Safe Arborist Techniques Fund (SATF)
Funds research to improve arborist safety through better techniques, equipment, and understanding of risks in tree care operations.
Funder: Tree Research and Education Endowment Fund
Due Dates: September 15, 2026 (Letter of Intent) | October 1, 2026 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $15,000 per award; projects must be completed within two years.
Summary: Supports research to improve safety techniques, equipment, and practices for arborists, with a focus on worker safety and biomechanics.
Key Information: LOI approval required before full application; no grants to individuals.
Description
The Safe Arborist Techniques Fund (SATF) is a joint initiative of the Tree Research and Education Endowment Fund (TREE Fund) and the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Established in 2015, this program funds original research aimed at improving the safety of arboricultural operations. Supported projects focus on developing safer techniques and equipment for climbing, rigging, and working on trees, as well as identifying and mitigating potential hazards. Research areas include, but are not limited to, worker safety, biomechanics, tree failure mechanisms, decay assessment, mechanical pruning, lightning protection, support systems, and machine-aided climbing. Both qualitative and quantitative proposals from a wide range of academic and technical disciplines are welcome, provided they advance knowledge and practices that protect workers, residents, and property during arboricultural activities.
