Richard W. Harris Urban Horticulture Scholarship Award
The Britton Fund extends congratulations to Seona Sherman and Jade Abrue, recipients of the 2025–2026 Richard W. Harris Urban Horticulture Scholarship at the University of California, Davis. This scholarship endowment is named in honor of the late Professor Richard W. Harris, a prominent leader in the science and practice of arboriculture who taught at UC Davis for over 30 years. The Britton Fund provides an annual contribution to the program, matched by the WCISA, to ensure the scholarship’s growth and success. The award supports undergraduate students majoring in Environmental Horticulture and Urban Forestry. To learn more about history of the scholarship program and Dr. Harris’ contributions to research and education, visit Our Funded Programs.
“We are proud to support emerging professionals through the Richard W. Harris Urban Horticulture Scholarship Program.
Investing in student scholars strengthens the future of our industry and advances the science-based research and education that tree care professionals rely on every day.”
Rose Epperson, Executive Director, The Britton Fund
New Recycled Water Irrigation Guide Supports Landscape Professionals
Irrigating San Francisco Bay Area Landscapes with Recycled Water has been gifted to The Britton Fund. This Guide helps landscape owners, designers, and managers use recycled water effectively in Bay Area landscapes. It explains how to assess site conditions, adapt existing landscapes, design new ones, and maintain those irrigated with recycled water. Developed from a comprehensive body of work by landscape professionals, scientists, and water engineers, this summary reflects their combined expertise and practical recommendations for successful recycled water use. The Guide is available as a free download with an optional donation of $20.00 to The Britton Fund to further support science-based research for professionals in the West. To access the Guide, visit Publications.
“As professionals dedicated to sustainable tree and landscape care, WCISA members will find this Guide an invaluable resource. It translates complex recycled water science into practical steps we can use in the field—helping us design, manage, and maintain landscapes that thrive while conserving one of our most precious resources.”
Nelda Matheny, contributing author and Senior Consultant HortScience | Bartlett Consulting
The 19th Annual Britton Fund Ride
The Britton Fund has announced the date of April 27, 2026, for its 19th Annual Britton Fund Ride. Partnering with the WCISA’s 92nd Annual Conference and Trade Show, April 27–30, 2026, at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite National Park, the Ride will begin in Oakhurst, California—the Gateway to Yosemite. This signature fundraising event will help support The Britton Fund’s new initiative with the Urban Forest Institute (UFI) to develop bilingual tree-care tools for WCISA members. Learn more about the Ride, sponsorship opportunities, and ways to volunteer under Events.
“Participating in the Britton Fund Ride is both inspiring and deeply rewarding. You feel the impact with every mile—knowing your effort directly supports research, education, and the professionals who care for our trees. It’s a meaningful way to give back to a profession we all rely on, and the camaraderie among riders makes the experience unforgettable.”
Cyclist from a recent Britton Fund Ride event
Recognition awarded to The Britton Fund
The Britton Fund has earned the distinguished Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest level of recognition awarded by Candid, showcasing a nonprofit’s deep commitment to transparency and accountability. Earning this distinction means the organization has publicly shared extensive information, including financial details, strategic goals, measurable outcomes, and operational insights. This honor places the organization among the top 0.1% of charities nationwide for transparency.
“We’re honored that The Britton Fund has been recognized at the Platinum level by Candid. This distinction reflects our deep commitment to transparency, accountability, and the meaningful impact our donors make possible. It’s a testament to the trust our community places in us—and to the real difference we’re making for tree care professionals throughout the West.”
Doug Anderson, Board Chair, The Britton Fund
Chloe’s Trees: Growing Green Futures
The Britton Fund is pleased to introduce Chloe’s Trees, an innovative new app designed to engage children and families with the trees they plant. By registering a tree with a unique code, young tree stewards can access personalized growth updates, planting tips, and seasonal care guidance. This interactive platform fosters a lifelong connection to nature while encouraging environmental responsibility. With Chloe’s Trees, learning about tree care becomes an engaging journey—one that inspires curiosity, stewardship, and a shared commitment to healthier communities. Learn more and access the app under Our Funded Programs.
“Chloe’s Trees is more than an app—it’s an invitation for children and families to form a lasting connection with the trees they plant. By blending education with hands-on care, we are nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards and ensuring that the value of healthy trees is carried forward.”
Nancy Hughes, Board Member, The Britton Fund
The Britton Fund Supports the Next Phase of Climate-Ready Trees Study
The Britton Fund has awarded a $5,000 research grant to support the next phase of the Climate-Ready Trees study, now nearing its tenth year. Led by university researchers and industry leaders in arboriculture, this project evaluates 12 promising tree species across three California climate zones to guide urban tree selection in a changing climate. With USDA funding lost, Britton’s support ensures the continuation of data collecting and field outreach through 2026. Learn more through Our Research.
Photo courtesy of UC Davis.
“Supporting the Climate-Ready Trees study reflects exactly what The Britton Fund stands for – advancing research that helps arborists and communities make informed, future-focused decisions. This grant will help ensure that a near decade of critical data collection will continue and be shared, strengthening the science behind climate-resilient urban forests across the West.”
Dr. James Downer, Research Chair for The Britton Fund
The Britton Fund Releases 2024 Annual Impact Report
The Britton Fund has announced the release of its 2024 Annual Impact Report, highlighting a year of progress in the advancement of arboriculture in the West. In collaboration with the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture, The Britton Fund continues in its commitment to raise philanthropic funding to support scientific research, the promotion of tree health, and delivery of high-quality education to tree-care professionals. The report features the awarding of two research grants and the Board of Directors’ strategic planning efforts to guide The Britton Fund’s future impact. Read the full report here.
“This report reflects not only the measurable impact of our programs, but also the collective dedication of our donors, volunteers, and partners. Together, we are strengthening the future of arboriculture and the professionals who care for our urban and community forests.” Doug Anderson, Board Chair, The Britton Fund
New Technical Information Sheets Now Available
Two new Technical Information Sheets — Diagnosing and Treating Sources of Water Stress in Urban Landscapes and Improving Soil Conditions in Urban Sites — are now available on The Britton Fund website. Authored by Dr. Linda Chalker-Scott, a leading expert in horticulture and landscape architecture at Washington State University, both reports were published in Western Arborist magazine and funded through a Britton Fund Research Grant. These free, research-backed resources offer essential guidance for tree-care professionals and urban landscape enthusiasts. Both reports are available under Funded Programs.
“Providing science-based, practical resources is at the heart of The Britton Fund’s mission. Dr. Chalker-Scott’s technical information sheets offer tree-care professionals and urban landscape stewards the knowledge they need to make informed, effective decisions. We are proud to support this work and make these valuable resources freely accessible to our community.” Rose Epperson, Executive Director, The Britton Fund
Trees Damaged by Fire – An information guide
In response to Southern California’s devastating fires, The Britton Fund’s Board of Directors created an information guide to help care for fire-damaged trees. It offers professional advice on assessing tree recovery, protecting root zones, and promoting natural regeneration. It also highlights what to avoid, such as premature removal, excessive pruning, and unnecessary soil compaction. Proper care for fire-damaged trees not only supports environmental recovery—minimizing soil erosion, reducing heat, and improving air quality—but also preserves the emotional and aesthetic value these trees bring to our communities. To access this two-page guide, visit Technical Information Sheets.
“The Britton Fund Board moved swiftly to create this essential resource to assist families, friends, and businesses affected by the devastating fires in Southern California. Together, we will aid in the recovery of our landscapes and safeguard the trees that hold such deep value for our communities.” Doug Anderson, Board Chair, The Britton Fund
AZT Donates New Book
Arid Zone Trees (AZT), a former leading Arizona grower of desert-native and adapted trees, has donated its recently published book to The Britton Fund. Landscape Design & Maintenance for Southwest Desert Trees: An Arid Zone Tree Compendium, is authored by Edward Mulrean, Ph.D., Kevin Salamandra, and Cliff Douglas. It reflects over thirty years of expertise, offering foundational philosophy and practical guidance. The compendium serves as both a textbook and a reference for desert horticulture and design. Donated as a “legacy gift,” AZT has directed 100% of the book’s sale proceeds to support science-based research for professionals in the West.
For more information and to purchase this new book, visit Publications.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to AZT for this remarkable legacy gift, which will advance tree research and education for WCISA members and tree enthusiasts across the West. This sharing of knowledge and expertise is a profound and lasting gift that will benefit the arboricultural community for years to come.” Rose Epperson, Executive Director, The Britton Fund
Britton Fund Announces New Research Awards
The Britton Fund’s Research Committee is pleased to announce the awarding of two research grants to Dr. Joanna Solins, Environmental Horticulture Advisor at the UC Cooperative Extension. Dr. Solins and her research teams have received a $29,280 grant for a two-year study on the effects of turf conversion on mature landscape trees. A second grant of $3,285 will fund a one-year study exploring the cooling benefits of climate-ready trees. Research outcomes will be made available online, as well as through WCISA publications, industry seminars, and conferences. For more information on active and recently completed projects funded by The Britton Fund, please visit Our Research.
“These projects represent an important step forward in our understanding and ability to protect vital tree ecosystems. We believe the outcomes will not only advance scientific knowledge but also offer practical solutions for the challenges we face in a changing climate.” Dr. James Downer, Research Chair for The Britton Fund
Britton Board Members Recognized
Three Britton Fund Board members were recognized in April at WCISA’s 90th Annual Conference and Tradeshow in San Diego, California. Nancy Hughes received the Executive Director’s Award, John Crandell the Award of Achievement, and Lisa Smith the R.W. Harris Award for Excellence in Education. Read about their outstanding service to our tree-care profession in the Western Arborist magazine, Summer 2024.
“The Western Chapter of ISA recognized several individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to the arboriculture industry. From tree care professionals, educators, and researchers who go above and beyond in their work to communities that prioritize sustainability and environmental stewardship, the award winners were truly deserving of recognition.”
Western Arborist Magazine, Summer 2024
New Scholarship Recipient for 2023-2024
The Richard W. Harris Urban Horticulture Scholarship has been awarded to Seona Sherman of Redwood City, California. Sponsored through The Britton Fund, the annual scholarship is awarded to undergraduate students who major in Environmental Horticulture and Urban Forestry at the University of California, Davis. Over the past eleven years, 25 students have been awarded the Harris Scholarship. Read more about the Harris Scholarship Program and Seona Sherman under Funded Programs.
“We are thrilled to support Seona’s educational journey and look forward to her contributions to the field of urban forestry. The Harris Scholarship is a vital part of The Britton Fund’s mission to nurture future leaders in arboriculture.” Rose Epperson, Executive Director, The Britton Fund
The Britton Fund Annual Impact Report 2023
The Britton Fund has released its Annual Impact Report for 2023, highlighting a year of achievements and fundraising milestones benefiting the field of arboriculture in the West. In partnership with the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture, The Britton Fund made remarkable strides in promoting tree health, supporting scientific research, and providing educational opportunities for tree-care professionals. The Annual Impact Report provides an overview of accomplishments and showcases the positive impact made possible through collective effort. Read the full report here.
“Our achievements in 2023 are a testament to the dedication and generosity of our community. We are immensely thankful for everyone who has contributed to our mission.” Doug Anderson, Board Chair, The Britton Fund
Nevadan joins the Board of Directors
During its first meeting of the new year 2024, The Britton Fund’s Board of Directors welcomed John Crandell as its newest member.
Recognized throughout the Nevada tree-care industry, John Crandell worked 32 years for The City of Reno Parks and Urban Forestry Dept. He retired as the City of Reno Tree Inspector and now operates John Crandell Tree Care, where he still climbs, and does consulting.
An active member of the Western Chapter of the ISA, John also serves as a member of the WCISA Board of Directors with experience as a past member of the Certification, Marketing, and Annual Conference Committees. He was the first ISA Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist® in Nevada, is an ISA Certified Arborist®, ISA Certified Arborist Utility Specialist™, and ISA Certified Arborist Municipal Specialist®. He currently serves as President of The Nevada Shade Tree Council.
“Working outdoors has been one of the most enjoyable aspects of arboriculture, as well as meeting and working with so many great professionals in such a specialized field. WCISA was a defining factor in helping me become the professional that I am today, and I have benefited from the many resources made possible by The Britton Fund. I look forward to taking an active role in supporting the research and educational opportunities that made a difference in my career. ”
John Crandell, Commercial Arborist, Owner of John Crandell Tree Care
The Tour des Trees returns to the West Coast
The Tour des Trees is an annual long-distance cycling adventure, which serves as the TREE Fund’s primary public outreach and community engagement event. This past fall, the Tour des Trees returned to Western Chapter territory with a five-day ride beginning in Reno, Nevada and crossing the finish line in Half Moon Bay, California.
Read about the celebration of shared goals to support our tree-care professionals and a memorial tree planting to remember two past riders and good friends in the article “WCISA and The Britton Fund Welcomes the Tour de Trees back to the West Coast” published in the Western Arborist magazine, Winter 2023.
“The evening was filled with friendship and storytelling highlighting our collective accomplishments, with focus on the importance of funding research and recognition of the many benefits that trees provide in our daily lives.”
Western Arborist magazine, Winter 2023
A New Britton Fund Publication
Lead author, Jim Downer, brings together exceptional experts who discuss the science of trees important to landscape management in the West. Co-authors and distinguished research specialists include Matt Ritter, Ed Bobich, Bruce Hagen, Linda Chalker-Scott, Kevin T. Smith, and Igor Lacan.
Sponsored by The Britton Fund, Botany for Arborists is a compendium, a collection of articles regarding the taxonomy, anatomy, and physiology of trees in the landscape, and originally published as a highly regarded series in the Western Arborist, the educational magazine of the Western Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture.
Botany for Arborists is available for purchase through The Britton Fund’s Bookstore.
“Having a fundamental understanding of tree structure and function, as well as other aspects of botany is something arborists cannot afford to ignore. I’ve endeavored to present clear, concise, and detailed discussions on the most important subjects regarding the biology (botany) of trees. This information is relevant to the routine work that arborists do, and essential for them to offer sound advice and competent services.”
Dr. James Downer, Horticulture and Plant Pathology Advisor, emeritus. University of California, Ventura County
Deadline Extended! Submission of pre-proposals has been extended to January 31, 2024
Request for Research Proposals is Announced
The Britton Fund is proud to announce a request for proposals for its 2023-2024 Research Awards Program. Dedicated to advancing the field of arboriculture by championing research and education initiatives tailored to the interests and needs of WCISA members, The Britton Fund’s research grants offer important financial support for qualified projects, extending up to an approximate limit of $30,000. Projects may continue for up to two calendar years, with the promise of subsequent publications enriching the body of knowledge in the field.
For those eager to participate, January 31, 2024, is the NEW submission deadline for pre-proposals. Detailed guidelines for developing comprehensive research proposals can be found on The Britton Fund’s research webpage, ensuring that submissions align seamlessly with its mission and goals. The Britton Fund’s research grant program is made possible by the generosity of the WCISA community including WCISA members, corporate sponsors, foundations, industry partners, private and public donors, who share in the belief that education and research will advance the tree-care profession.
The Britton Fund Supports New Research
The Britton Fund provided research funding to support Matt Ritter, Ph.D., Jenn Yost, Ph.D., and Cami Pawlak, MS (graduate student and Western Chapter Scholarship recipient) with their project, Trends in Native Tree Plantings in Urban California: Where are trees native in the urban environment? This data will be used to assess what percentage of California’s Urban Forest is currently native in a select set of 80 species with high-quality urban tree inventory data.
Read the team’s recent article “Native to Where? California’s Native Trees and Their Use in the Urban Environment” published in the Western Arborist magazine, Summer 2023.
“Species selected for California’s future urban forests should be able to withstand future climatic challenges. Our research shows that there are limited options for planting native trees in California’s urban forest. We hope that our work can help inform management goals and species selections for healthy urban forests for California’s future.” Western Arborist magazine, Summer 2023
Congratulations to Kevin Eckert as the incoming President for the Western Chapter of the ISA
Residing in Kailua, Hawaii, Kevin is the Founder and President of Arbor Global and President of Smart Trees Pacific. He is a member of the Board of Directors for The Britton Fund and will begin his term as President of the WCISA in July 2023.
Kevin has been a member of the ISA and WCISA since 1989 and has served both organizations in many capacities. With over 20 years of program research, design, implementation, and management experience, Kevin has developed a high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities with the diversity of issues and challenges encountered in tropical and temperate arboriculture and vegetation management. He is an ISA Certified Master Arborist®, ISA Certified Utility Specialist®, and ISA Tree Risk Assessor Qualified® (TRAQ) instructor.
Kevin has served as a Britton Fund board member since 2017. Through his service on this board, Kevin has been instrumental in directing thousands of dollars to support important research, educational programs, and publications benefiting tree-care professionals in the west. He will maintain his position on The Britton Fund board during his term as WCISA President.
The Britton Fund Board of Directors look forward to working with Kevin in his new role and will support his success over the coming year.
“Factual, well-founded knowledge based on scientifically proven facts is power and provides our industry the ability to better meet our personal and professional missions for tree management.” Kevin Eckert, WCISA President 2023-2024 and The Britton Fund Board Member
The Britton Fund Welcomes New Board Member
Lisa Smith, CEO and Founder of The Tree Resource, has joined The Britton Fund’s Board of Directors.
We know Lisa well as a past board member (2010-2018) and president (2016-2017) of the Western Chapter of ISA where her leadership was recognized and appreciated. She brings extensive professional experience to The Britton Fund board and deeply believes in our mission. Lisa values the science-based research, publications, and the educational opportunities that improve the tree care profession and health of our neighborhood trees and urban forests. Lisa is a creative and strategic thinker. We look forward to her involvement in our work.
In addition to being an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist® and ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist®, Lisa is also an ISA Tree Risk Assessor Qualified® (TRAQ) instructor, an ASCA Tree and Plant Appraiser Qualified (TPAQ) instructor.
“An arborist’s job is not only to evaluate the health and vigor of your trees but to analyze their safety, enhance their structure, apply scientific evaluation and proper treatments so that we may enjoy a tree’s lifetime of beauty and comfort.” Lisa Smith – CEO & Founder of The Tree Resource