Western Chapter ISA – Actions and Updates

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation progresses—certainly making for unsettling times—we learn more each day which allows us to establish a plan for moving forward.

Like you, we’re following advice and guidelines from our partners at ISA, the CDC, and our multi-state government agencies surrounding precautionary measures. The health and well being of our staff, members, and community comes first, we are working on the immediate calendar and are updating the events as plans are finalized. Additionally, Many of the WCISA staff will be working remotely with the full capabilities of serving our members.

In the meantime, here are some of our top priorities for the near future:

On Hold - DATE TBD

CRANE Removal Workshop featuring Jared Abrojena - Tahoma, CA 

 ASTI Bilingual Chainsaw Workshop - Anaheim, CA

ASTI Aerial Operations Workshop - San Francisco, CA 

PLEASE NOTE: All events are subject to cancellation or postponement. We will continue to monitor all scheduled events 30 days prior to start date to insure conditions are favorable.

Connecting Members Remotely
One of the benefits of in-person meetings is seeing your friends and sharing with peers. Since face-to-face interactions are not possible for the short-term, we will be creating opportunities for you to take advantage of your WCISA membership remotely. We will continue to connect our committees and board through teleconference and zoom meetings. Our social media sites are also a great mode to keep in touch with colleagues.

Tree Care is Essential Service
During these uncertain times, many state and local governments are shifting to “essential” work only. Hazard tree removal, Utility Line Clearance Tree Trimming and maintaining our urban forests, particularly as related to the impact from invasive pests are essential components of maintaining our infrastructure. While the jurisdictions, business activities affected, and length of time for the closure may differ, most will exempt essential businesses or essential business activities that relate to the safety of the public. A letter of support was emailed to all members on 3/23/2020. Feel free to forward the letter to your Representative and Senator so they can understand the importance of our industry and profession. (Look up your Senator or Legislator California, Arizona, Nevada and Hawaii).
TCIA & ISA joint statement
WCISA essential work letter

ISA TCIA Joint COVID Vaccine Letter

ISA and TCIA partnered to send a letter to several US-based organizations representing state elected officials providing information on the essential services that arborists perform on a daily basis. The intent of this letter is to inform state officials making decisions on inoculation prioritization for COVID-19 vaccines.

Please note: Please follow all local, state and Federal regulations during these extraordinary times. Practice social distancing on the job site and in the office.

The ADVISORY MEMORANDUM ON IDENTIFICATION OF ESSENTIAL CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE WORKERS DURING COVID-19 RESPONSE (Link) from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (March 28, 2020) states: …PUBLIC WORKS AND INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORT SERVICES – Workers such as plumbers, electricians, exterminators, builders, contractors, HVAC Technicians, landscapers, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, businesses and buildings such as hospitals, senior living facilities, any temporary construction required to support COVID-19 response

The federal Homeland Security Memorandum above is just for guidance and not mandatory.

Resources and Updates

Here is a great visual resource to see what's happening in your area:  https://www.cnn.com/resources/coronavirus-information/

Wishing you good health during this unprecedented time. 

Jimi Sheid, President
Rose Epperson, Executive Director