The seven-module Massachusetts Qualified Tree Warden (MQTW) training course is held every other year; the next class is scheduled for Fall 2025. It is designed to educate tree wardens about what they need to know to fulfill their duties. Those who successfully complete the course receive the Massachusetts Qualified Tree Warden (MQTW) designation and certificate of achievement. Below is a list of frequently asked questions and a session-by-session course outline.
FAQs
This seven-module course is designed to teach tree wardens what they need to know to fulfill their duties. Below is a list of questions you may have. Please email us if you need further information.
Course Outline (specifics are subject to change)
All sessions will take place from 8:30 am – 3:00 pm in Newton, MA. Pre-registration for entire course is required.
Session One
September 4, 2025
UMass - Mount Ida Campus
What it Means to be a Tree Warden
- Facilitated discussion with attendees about who they are and why they are in the class
- Presentation from a Tree Warden on what it means to be a tree warden and what they do.
- Introduction and Review of Massachusetts Tree Laws
- Facilitated discussion about trees and the law, and related topics.
Session Two
September 18, 2025
UMass - Mount Ida Campus
Knowing and Assessing Trees
- Introduction to tree growth
- Tree defects and likelihood of failure
- Diagnosing and managing insects and diseases
- How to identify trees.
Session Three
October 2, 2025
UMass - Mount Ida Campus
Planting and Caring for Trees
- Tree Pruning Basics
- Topics on proper tree planting
- Field sessions. Proper Tree Planting and Tree Pruning Basics
Session Four
October 16, 2025
UMass - Mount Ida Campus
Managing Municipal Trees and Associated Risk
- Urban Tree Problems and Risk Implications
- Municipal Tree Risk Management
- Contracting Tree Services
- Managing Storm Response and Emergencies
- Working with Utility Arborists
Session Five
October 30, 2025
UMass - Mount Ida Campus
Assessing, Evaluating and Inventorying Trees
- Tree Inventory Basics
- Managing Tree Data
- Field sessions. Tree ID and Tree Evaluation
Session Six
November 13, 2025
UMass - Mount Ida Campus
Construction and Design Impacts to Trees
- Construction Zone Management
- Public construction and trees
- Working with Mass DOT
- Community Bylaws and Ordinances
Session Seven
December 4, 2025
UMass - Mount Ida Campus
Communtiy Forestry and Wrap
Up
- Developing and advocating for resources
- Working with Mass DCR and Grants
- Community Tree Board and Advocacy Groups
- Tree Wardens working in their Communities - Panel Discussion
MTWFA’s educational programs are made possible through a grant from the USDA Forest Service, Urban and Community Forestry Program and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Bureau of Forestry.
If attending the MQTW course is a financial burden, the USDA Forest Service through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Urban and Community Forestry Program has provided grant dollars to support workshop registration. Please contact staff@masstreewardens.org for more information.