A West Virginia University scholar is climbing higher as an urban forester. Gregory Dahle, an assistant professor in WVU’s Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design, has received the Early-Career Scientist Award from the International Society of Arboriculture.

At WVU, Dahle’s most recent research focuses on tree biomechanics and risk assessment.

“Greg has made important contributions to many projects, including being part of the Tree Biomechanics Symposium,” said Mark Roberts, ISA board member. “His work helps strengthen arborists’ ability as tree risk assessors now and in the future.”

“I feel my research in tree risk assessment is impactful because it is important for arborists to find a reason to save a tree rather than condemn it,” Dahle said. “A commitment to students is also critical to the profession. I learned from my mentors that caring for students is the best thing a professor can do to encourage them.”

A Board Certified Master Arborist� and ISA member, Dahle advocates for the future of arboriculture by promoting student involvement in the organization and mentoring students who are planning a career in urban forestry. He recently worked with students to found WVU’s Student Arboriculture and Urban Forestry Club. He combines research with teaching arboriculture and urban forest management courses.

Like many of his students at WVU, Dahle’s professional interests changed over the course of his studies. His initial career interest in wildlife management took a significant turn when he joined the Davey Resource Group as a project coordinator and discovered arboriculture.

Seeking further education, Dahle received an M.S. in Arboriculture and Urban Forestry at Purdue University in 2004 and was a member of the inaugural class of Board Certified Master Arborists. In 2009, he earned a Ph.D. in Ecology and Evolution at Rutgers University. He joined WVU’s faculty in 2011.

ISA, with more than 20,000 members making up ISA’s organization worldwide, has been honoring members and industry professionals with the Awards of Distinction since 1963. Nine categories recognize candidates in such areas as research, publishing, education, and advancing the cause of the organization. The winners are selected by a diverse group of experts in arboriculture.

-WVU-

dw/08/17/15

CONTACT: David Welsh, Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Design
304.293.2394, David.Welsh@mail.wvu.edu

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