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Dawn Hughes | Dawn in the Forest
Dawn Hughes is a Master Arborist specializing in holistic and organic care of trees from soil to canopy; root pruning and rejuvenation of stressed trees; and fruit tree rejuvenation with pruning and care. For 20+ twenty years, Dawn has worked in many different facets of the green industry. She is a mentor and trainer of aspiring arborists and gardeners of all ages, with a special focus on mentoring and supporting other women in the arboriculture industry. Her professional credentials include:
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Cornell University, certification Women's Entrepreneurship 2025
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​Emeritus EMG (Extension Master Gardener) Michigan State University 2020
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MAEAP, USDA Environmentally Verified Cropping System & Forest and Wetland Habitat 2023.
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Michigan Certified Green Industry Professional (CGIP) Retired
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Michigan Licensed and Certified Pesticide Applicator Categories 1C, 3A, 3B, 5, 6 (fruit crop, turf, ornamental plants, aquatics, right of way) #C007080372
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Associates Degrees in Applied Science Landscape Horticulture, and Small Business Management - Oakland Community College Summa cum laude.
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Dawn’s desire to work with trees and her community started early in life with tree climbing in her yard and Girl Scouts, and it continued through her high school years. She was named Ms. Clawson in 1993 due to her excellence in athletics, academics, community service, and public speaking.
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In 2008, after completing her plant health care apprenticeship, and while working as a diagnostic technician at the Michigan State University plant and pest help desk, Dawn was inspired to create her own arbor care business to help tree owners with their landscapes. She felt called to bring hands-on love and science to urban trees and communities.
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The purpose of Urban Arbor Care’s work is to establish and nurture healthy urban landscapes integrated with native plants and organic edible fruit. The right tree in the right place gives back, adding value from the moment it is planted. Dawn believes that we can contribute to the greater health and vitality of our society simply by planting or caring for an urban tree in our own backyards.
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