FLORENCE-The City of Florence Tree Commission and the Florence Beautification Board proudly host the 29th Annual Urban Forestry and Horticulture Conference on Friday, March 6, 2026. Information presented by experts on how healthy landscapes enhance quality of life, aesthetics, and biodiversity in the urban setting will benefit homeowners, businesses, and all who enjoy nature. The Pesticide Recertification Class on Thursday, March 5, for professionals, including arborists, horticulturists, and landscapers, offers continuing education units. These CEUs are also available to professionals who register to attend the conference on Friday, March 6.
Location (Both Days): Cross Point Church of Christ, 1350 Cox Creek Parkway, Florence, Alabama
Registration Options: Participants may register for one or both days.
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Pesticide Recertification Class
Online Registration: $50
Late / Day-of: $55
Friday, March 6, 2026
Urban Forestry & Horticulture Conference
Online Registration: $50
Late / Day-of: $55
Two-Day Package (March 5–6, 2026)
Pesticide Class + Conference
Online Registration: $80
Late / Day-of: $85
Registration includes lunch and snacks on each day attended.
Mail-In Registration. To skip online processing fees and pay by cash or check, download and mail the printable form: Mail-in form
On-site Registration will also be available at the door (late registration rates apply).
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Pesticide Recertification Class: This all-day training is designed for licensed professionals seeking required pesticide recertification.
Time: Sign-in & late Registration: 8:00 a.m.
Class: 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
What’s Included
- Required pesticide recertification training
- ISA CEUs (number TBD)
- Board of Registration for Foresters CEUs (number TBD)
- Lunch and snacks
Hosted by: City of Florence Tree Commission
Attendees may also earn additional CEUs by attending the conference on Friday.
Friday, March 6, 2026
Urban Forestry & Horticulture Conference: A full day of speakers, networking, and professional training focused on building healthier, more resilient communities through urban forestry and horticulture.
Time Sign-in: 8:00 a.m., Conference: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
What to Expect
- Expert guest speakers from across the Southeast
- Topics covering urban forests, native plants, biodiversity, and community quality of life
- Local vendor displays
- Lunch provided by Café 222 at noon
- Door prize drawings at 12:00 p.m. and 3:45 p.m.
Urban Forestry & Horticulture Conference Schedule
8:00 a.m.: Sign-In, View Displays, Coffee & Doughnuts
8:45 a.m.: Welcome, Mayor Ron Tyler, introduced by the Florence Tree Commission and Beautification Board Chairs
9:00 a.m.: Jennings Earnest: “Enjoying Nature Through Outdoor Experiences.”
10:00 a.m.: Katie Wiswall, “Healthy Trees, Healthy Lives.”
12:00 p.m.: Lunch, First Door Prize Drawing, Book Signing with Dr. Scot Duncan
1:00 p.m.: David West: “Tree Selection Considerations: 10 Native Tree Selections That May Fit Your Needs”
2:00 p.m.: Scot Duncan, “Gardening for Birds, Bugs and Biodiversity (And Why It Matters).”
3:00 p.m.: Charles Yeager, “Renewal of Urban Forests Through Stewardship and Disturbance.”
3:50 p.m.: Second Door Prize Drawing, Dogwood Seedling Giveaway
4:00 p.m.: Adjourn
Questions or Assistance:
Sydni Alexander, 256-760-6407, salexander2@florenceal.org
Media Release/Rachel Mansell/City of Florence
