Lively Oak is independently owned and operated by a group of Certified Arborist with a cumulative 25+ years experience and lifelong love of trees. In our Southeast Louisiana work we focus on the particalar needs of local species and nurture a growing obsession with the very particular habits, requirements and vulnerabilities of Southern Live Oaks. While the company has roots in NYC, the company name actually comes from the awe and reverence we felt towards Southern Live Oak when we expanded to serve Baton Rouge.
We offer Tree Care & Consulting Services
Alec Baxt has been an ISA Certified Arborist for over 20 years. He also maintains ISA's Tree Risk Assessment Qualification and is a Certified Climber.
Prior to starting Lively Oak Alec was Staff Arborist for Brooklyn Botanic Garden for nearly a decade. Alec has been on staff at other notable horticultural and agricultural institutions including Prospect Park, New Yorkers for Parks, The Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture and Brooklyn Grange. Particular areas of interest include preservation planning, veteran tree care, fine pruning and teaching. Speaking Engagements include the School of Visual Arts, the Pratt Institute, Biocities conference, New York State Arborists, Farm School NYC.
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Alec splits time between Baton Rouge and NYC, working with residential, commercial and institutional clients, including Brooklyn Bridge Park, The Trust for Governor's Island, Greenthumb, the Mohonk Preserve, Cobble Hill Park, Fort Greene Park and the NYC Department of Forestry.
Alec loves helping people grow their appreciation and understanding of trees, and helping find creative ways for people and trees to coexist in the urban context.
Jake Nager is an ISA Certified Arborist and maintains ISA's Tree Risk Assessment Qualification.
Having studied physics, Jake loves tree biomechanics and the problem solving required for tree work in the city. With a background crafting wood, metal and other materials, Jake also brings a sense of craft and artistry to his treecare.
While Jake is fascinated by the mechanics (and biomechanics) of the work, his primary driver is a love of trees as living beings. He is deeply committed to responsible tree care and fostering a greener urban landscape. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Jake is moved by the importance of urban forestry.
After receiving a Certificate of Horticulture from Brooklyn Botanic Garden and spending time in the private sector, Jake worked full-time as Staff Arborist for Brooklyn Botanic Garden. While there, he honed his skills in tree management, emphasizing sustainable practices. Jake enjoys spreading the gospel of trees - advocating for their preservation and proper care.