Growing Gold! Putting Research into Practice
Growing Gold education days 2026 at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo brought arborists and tree-care professionals together for two days of engaging classroom and outdoor learning focused on the latest advances in young tree care. Developed by the Urban Forest Institute and leading urban forestry experts, the new Growing Gold suite of bilingual (English and Spanish) educational tools provides practical, research-based guidance – from nursery production through early landscape establishment. The resources are designed to help professionals apply current research and best practices in their communities, extending the impact of the event well beyond two days. Hosted by WCISA and The Britton Fund, proceeds from Growing Gold will support future research and education opportunities. To learn more, visit Our Funded Programs.
The combination of classroom presentations and outdoor field demonstrations gave us practical, research-backed insights into root management in the nursery, species selection, planting best practices, and structural pruning. We are walking away with a deeper understanding of early tree care and are eager to apply these practices to cultivate healthier, more resilient urban forests in our own communities.
Cristina Basurto, Urban Forestry Project Manager, North East Trees
WCISA Women in Arboriculture Receives
$5,000 Grant
The Britton Fund has announced a $5,000 education grant to WCISA Women in Arboriculture to help expand access and affordability for participants attending the WTCW Experienced Tree Climbing Workshop, November 6–9, 2026, on Catalina Island, California. Designed for experienced climbers who meet specific prerequisites, the workshop will strengthen technical skills through safety briefings, advanced climbing techniques, and hands-on practice at multiple climbing stations. Just as importantly, the program provides a supportive environment where women in arboriculture can learn from one another, build confidence, and strengthen professional connections. Registration is now open.
“Supporting opportunities like this is an important part of The Britton Fund’s commitment to strengthening arboriculture through education. We’re proud to help create opportunities where women can build their skills, confidence, and professional connections within our industry.”
Rose Epperson, Executive Director, The Britton Fund
2026–2027 Richard W. Harris Urban Horticulture Scholarship Recipient is Announced
The Britton Fund is pleased to announce that Ellen Haong has been selected as the 2026–2027 recipient of the Richard W. Harris Urban Horticulture Scholarship at the University of California, Davis. Established in 2013, the scholarship honors the legacy of Dr. Richard Harris while investing in the next generation of urban forestry professionals. Originally from Los Angeles, California, Ellen is beginning her third year at UC Davis majoring in Plant Sciences. She joins a growing community of student scholars whose education and career development are supported through the generosity of Britton Fund donors. To learn more about the history of the scholarship and Dr. Harris’ lasting impact on arboriculture, visit Our Funded Programs.
“The Richard W. Harris Urban Horticulture Scholarship is more than financial assistance—it is an investment in the future of our profession. By supporting talented students today, we are helping cultivate the knowledgeable, passionate leaders
who will care for our urban forests for generations to come.”
Lisa Smith, Chair of the Development Committee, The Britton Fund
New! Woodchip Mulches for Landscape Trees
The Britton Fund has announced the release of its newest Technical Information Sheet, Woodchip Mulches for Landscape Trees, now available as a FREE download on its website. Authored by Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, Extension Specialist and Professor Emerita of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture at Washington State University, this five-page publication was originally featured in Western Arborist magazine and made possible through a Britton Fund Research Grant. Technical Information Sheets translate complex research into practical, science-based guidance, offering clear recommendations, best practices, and current industry standards. Available in English and Spanish, download this latest resource under Our Funded Programs.
“Knowledge is one of the most valuable tools we can provide to those who care for trees. By supporting educational resources like Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott’s Technical Information Sheets, The Britton Fund is helping ensure that science-based research becomes practical solutions that benefit trees, professionals, and communities alike.”
Rose Epperson, Executive Director, The Britton Fund
Emeritus Board Member Title Awarded
The Britton Fund Board announced that Dennis Swartzell has been awarded the title of Emeritus Director in recognition of his twelve years of service on the Board of Directors. In 2025, he completed his sixth Board term, helping guide The Britton Fund and serving as secretary/treasurer. An ISA Board Certified Master Arborist and ISA TRAQ-qualified professional, Dennis has been a member of the Western Chapter ISA since 1985. He has served on numerous committees and was WCISA President in 2013. From 2014–2018, he served on the ISA Board of Directors as Secretary and Chair of the Nominating and Elections Committee. While stepping off The Britton Fund Board, Dennis will continue to be an active member of WCISA, championing research and education and volunteering at Britton fundraising events. Learn more about the Board of Directors.
“I’ve always believed that when we invest in people, we strengthen the future of our profession. Knowing John Britton and benefiting from the credentialing process he helped create significantly changed my career path. Serving as a member of The Britton Fund Board has been an opportunity to continue the legacy of John Britton and those who founded the Fund.”
Dennis Swartzell, Principal, Horticulture Consultants, Las Vegas, Nevada
The Britton Fund 2025 Annual Impact Report
The Britton Fund has released its 2025 Annual Impact Report, showcasing another year of progress in advancing arboriculture across the West. In partnership with the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture, The Britton Fund continues to grow philanthropic support for research, tree health, and education for tree-care professionals. The report highlights a new partnership with the Urban Forest Institute, technical information sheets, and an innovative app for children and families, alongside ongoing Board-led strategic efforts. Together, these initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting the people and science behind healthy urban and community forests. Read the full report here.
“Our 2025 Annual Impact Report represents the power of a committed community coming together to invest in the future of arboriculture. Through research, education, and partnership, we are not only supporting today’s tree-care professionals—we are helping to shape a more resilient and informed industry for generations to come.”
Doug Anderson, Board Chair, The Britton Fund
Arizonian Joins Board of Directors
The Britton Fund is pleased to welcome Beverly Babb to its Board of Directors. Beverly brings more than two decades of experience as a nonprofit executive, consultant, and small-business owner, with deep expertise in strategy, fundraising, finance, governance, and operations. She is an ISA Certified Arborist, and from 2014–2024, Beverly served as Executive Director of the Arizona Community Tree Council, leading education and workforce development initiatives, managing urban forestry and green infrastructure grants, and building lasting partnerships across the arboriculture community. Beverly has worked closely with WCISA, chaired the 2025 WCISA Conference in Tucson, and currently serves as Chair of the WCISA Marketing Committee. She also brings strong foundation leadership experience from her tenure as Chief Operations Officer of the National Speakers Association.
“I’m honored to join The Britton Fund Board and support its vital work advancing research, education, and scholarships for the arboriculture profession. The Britton Fund’s regional focus and long-term commitment to growing knowledge and opportunity make it a powerful force for the future of tree care.” Beverly Babb, Principal Owner, Dynamic Nonprofit LLC
Call for Proposals:
2025–2026 Britton Fund Research Grants
Research funding proposals are now due March 31, 2026. The submission deadline for the 2025–2026 Research Awards Program has been extended — giving researchers more time to apply for funding that supports innovative research and education aligned with the interests of WCISA members. Qualified researchers are invited to submit projects that advance tree care knowledge and address current challenges faced by professionals in the WCISA states (CA, HI, NV, AZ). Grants of up to $30,000 are available to support scientifically sound research, preliminary studies, and collaborative efforts with industry partners. Full guidelines, proposal requirements, and evaluation criteria are available under Our Research.
“Each year, The Britton Fund’s research awards help us push the science of arboriculture forward in meaningful ways. These grants support practical, science-based solutions to the challenges our industry faces—from tree establishment to climate resilience, and emerging pests. We are proud to partner with researchers whose work directly strengthens the knowledge and tools available to tree care professionals across the Western Chapter and beyond.” Dr. James Downer, Chair of the Research Committee, The Britton Fund
The Britton Fund Partners with UFI on Young Tree Care Resources
The Britton Fund has announced a partnership with the Urban Forest Institute (UFI) to create new bilingual (English/Spanish) tools that support WCISA members in young tree care. The project includes updated Tree Care Cue Cards—original quick-reference guides by Brian Kempf and Dr. Ed Gilman—and a series of short instructional videos featuring leading experts. These resources will cover nursery production, planting, pruning, and early establishment, with release planned for 2026. Learn more under Our Funded Programs.
“High-quality guidance on young tree care is essential. By supporting UFI, we’re investing in tools that will help our members make informed decisions from nursery production through early establishment. We invite donors to join with us in sustaining this important work and expanding the resources available to our tree care community.”
Doug Anderson, Board Chair, The Britton Fund
Look Back at Previous News and Events.
Invest in the Future of Tree Care.
The Britton Fund advances arboriculture through research, education, professional training, and community outreach across the West. Your support helps deliver practical, science-based resources to the people caring for our urban forests every day.
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