trees on your boulevard to be pruned.  The information contained in this training module is based on information found in the US Forest Service Tree Owners Manual.  

• Stage two: Tree Planting Tree Planting Virtual option now available.

Why take the tree pruning class?

Planting a tree is a technical process and is the most important 20 minutes of its life.  Incorrect practices can lead to serious health problems for the tree.  Incorrect planting can severely reduce the lifespan of the tree.  Taking this class will allow you to lead community planting events with RNeighbors. 

Why is it important for Volunteers to be involved in urban tree planting?

RNeighborWoods community tree plantings are designed to unite volunteers in enhancing Rochester's urban forest. The role of a Tree Steward is essential, as they ensure trees are planted correctly, welcome all forms of assistance, and encourage group participation. Volunteers of all ages, with varying levels of tree knowledge, participate in these efforts, including toddlers, high school students, and older residents. Each contribute to the cause, learning as they participate. While some volunteers may not be doing the "heavy lifting," everyone has made the effort to rise early on a Saturday to assist. These tree plantings focus on properly planting trees and fostering a sense of community around Rochester's urban forest. These goals could not be accomplished without the knowledge and patience of Rochester's Tree Stewards.

Please see Information on pruning public trees. 

Neighborhood Tree Watch is a program where citizens can learn how to monitor urban trees in their neighborhood. This includes monitoring for crown dieback, cankers and galls, cracks, mushroom growth and much more. It is important that urban trees are monitored so that we can respond to tree disease spread and prevent safety hazards (Neighborhood Tree Watch Guide).

Sign up to Volunteer for Neighborhood Tree Watch

Would you like to help us keep our newly planted trees healthy and help them thrive?  Newly planted trees are at their most vulnerable state the first couple of years.  Regularly scheduled watering helps these newly planted trees establish and allows our urban forest to grow.  We are seeking volunteers to help water our newly planted trees during the growing season.  Volunteers will receive proper training and will be supplied all equipment and resources needed.  Volunteers must have a valid drivers license and be 18 years old or older. If interested please contact us via Email or call 328-2515.