Work with us

We’ve been caring for trees in Thunder Bay since 2005 with a great track record for safety and results. We have a staff of 10 arborists and apprentice arborists, and a culture of enjoying our profession, having fun and taking pride in our work.

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We take pride in more than our work:

  • Great service & happy clients
  • Enjoyable work environment & happy staff
  • Safe work
  • Pride in our craft
  • Always growing
  • Positive relationships
  • Environmentally sustainable
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Contact Us

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Book site visit appointment

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Get a quote

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We'll schedule you in

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Get the job done

Our team

Tim Nosworthy Arborist

Tim is a graduate of Lakehead University’s forestry program and has been a practicing arborist for well over a decade.  He know the city’s trees intimately and has vast experience and insight into how we can help them grow as best as possible.

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Our team

Mike Davis Lead Arborist

Mike has been a team member of RUF since we started.  He is certainly the best and most experienced tree climber in Thunder Bay and is the source of knowledge sharing for all our arborists and apprentices.

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Our team

Vince Rutter Founder, Arborist

The founder of the company, Vince has been working as an arborist since he graduated from Forestry at LU in 2000.  His vision and leadership have brought the company to the place it is today.

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Our team

Liam O'Connor Arborist

Liam has been practicing as an arborist for several years now. His passion for trees is obvious when you meet him.

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Testimonials

A few words from our clients.

Chelsea

“From the quote process, to tree removal, and finally stump grinding, their service is excellent! Safety is clearly a priority when they work, and they were very efficient and tidy! If I had more trees to cut down, I wouldn’t hesitate to hire them again!”

Eric

“If you’re looking for expert, honest advice and fair rates about tree care, this is the place. It’s clear that the RUF staff is passionate and knowledgeable about their work, safety, and service.”

Mitch

“Quick to respond, quote, and complete the job. Had them remove a tree that was growing into my deck and fence, came in and out without a trace, other than the tree being gone!”

Verna

“We have had Rutter Urban Forestry remove 3 trees recently. Each time the crews were friendly and efficient. They clean up when finished. Nice to see lots of safety equipment being used. Great service. Will be using them again.”

Frank

“I received quick service at a good price. RUF removed 2 trees, 5 stumps, and trimmed a cedar hedge that I didn’t think could be saved after being damaged this winter. My yard and hedge looks great.”

Martha

“They came to look at our tree the same day we called. Super friendly and professional. Thanks for saving our shed from that looming poplar.”

Frequently asked questions

Do you do free estimates?

Yes!  There is no cost for us to come to your location, discuss your trees, define a scope of work and offer a quote.  If you’re just looking for information and don’t have an intent to hire anyone to work on your trees, we offer consultations for a nominal fee.

Do you do pest treatments?

Yes!  We offer a selection of sprays and trunk injections to target a few notorious pests.  We use pesticides when tree health is at risk, otherwise we prefer to employ other treatments like crown thinning or fertilizer injections.  We can diagnose common pest problems easily

Do you do pruning?

Yes!!  We like pruning the best because the tree gets to live!  Our pruning treatments vary depending on the needs of the tree and the needs of the client.  We would talk with you on site to determine the best course of action.  See above “Do you do free estimates?”

Are your employees certified arborists?

Our staff are all either certified arborists or working towards their certification as an apprentice.  We prefer certification through the Ontario College of Trades rather than the International Society of Arboriculture.

Are your staff kind, knowledgeable and professional?

The most kind, knowledgeable and professional staff that you’ll ever meet!

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