High Above Portland: A Day in the Life of Arborist Wes Roberts

For Wes Roberts, a typical day at work might mean scaling a 100-foot Douglas fir, carefully removing damaged limbs after a storm, or rushing to clear a tree blocking traffic. That sounds intense, but that's exactly why he loves his job as an arborist for Portland Parks & Recreation's (PP&R) Urban Forestry division. Every day is different, and every task is important.

"I really like that no two days are the same," Wes said. "I never know exactly what I'll be doing or where I'll end up. Basically, I get to move all around the city and help people. That's my kind of job."

Wes joined PP&R after working as a telephone lineman. He didn't plan on becoming an arborist, but one day, he saw someone working high in a tree near his backyard and couldn't help but stare.

"There was a guy probably 130 feet up, dropping limbs and using ropes. It was an adrenaline rush just watching," he remembered. "I was used to climbing at 20 or 30 feet, so I was impressed and I thought, 'Maybe I should try that.'"

Since that moment, Wes hasn't looked back. Today, he plays a vital role in keeping Portland safe and green. His work includes tree pruning, removing hazardous branches, and responding to emergencies like trees fallen across roads, on cars, or blocking sidewalks. It's hard work, and it's necessary - especially in a city like Portland, known for its beautiful and large urban forest.

Wes's role is one of those essential jobs many Portlanders don't think about until they're facing a tree emergency. He's part of a skilled team that responds day or night, in sun, rain, or snow, whenever there's a need.

"We get multiple calls a day," Wes said. "And we're always ready to respond."

Wes feels lucky to do a job he enjoys and that he's proud of. He also feels it's important to have hobbies in life, especially when you work a job that can wear on your body or mind.

"For me, it's music," he said. "And more specifically, it's playing the guitar. That's how I unwind and recharge after a tough day."

Reflecting on his years with Urban Forestry, Wes shared, "Trees are a big part of our city's identity, and keeping them healthy means we're keeping Portland healthy, too. It feels good knowing I'm contributing to that."