VALDOSTA — Open since 1997 is a business that guarantees to trim down on the local competition.

Cunningham Tree Service is a licensed and insured residential company that specializes in tree removal, stump grinding, and a variety of outside services.

Located at 1289 Old Clyattville Road near the Langdale Saw Mill, owner Duane Cunningham Sr. said that he is the only certified arborist with a residential company in the Valdosta area.

Certified arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through experience and by passing a comprehensive examination developed by some of the nation’s leading experts on tree care, according to the International Society of Arboriculture.

“I had been working for a tree company since the age of 18 and decided to venture out on my own,” said Cunningham, when asked what led to him opening his own business. “In 1997, when I started, there was only one employee. Now we have over 20 employees, part time and full time.”

Cunningham’s services are available for both individual homeowners and businesses.

“What I enjoy most about my work is being outside and the people,” said Cunningham.

Hurricane and tornado seasons are the busiest times for business, but Cunningham Tree Service works year round. Area residents usually call in regards to dead trees or damage caused by strong winds.

Businesses usually need help with line clearances, as branches or trees often get in the way of power lines during strong winds or growth.

Cunningham’s wife, Teresa, and son, Duane Jr., work with him at Cunningham Tree Service. It’s a family-owned business.



Q: What services do you offer?



A: We offer a variety of services, such as residential work, line clearance for the companies, stump grinding, tree removal, trimming, etc.



Q: What are your prices?



A: It really depends on the type of work needed.



Q: What sets your business apart from your competition?



A: I’m the only certified arborist that owns a residential company.



Q: What are your hours of operation?



A: We are usually available Monday through Friday. There are no set times, but we usually work eight to 10 hours a day.



Q: Do you make emergency calls?



A: Definitely. Although, we don’t get those often. It’s mostly when a storm comes through.



Q: Where do you see your business within the next five years?



A: In the next five years? Well, of course, some growth … we plan on expanding in the right-of-way work for businesses. Right-of-way work includes cutting for the utility companies.



Cunningham Tree Service

Location: 1289 Old Clyattville Road, Valdosta

Telephone: (229) 259-0070

Hours: Monday through Friday