Paul Putman, TREE Fund and Russell Evans, CTSP, Saluting Branches
The arboriculture industry’s impact extends far beyond tree care operations. In this engaging discussion, representatives from TREE Fund and Saluting Branches will share how industry professionals are making meaningful contributions through fundraising, public outreach, volunteerism, and service.
Attendees will learn about TREE Fund’s annual Tour des Trees bicycle ride, which raises critical funds for arboriculture research while increasing public awareness of the value and importance of healthy urban forests. The session will also highlight the Saluting Branches Day of Service, a nationwide volunteer effort that mobilizes arborists and industry partners to provide tree and landscape care at veteran cemeteries and memorial sites.
Attendees will discover how these initiatives strengthen communities, elevate the profession’s visibility, create meaningful networking opportunities, and provide rewarding ways for individuals and organizations to give back. Participants will leave with practical ideas for getting involved and supporting industry-wide efforts that make a lasting impact.
Speaker Bio:
Evans, Russell, CTSP – Saluting Branches and Southern California Edison
Russ Evans serves on the Saluting Branches board of directors and is an active member of the organization’s outreach committee, helping expand awareness and engagement for the annual Day of Service honoring our nation’s veterans.
Evans is a utility arborist, specialist with Southern California Edison (SCE) and has spent the past seven years working in the utility arboriculture industry. His work focuses on vegetation management, safety, and maintaining reliable utility infrastructure while supporting environmental stewardship.
Before entering the arboriculture field, Evans served over 13 years (1999-2012) in the United States Marine Corps as an Infantry Marine, where he developed the leadership, discipline, and commitment to service that continue to guide his professional and volunteer efforts today.
Evans holds several respected industry credentials, including TCIA Tree Care Specialist, TCIA Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP), ISA Certified Arborist, ISA Certified Utility Specialist, and the ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ).
Putman, Paul – TREEFund
Dr. Paul Putman joined (TREE) Fund in 2023 as President & CEO and has now ridden the Tour des Trees four times. He is proof that anyone that would like to participate in the ride is welcome and supported! He believes the connections made during the ride will last a lifetime. Join him along with other Tour riders and learn more about why the Tour des Trees is such a great experience.