Rod Haulenbeek has been interested in trees since his youth. He pursued a career as a geologist for two major oil companies before he changed careers to pursue his interest in trees. He has published three books about trees, is heavily involved in the Nevada Big Tree Program, and has completed tree inventories for the Nevada Division of Forestry of over 15,000 trees with over 200 species. His certifications include Master Gardener, Tree Worker, Arborist, and Tree Risk Assessment.