ISA Certified Arborist in Dawsonville

Get expert guidance on whether your tree should be pruned, treated, or removed—before making a costly decision.

26+ Years Experience

ISA Board Certified Master Arborist

10,000+ Clients Served

What is an ISA Certified Arborist?

Arborists are tree care professionals that provide services such as tree pruning, removal, and pest management. While arborists often provide excellent services, dedicated professionals often take things a step further and seek official ISA certification.


Becoming an ISA Certified Arborist requires extensive knowledge and comprehensive testing by some of the nation’s leading tree care experts. This certification is obtained through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Certified Arborists must continue their education annually to keep their certification, which guarantees that they are up-to-date on the latest practices of tree care management.


Tim has been an ISA Certified Arborist for the last 25 years. He recently passed an extensive exam to gain his ISA Board Certified Master Arborist credential. Fewer than 2% off all ISA Certified Arborists currently hold this certification which is the highest level of certification offered by ISA.

Work With an ISA Certified Arborist in Your Area

Sam Tree Services provides arborist consultations led by an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist—the highest level of certification in the industry.



This means your trees are evaluated with:

  • advanced training in tree biology and structure
  • professional risk assessment standards
  • species-specific knowledge for North Georgia conditions
  • ongoing continuing education and certification requirements


Not every tree needs to be removed. Not every problem is obvious.


The goal is to help you make the right decision before work begins.

Timothy W. Costley

ISA Board Certified Master Arborist #SO-1925B


ISA Certified Arborist Consultations

An ISA Certified Arborist representing a professional tree service can visually examine trees to determine if they are a potential danger to the property. Knowing what to look for is key to maintaining healthy trees. Often trees must be removed to prevent the spread of disease among other trees in the area. Proper tree and soil maintenance are key factors in maintaining your trees health. A knowledgeable Dawsonville Arborist can examine and give helpful tips on how to maintain your trees throughout the year.

When Should You Call an Arborist?

  • Dead or hanging branches
  • Mushrooms
  • Thin Canopy
  • Leaning tree
  • Cracked or split trunk
  • Storm damage

The Benefits of Hiring an ISA Certified Arborist

Hiring an ISA Certified Arborist comes with a number of benefits. For starters, ISA Certified Arborists have completed extensive training in all aspects of tree care including planting, pruning, fertilization, and pest management. Additionally, certified arborists are required to stay up to date on the latest developments in their field, so you can be confident that they're using the most effective techniques and products available. As a result, you can rest assured that your trees will be in good hands regardless of the situation. Whether you need to remove a dangerous tree or relocate a healthy one, ISA Certified Arborists can provide high-quality services that ensure the health and safety of your trees.

Tree work is execution. Arborist work is decision-making.

Tree Service vs Certified Arborist

Tree Service

  • Focuses on cutting
  • Executes the job
  • Reactive approach
  • Equipment-driven

Certified Arborist

  • Focuses on diagnosis
  • Recommends best solution
  • Preventative approach
  • Knowledge-driven

Why Homeowners Trust Sam Tree Services

Choosing an arborist is about trust, not just availability.

Sam Tree Services is led by:


Timothy W. Costley
ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (#SO-1925B)

Fewer than 2% of certified arborists hold this designation.

With over 26 years in business and more than 10,000 clients served, Sam Tree Services brings:

With over 26 years in business and more than 10,000 clients served,

Sam Tree Services brings:

  • deep experience with North Georgia tree conditions
  • adherence to ANSI and industry safety standards
  • fully insured, professional service
  • local expertise across Dawsonville, Gainesville, Cumming, and surrounding areas


This is not general tree work. This is expert-level evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an ISA certified arborist and a tree service company?

An ISA certified arborist is trained in tree biology, structure, and risk assessment, not just cutting or removal. This allows for better diagnosis and more informed decisions about whether a tree should be pruned, treated, or removed.

What is the best way to choose an arborist in Dawsonville?

The best approach is to look for certification, experience, insurance, and clear recommendations. An arborist should be able to explain what they see, what it means, and what your options are.

When is the best time to hire an ISA certified arborist?

The best time is when you notice early signs of concern such as leaning, dead limbs, canopy changes, or storm damage. Early evaluation helps prevent larger problems and gives you more options.

Can a certified arborist help save a tree instead of removing it?

Yes, in many cases a certified arborist can recommend preservation strategies such as pruning, cabling, or treatment. Removal is only one option and should be based on a proper evaluation.

How do I know if a tree is dangerous?

A tree may be dangerous if it is leaning, has large dead branches, visible cracks, decay at the base, or has been damaged by a storm. A certified arborist can assess the level of risk and recommend the appropriate action.

Request an Arborist Consultation

If you have concerns about a tree on your property, the next step is not guessing.


It is getting a professional evaluation.



Request an arborist consultation to determine whether your tree should be pruned, treated, supported, or removed.