Company History

Before there was Buena Vista Arbor Care Company and before there was a man who became a two-time Pacific Northwest Tree Climbing Champion, there were Richard Holmes and Craig Paulson – two legendary arborists. Through their careers they earned the respect of hundreds of students in the Albany and Corvallis area.

 

Vernon started studying horticulture in 1988, the first person to attend college in his family. During his studies at Linn-Benton CC and Oregon State University he met professor Greg Paulson. Mr. Paulson’s infectious passion for horticulture rubbed off on his student. A life-long relationship was born.

 

It didn’t take long until Vernon found himself hundreds of feet up in the canopy of trees. Richard Homes, owner of Holmes Tree Preservation of Corvallis, saw potential in Vernon, even though he was very tall and lanky – not the typical physique of a world class tree climber.

 

Mr. Holmes gave Vernon a job and worked with him side by side for several years. Vernon learned the ethics of running a professional and reputable tree service from Mr. Holmes. It became clear Vernon was meant to be an arborist. While working for Mr. Holmes, Vernon became one of the first students to advance his career by taking the Certified Tree Workers and Certified Arborist Exams administered by the International Society of Arboriculture in association with the Pacific Northwest chapter of the ISA.

 

Vernon’s skills and agility were unmatched by most. He competed to become the World’s Best Tree Climber on ESPN in 1999 in Birmingham, England. Even though he didn’t win first place, he did get to hug Miss Sweden and met climbers from around the world, many of whom would become lifelong friends.

 

When college was over, competing slowed down and after a year of traveling abroad, it was time for Vernon to settle down and continue with his passion for trees. He put his ten years of ongoing education and mentoring into play.

 

In 1995 Vernon bought his first truck, a Ford F350, and three used Huskavarna 1967 chain saws. Then early in 1996 Vernon opened his doors for business. Things were slow at first, but all it took was meeting Vernon, and you knew you were sold. Whether it’s his funny hats, charismatic personality, or his love for his work – you knew you could trust him. Today that same energy is put into the business.

 

Our customers are the most important part of our business.