RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Borrowed Credentials and Surrogate Professional Societies: A Critical Analysis of the Urban Forestry Profession JF Arboriculture & Urban Forestry (AUF) FD International Society of Arboriculture SP 107 OP 136 DO 10.48044/jauf.2023.009 VO 49 IS 3 A1 Keith O’Herrin A1 Corinne G. Bassett A1 Susan D. Day A1 Paul D. Ries A1 P. Eric Wiseman YR 2023 UL http://auf.isa-arbor.com/content/49/3/107.abstract AB Background Urban forestry is an emerging profession, yet its professional identity is not clearly defined, nor does it have the full complement of support mechanisms commonly expected or needed by professionals. As a result, urban forest professionals rely on closely allied professions (e.g., arboriculture, forestry) resulting in frustration amongst urban forest professionals and confusion and lack of awareness amongst the general public.Methods We developed a series of practical but ideal benchmarks for a successful “modern profession” based on features extracted from a review of the literature and precedents from 11 other professions. We then examined a broad array of evidence to identify gaps between the benchmarks and the current reality of urban forestry. Strength of evidence was assessed, and each benchmark was classified as being supported by established, emerging, or little to no evidence.Results Gap analysis indicates that while the profession provides an essential service to society, there is a need for improvement in credentialing, public awareness, recruitment into the profession, and support for career advancement. Many gaps result from a lack of coordinated efforts or organized community dedicated to the full scope of urban forest professionals. We identified a misalignment between urban forest professionals and existing professional organizations that are dedicated to closely allied professions.Conclusion To meet benchmarks for a successful “modern profession,” urban forestry needs professional support explicitly dedicated to urban forestry. The profession cannot meet the future needs of society supported only by borrowed credentials and surrogate professional organizations.