Many Sioux Falls residents have questions and concerns about the city’s tree-planting ordinances.
Dakota News Now in Sioux Falls, SD, caught up with Weller Brothers Business Development Manager Luke Wixo to talk about why the city ordinances are in place and how they support tree health and diversity.
Weller Brothers’s “Tree Talk With Sam” series is produced in partnership with Sam Kezar, Board Certified Master Arborist with Aspen Arboriculture Solutions in Sioux Falls, SD.
We all want to have large, beautiful trees on our properties. To accomplish this, you should consider the size of your tree before planting to avoid transplant shock.
Sam is here to tell you how to select the right tree size so that it will thrive for years to come!
Between our team of certified arborists at Weller Brothers and the expertise of our consultant Sam at Aspen Arboriculture Solutions, your trees are in good hands in Sioux Falls, SD!
Did you receive a letter saying that your branches are hanging over the sidewalk or street in Sioux Falls?
You’re not the only one!
Per its annual Project T.R.I.M. (Tree Raising Improvement Methods), the city of Sioux Falls has surveyed north central Sioux Falls for low-hanging branches. If you received a letter stating that a tree or shrub on your property is non-compliant with city ordinance, you have until June 17, 2024, to hire a licensed arborist to prune the branches.
You might think it’s easiest just to let city take care of it – per the letter – at a minimum of $150/hour.
In most cases, Weller Brothers arborists will be significantly cheaper than the city’s rate. Plus, we have an ISA-certified arborist on staff and follow all ANSI safety standards.
Contact us today here or call us at 1-605-351-4748 to schedule your Sioux Falls tree trimming.
When it comes to selecting an arborist in Sioux Falls, industry standards are important. Not all local tree removal companies follow professional industry standards and guidelines for safety, climbing, tree health, and more.
The Weller Brothers arborist team does.
If you were sick, you would seek the care of a medical professional who is well-educated to treat your illness to the highest standards. It should be the same when you are caring for your tree.
You should always opt for a tree care company that has accredited and experienced team members to serve your property. Weller Brothers’ tree care professionals are here to offer you their professional expertise to ensure that you are choosing a tree care company that follows ANSI Safety Standards and has an ISA-certified arborist on their team to oversee all work being done.
Just as in other industries, the tree care industry has ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards for all tree care operations, including safety. This standard was developed by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), and the ANSI-accredited Standards Developing Organization (SDO).
Weller Brothers tree care professional team is committed to providing the highest level of quality that adheres to the accepted industry standards.
Trees are unique all in their own way, which means that all practices cannot be applied to all trees. Tree care decisions must be made carefully with supporting input from a qualified ISA Certified Arborist.
It is important to protect yourself and your property by hiring a tree care professional for dangerous jobs. It is equally important to protect your investment in your trees by asking these five important questions.
As you consider safety standards and questions to ask before hiring an arborist company, why should you find a company with an ISA-Certified Arborist?
In order to obtain an ISA Certification, arborists must complete a defined curriculum, work experience, and exam. To remain certified through the ISA, an arborist must complete a required number of continuing education courses in the time of their three-year certification period or re-take the ISA certification exam.
This means that your ISA Certified Arborist will remain knowledgeable in the industry standards and be better prepared to take care of trees that are on your property.
Weller Brothers tree removal and health team includes an ISA-certified arborist and arborist crews that follow all ANSI Z133 safety guidelines in Sioux Falls, SD, and surrounding communities.
Our experienced tree removal and health team will ensure that your trees and property are taken care of to the highest standards of arboriculture.
Contact us here to request tree removal and health care services.
National Youth Apprenticeship Week is a nationwide celebration that highlights the benefits and value of the Registered Apprenticeship program opportunities for youth, ages 16-24.
In the Fall of 2022, the Harrisburg School District launched a Registered Youth Apprenticeship Program through a grant funded by StartTodaySD, by offering students a hands-on landscape apprenticeship program for students.
We are honored to be an industry supporter alongside Southeast Technical College, the Harrisburg Economic Development Corporation, and many others.
On May 9, during National Youth Apprenticeship Week, Weller Brothers welcomed our first three apprentices to the team to begin completing their apprenticeship, which will take place over the summer of their high school careers.
After the apprenticeship program is completed they will earn a National Occupation Credential – Landscape Management and Horticulture Technician. This credential is recognized by all 50 states and seen as similar to the work/experience as that of an associate’s degree program.
Each apprentice will dedicate their time to Weller Brothers and jumpstart their education, as well as open doors to career opportunities within the landscaping industry. Our main goal through this program is to educate youth through hands-on and real-world learning to build a pipeline of qualified industry team members.
Design by
Imagine it’s a crisp Friday night in Ames. You’re snuggled by your backyard fireplace; the flames rivaling the roar of passionate Cyclone fans echoing through Jack Trice Stadium just down the road.
That’s exactly what these Cyclone fans were dreaming of when they came to Weller Brothers with a vision for a cozy and inviting outdoor area to host pre- and post-game festivities.
Our Iowa landscaping team created this outdoor living space with the mantel-style fireplace as the main focal point. Brick pavers complemented and extended the existing outdoor seating area. The custom-built pergola provides shade throughout while allowing enjoyment of the natural elements.
For added privacy along the outskirts of the new patio area, landscape beds feature greenery and small trees.
Designed
Weller Brothers’s “Tree Talk With Sam” series is produced in partnership with Sam Kezar, Board Certified Master Arborist with Aspen Arboriculture Solutions in Sioux Falls, SD.
Diseases on trees are difficult to identify and determine if they are harmful to your tree. Apple scab specifically creates an eye-sore of your Midwest crabapple and fruit trees!
Sam is here to tell you how to identify apple scab and what you should do next to treat your tree.
Between our team of certified arborists at Weller Brothers and the expertise of our consultant Sam at Aspen Arboriculture Solutions, your trees are in good hands in Sioux Falls, SD!
Weller Brothers’s “Tree Talk With Sam” series is produced in partnership with Sam Kezar, Board Certified Master Arborist with Aspen Arboriculture Solutions in Sioux Falls, SD.
We’re thrilled that you want to plant a tree. There are so many great reasons to do so!
These days, you can buy a tree at nearly any grocery or home store. But buying a tree from a nursery or garden center is best.
Why? Sam is here to tell you!
Between our team of certified arborists at Weller Brothers and the expertise of our consultant Sam at Aspen Arboriculture Solutions, your trees are in good hands in Sioux Falls, SD!
When it comes to landscape industry careers in the Midwest, there are many different options. This is a region where people truly value the outdoors and want their outdoor spaces to serve them aesthetically and functionally.
While many different jobs in landscaping are available, choosing one that fits your skill set, experience, and interests is an important task.
Weller Brothers is always hiring great people to work with, and we believe everyone can be someone at Weller Brothers.
We have two primary landscaping career pathways: landscaping and lawn/tree maintenance services. Each position has a career pathway map that will outline the possibilities for promotion throughout your career. No one wants to stay stagnant at their job, which is why we almost always promote from within at Weller Brothers.
Landscape designers sell, design, and oversee the execution of landscaping projects. Landscape design could be an excellent career choice for individuals with artistic skills and a strong attention to detail. Each of our designers possesses a passion for creating beautiful outdoor spaces to enjoy life’s best moments.
“As a landscape designer, my advice to anyone that is wanting to become a landscape designer is to spend as much time in nature as possible and do not be afraid to get your hands dirty. Find a part-time job or a mentor that is involved in gardening, landscaping, horticulture, construction, or an engineering discipline.”
For this role, candidates must have a degree in landscape design or landscape architecture. A significant understanding of local horticulture is crucial for integrating plants that thrive within the designated area. All Weller Brothers, landscape designers uphold our commitment to excellence by proactively completing projects promptly and within specified budgets.
Landscape foremen execute the construction of designs created by landscape designers. They manage their crew members, oversee day-to-day job site operations, manage and train crew members, and communicate professionally with customers.
“Before being at Weller Brothers, I attended South East Technical College in their landscaping program, and I learned even more when I was on a job site with my mentors. I would recommend finding someone who can teach you and help you learn everything you can from them if you are looking for a position in landscaping.”
We prefer to hire those with a degree in horticulture or with construction experience, however, we have opportunities for entry-level positions to gain the necessary experience needed to become a landscape foreman. Through our Fast Track Foreman program, you will receive on-the-job experience as you advance through the program. This is a great opportunity for someone who is looking to change their career path and enter the landscape industry with minimal experience.
Lawn maintenance foremen are responsible for the lawn care and maintenance of our clients’ properties. They manage their crew members, oversee day-to-day job site operations, and communicate professionally with clients.
“I never expected the opportunities that the Foreman Fast Track program would give me to advance professionally while on the job. I gained confidence in overseeing projects and leading a team. Three years ago, I joined Weller Brothers as a Lawn Maintenance Technician and am now a Lead Lawn Maintenance Foreman. ”
We prefer to hire those with a degree in turf managment or with construction experience, however, we have opportunities for entry-level positions to gain the necessary experience needed to become a lawn maintenace foreman. Through our Fast Track Foreman program, you will receive on-the-job experience as you advance through the program. This is a great opportunity for someone who is looking to change their career path and enter the landscape industry with minimal experience.
Lawn Maintenance Account Managers retain and sell maintenance contracts, which can involve upselling plant and tree health care, landscape enhancements, or snow removal services. Additionally, each account manager ensures that the property meets or exceeds the client’s expectations of quality and appearance.
“Although the role of an account manager is sales-oriented, it is just as much or more about building a strong relationship with the client through professionalism, trust, and ongoing communication. People do business with people that they know, like, and trust.”
Each lawn maintenance account manager must independently work with little direction while effectively and efficiently communicating with their clients. Preferably, candidates should have one year of experience in the landscaping industry or equivalent education. Proficient skills in computer applications such as LMN, GIS, or other relevant applications are required to create, track, and pursue proposals.
Irrigation specialists install, test, and troubleshoot new underground sprinkler systems. They also have the main responsibility of adapting and performing other irrigation-related duties as needed, such as system startups, checks, and winterizations.
“As an irrigation specialist, my biggest advice would be to always be willing to learn and work hard. This type of job requires on-the-job training and experience, so be patient as you move up the ladder to this position.”
It takes special training and experience to become an irrigation specialist. At Weller Brothers, we prefer to hire those with experience, but are happy to train motivated individuals who’d like to become specialized.
Fertilizer specialists maintain and apply fertilizers and chemicals to lawns, landscape plants, and trees. They identify and diagnose turf and landscape plant issues and diseases, recommending treatments and repairs as needed to customers. This position demands the ability to manage a crew by tracking a daily route, holding teammates accountable, and communicating professionally with customers.
“I enjoy my job as a fertilizer specialist because it continues to challenge me. I think that my turf management degree from Southeast Technical College was vital to the success I have found at Weller Brothers. Anyone interested in a career in fertilizer application should consider whether they are a self-motivated person who is always willing to learn.”
A fertilizer specialist must possess their applicator license for the respective state they work in, along with experience in fertilizer and chemical applications in the field. They need significant experience operating common irrigation equipment, a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and the ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card.
The horticulture specialist actively grows, maintains, and takes care of all types of plants and landscapes in a variety of settings. A large part of this role involves actively providing excellent customer service by promptly and courteously assisting customers, answering questions, and providing information as needed.
“As someone who does not have a formal educational background in horticulture, I would highly recommend taking every opportunity to learn. Weller Brothers has been a great place for me to grow my plant knowledge as well as my professional experience. I joined the team as a horticulture specialist and am now the lead horticulture specialist, leading a team of six people. Take every opportunity you are given.”
We prefer candidates with a degree in horticulture, along with one year of experience in the related field. Proficient skills in computer applications such as LMN or other relevant applications are necessary to effectively track job times and process accounts.
A tree care specialist or arborist plants, treats, and removes trees. They also help determine the viability of trees in a landscape design for a particular area. Arborists understand their obligation to preserve the significant value that trees may contribute to life and property.
“Tree removal can be a very dangerous job, which is why I always recommend furthering your education to know how to properly use all of the tools. There are different types of certifications to become an arborist, which are also very important to get depending on the jobs that you will be doing.”
We prefer one year of experience, and tree and plant ID. Our tree team also takes additional training and education, such as Electrical Hazard Awareness Training or Qualified Line Clearance Arborists. Maintaining and obtaining a state-specific applicator license is required to perform applicable tree health treatments.
In addition to many different career pathways, we offer a variety of different educational experiences to gain comprehensive real-world experience in the landscaping industry. In each of our three locations, there are seasonal internship opportunities available for college students who are pursuing a degree in a respective industry.
By the end of the experience, you’ll understand the inner workings of a large design/build/maintain landscaping company and have clarity on your career path.
The landscape, lawn, and tree care professionals at Weller Brothers in Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN and Des Moines, IA are always looking to hire great people to work with. If you are looking to join a team that will help you grow professionally, in a team culture with competitive wages, look no further.
Weller Brothers’s “Tree Talk With Sam” series is produced in partnership with Sam Kezar, Board Certified Master Arborist with Aspen Arboriculture Solutions in Sioux Falls, SD.
Though pruning increases a tree’s aesthetic qualities, each time a tree is pruned, it creates a “prune wound.”
Creating a pruning plan with a licensed arborist can help you identify what branches to remove and why they should be removed. You can never improve the health of a tree by pruning it. So, do you really need to prune your tree?
Let’s find out from Sam!
Between our team of certified arborists at Weller Brothers and the expertise of our consultant Sam at Aspen Arboriculture Solutions, your trees are in good hands in Sioux Falls, SD!