Dawn’s desire to work with trees and her community started early in life with tree climbing in her yard and Girl Scouts, and it continued through her high school years. She was named Ms. Clawson in 1993 due to her excellence in athletics, academics, community service, and public speaking.

In 2008, after completing her plant health care apprenticeship, and while working as a diagnostic technician at the Michigan State University plant and pest help desk, Dawn was inspired to create her own arbor care business to help tree owners with their landscapes. She felt called to bring hands-on love and science to urban trees and communities.

The purpose of Urban Arbor Care’s work is to establish and nurture healthy urban landscapes integrated with native plants and organic edible fruit. The right tree in the right place gives back, adding value from the moment it is planted.  Dawn believes that we can contribute to the greater health and vitality of our society simply by planting or caring for an urban tree in our own backyards.