Learn About Clemson University's  Arboriculture Course in 
England

2003

An International Study Opportunity

The History, Culture & 
Implementation of UK Planning Law, Tree Protection & Arboricultural Practice

June 7 - July 6, 2003

Urban Sprawl.  Smart Growth.  Sustainable Development.  Words that we see almost daily as development in the US hurdles forward in our booming economy.  But, are we adequately addressing our urban natural resources, and specifically our tree resources, as urban development increases dramatically?  

Does the US know best?  Can we learn from other countries and cultures?  Clemson University offers a unique opportunity for students and professionals interested in urban forestry, arboriculture, horticulture, and urban planning to study and experience, first-hand, the British approach and regulations for urban tree protection in the planning and development process.  The course at Myerscough College, north of Liverpool, will incorporate lectures from faculty and expert practitioners, field tours, and individual projects to provide participants an in-depth understanding of the British system and ideas that could be utilized in the US, while earning four semester hours of credit or twenty continuing education units in the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist program.

Background: Britain has one of the most advanced and dynamic planning systems in Europe.  It has evolved from Victorian Times, through the post war Royal Commissions, to the point where it is now regulated by the 1990 Town & Country Planning Act.

An integral part of the planning system is the importance of "amenity" and more specifically, "visual amenity." Trees play a major role in this aspect.  Interestingly, though trees are not defined anywhere in English law, many Acts of Parliament and common law decisions affect the protection and preservation of trees.  In fact a special section of the 1990 Act not only empowers municipalities to protect trees but also places a "statutory duty" upon them to do so.  Awareness of trees among the public is now such that it has led to the development of the community forests and to the central role of trees in the planning and development process.

The Course: This program, offered to Clemson University students as APEC 490, Section 140, will be delivered over four weeks and will involve lectures, discussions, essays, and debates combined with site visits.  Some of the lectures will be given by experts in the field within the UK.  Presently known participants include Dr. Dealga O'Callaghan and Dr. Mark Johnston, Myerscough College and Mr. Michael Lawson and Mr. Les Round, O'Callaghan, Associates.  Dr. Donald Ham, Clemson University, will compare and contrast the British approach with practices in the US. 

Cost: Course costs, including instructional cost abroad, five weeks of lodging and meals, and transportation during the course will be $1,600 plus appropriate tuition for Clemson students and $1,850 plus tuition (if applicable) at home university for non-Clemson students.  Air fare will likely range between $600 and $800.

Travel Grant: Clemson students may apply for a travel grant to help defray costs for this course.  Please contact Dr. John Surak, 224 P&AS Bldg., phone 864.656.2786; email jsurak@clemson.edu immediately if considering registering for this course. 

For Further Course Information: Please contact Dr. Donald Ham, 272C Lehotsky Hall, phone 864.656.2480; email dham@clemson.edu immediately if considering registering for this course or if you desire more information.