Reflections Before TCI Expo on the State of the Arboriculture Industry
The beginning of fall means it’s time to get into the spirit for TCI Expo. The largest annual gathering of arborists in the country is a great opportunity to showcase new products and developments and catch up with others in the industry. It’s also a good time to think about the challenges in the green industry and what we can do to address them.
What are some of the most common challenges in the green industry right now? We discuss them here, as well as our company’s thoughts and approach to the issues.
Labor Shortages
Shortage of workers has been a problem since 2020, and this seems likely to continue for some time. New workers are hard to come by, and there can be a high turnover rate, which can make workflow unpredictable. This makes it even more important to find tools and processes that are easy for new hires to learn, and to increase efficiency to maximize profits. Finding new methods of work that are both efficient AND effective is critical, and our products are designed with this in mind.
Invasive Insects and Disease
Invasive insects and diseases have always been a problem, and an increasingly connected global economy has resulted in more new ways for pests to spread. A direct example is the rapid growth of emerald ash borer and spotted lanternfly in the US. Both insects are native to Asia and would be unable to make it to the US without the use of manmade transportation. Since its initial discovery in Pennsylvania in 2014, Spotted Lanternfly has spread to 17 states, and Emerald Ash Borer has become the most destructive woodboring pest in the country in just 20 years, with millions of ash trees lost as a result. While quick solutions, or ones with broad-range affects, might be appealing to the public, consideration must always be made towards solutions that are safe as well as effective, and can be sustainable in the long term.
Emerald ash borer remains one of the most destructive invasive forests pests in North America since its first discovery in 2002.
Direction Of the Industry
Much of the discussions at TCI Expo this year, including our own, will revolve around the future of the green industry and evolving trends we aim to pursue. As the industry becomes more concerned about conservation, we see more and more plant health care equipment switch from gas to electric and battery power. Greater awareness of sustainability means developing and promoting chemistries that do not have harmful side effects on the environment. We plan to share some of our newest innovations that address these issues specifically.
Commitment To Helping
As stewards of the environment, we recognize the benefit that trees provide to us, our communities, our economy, and our planet. Protecting these resources from issues like invasive insects, diseases, drought, malnutrition, and difficult growing conditions benefits all of us. Innovation and forward thinking are often required not just to solve today’s problems, but to be prepared for what issues will arise in the years ahead. Arborjet | Ecologel has long been committed to coming up with solutions that will benefit the industry and our customers.
We want to share our thoughts on these aspect of the industry at TCI Expo in November. Come see us at the expo at Booth 2807 to continue the discussion!
