The speakers included notable arboriculture professionals such as Virginia Tech’s Brian Kane and Roger Harris, Tom Smiley, and Jason Heizer of Bartlett Tree Experts. All aspects of tree selection, tree planting, tree establishment, soil forensics, and drought recovery were thoroughly covered. Participants noted how much they appreciated receiving very up-to-date information that was based on much of the industry's latest research.

Mother Nature was on our side this year—the weather cooperated by being warm and sunny, a welcome prelude to spring. The afternoon session included demonstrations on tree planting, the use of an air spade for root collar excavations, and a tour of the Virginia Western Community Arboretum. Many participants were first time attendees, an encouraging sign of an increasing interest in the green industry.