Demopolis city horticulturist Barbara Blevins recently became a certified arborist through the International Society of Arboriculture.

Blevins, of Forkland, completed the certification program in July. The purpose of the program is to improve the level of knowledge and standard of practice within the tree care profession.

“It really means a lot to me to be certified,” Blevins said. “I’ve been here six years, and Ben Sherrod has really pushed me to become certified.”

With the new certification, Blevins said she can be more confident in cutting and pruning, and that she is doing it correctly.

She added that she is also working on getting two people that she works with trained so they can also become certified.

The ISA is a scientific and educational organization devoted to the dissemination of information in the care and preservation of shade and ornamental trees.

The certification program is designed to promote the professional development of those involved in the field of arboriculture or tree care.