Meet Our Founder: A Legacy of Service and Expertise

Tim Costley


ISA Board Certified Master Arborist #SO-1925B

Tim Costley, the president and founder of Superior Arbor Management Inc., has built a company grounded in service, expertise, and a deep connection to the North Georgia community. His journey is a testament to a lifelong dedication to both his country and his craft. Tim is a family man and his wife Tina is also very active in the business. He is the Father of three kids. He owns a large greenhouse and a blueberry farm. Ask him about his donkey and his beloved dog!

A History of Service

After proudly serving in the United States Marine Corps from 1986-1991 and the USMC Reserves in the late 1990s, Tim settled in Dawsonville, Georgia. The discipline, integrity, and commitment to excellence forged in the military became the bedrock of his entrepreneurial ventures.


Decades of Arboriculture Experience

Tim’s passion for the outdoors and landscape management began long before SAM Tree Service. His entrepreneurial journey started in 1991 with a full-service landscape company. He later built and operated a successful retail Farm and Garden center in Dawson County. In 1999, Tim focused his passion on arboriculture, establishing the tree company that continues to serve clients across North Georgia today. This extensive background provides a holistic understanding of landscape and plant health that is unmatched in the industry.


Industry Leading Qualifications & Community Involvement

Tim's commitment to his profession is demonstrated by his extensive list of industry certifications and qualifications. As an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA), he holds the highest level of certification offered by the International Society of Arboriculture.


His qualifications include:


  • ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA) #SO-1925B
  • ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ)
  • ASCA Tree and Plant Appraisal Qualification (TPAQ)
  • Wildfire Risk Reduction Qualification (WRRQ)
  • Member of the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA)


Beyond his professional credentials, Tim is a dedicated community leader. He has served as Past President for the Dawson County Veterans Affairs and the Amicalola Regional Farmers Market, and as Past Commander for American Legion Post 247. His leadership has also guided the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and the Dawsonville Downtown Development Authority. This deep involvement in local organizations reflects our company's commitment to the communities we serve.


When you choose SAM Tree Service, you are partnering with a team led by an expert with proven experience, unparalleled qualifications, and a genuine dedication to the North Georgia region. Call Tim today if you are ready to talk about trees, military or about the North Ga. Community!