The Utility Arborist Association (UAA) said yesterday that it is pleased to welcome Dennis Fallon as UAA Executive Director. Fallon, of Ham Lake, Minnesota, will begin his new position on August 5, 2021.
“We are excited to work with Dennis on growing UAA’s member services, developing relationships both within and outside of our immediate industry, and raising general awareness of UAA and the importance of our organization,” says Paul Hurysz, UAA president. “His experience is key to the plans we have in place to integrate and expand our offerings.”
Deep industry experience
Fallon is a Master Forester, Utility Arborist and was most recently responsible for leading vegetation management programs across several upper Midwest states on behalf of Xcel Energy. He’s also an adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where he facilitates the Utility Vegetation Management Certificate Program — a combined effort of the Utility Arborist Association and the Utility Vegetation Management Association. Fallon has an undergraduate degree in Urban & Community Forestry and a Master’s degree in Forestry both from the University of Minnesota-St. Paul. He’s an Eagle Scout who has also been honored with several additional prestigious awards from Scouts BSA, (The Boy Scouts of America).
“This is an exciting time to take on the UAA leadership role and I can’t wait to get started,” says Fallon. “With education and research becoming more formalized, the UAA is well-positioned to lead and be considered an archive for educational resources. I believe this will drive the industry toward sustainable practices that are socially and environmentally responsible.”
Saying goodbye
Fallon succeeds outgoing Executive Director Phil Charlton, who announced his planned retirement in January this year. Charlton served 10 years as UAA leader and more than 40 years in utility vegetation management. He oversaw and implemented the transition for UAA to separate from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Since that time, the UAA has more than doubled its membership numbers and tripled in financial resources. Charlton plans to remain active with the industry through his consulting practice and volunteering.
