Stewardship of the Urban Landscape
SOUL is a joint initiative between University of Vermont Extension and the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.
Stewardship of the Urban Landscape (SOUL)
Tree Steward Program
Course Registration FAQs
What is a SOUL Tree Steward?
A SOUL Tree Steward is an urban and community forestry advocate. Since 1996 the SOUL Tree Steward Program has been bringing residents together on a regional level to create a local knowledgeable and energized cohort of tree stewards.
How do I become a certified SOUL Tree Steward?
To become a certified SOUL Tree Steward you must successfully complete two tasks:
- The eight-week SOUL Tree Steward Course
- A 20-hour community internship or project, or 20 hours of volunteering to promote and improve Vermont's urban and community trees and forests.
Who should attend the SOUL Tree Steward Course?
The course is open to anyone. No prior knowledge or experience is necessary. The program is aimed at community members interested in improving their town's urban and community forest.
How do I register?
The next course is planned for 2014. Registration information will be added when it is available.
How will I know if I am registered for the training?
Once we have received your complete registration form and registration fee, we will e-mail you to confirm that you are registered for the training. During this time, we will also confirm your Interactive Television site.
What if I miss a session?
Students are strongly encouraged to attend all sessions. However, students are expected to miss no more than 2 sessions, including both Saturday sessions. If you miss a class, you will be expected to purchase a DVD of any missed session. DVDs may be purchased from UVM Extension for $10.
Are the Saturday sessions required?
Due to the hands-on nature of these sessions, past participants have found that the Saturday sessions are one of the most informative and enjoyable parts of the course. The Saturday sessions are not videotaped, so if you must miss a Saturday session, please contact us to discuss how you might make it up.
Are there CEUs available for this training?
We offer ISA credits for the course. In addition, general CEUs are available. Please contact us if you are interested in receiving CEUs for the program.
SOUL Program FAQs
What's the difference between SOUL Tree Stewards and SOUL Alumni?
SOUL Alumni are participants who have successfully completed the 8 week SOUL course. SOUL Tree Stewards are participants who have successfully completed both the 8 week course and 20 hours of volunteer service in urban and community forestry. If you are not sure where you stand as a past participant of the SOUL program, use this simple key to determine your status:
If you ...-
- 1. Graduated from Stewardship of the Urban Landscape (SOUL) Tree Stewards Training before 2007
- You are automatically considered a SOUL Tree Steward
- Graduated from the SOUL program in or after 2007
- Go to #2
-
- 2. Completed a SOUL project
- You are a SOUL Tree Steward
- Did not complete a SOUL project
- Go to #3
-
- 3. Completed a 20 hours of volunteer service
- You are a SOUL Tree Steward
- Did not complete 20 hours of volunteer service in UCF efforts
- You are a SOUL Alumni
Where can I learn about volunteer opportunities and other related educational programs?
All graduates of the SOUL course are automatically signed up for a regional SOUL e-mail listserv. As volunteer opportunities become available they will be posted on the listserv. In addition, we maintain a statewide list of ongoing volunteer opportunities. If you would like assistance finding a volunteer opportunity in your community, please contact us.
Why become a SOUL Tree Steward?
In addition to joining a statewide network of SOUL Tree Stewards, particapants who complete the program requirements may attend advanced SOUL trainings at no charge.
Last modified December 11 2012 03:22 PM