NC Community Tree Webinar- Claims, Insurance, and Tree Care
Sep 09, 2026
4:00-5:00 PM EST
Claims, Insurance, and Tree Care
Learn how to confidently navigate the tree care claims process, from the moment an incident occurs through final resolution. We'll cover the critical first steps, common mistakes to avoid, and how to work effectively with your insurance partner to help minimize costs, reduce delays, and achieve the best possible outcome.
Speakers:
Greg Johnston, Granite Insurance
Greg Johnston is a Business Risk Consultant and Program Manager of the Granite Insurance Tree Care Program, where he works exclusively with tree care, arboriculture, vegetation management, and crane-assisted tree operations across the United States.
He earned a Bachelor of Science in Risk Management & Insurance with a minor in Finance & Banking, providing a strong foundation in underwriting, risk financing, insurance program design, and business operations. Prior to entering the insurance industry, he worked in the tree care industry, giving him firsthand experience with the operational challenges, hazards, and realities faced by tree care professionals every day. This unique perspective allows him to bridge the gap between field operations and insurance strategy in a way that resonates with owners, managers, and crews alike.
Through Granite's Tree Care Program, Greg partners with tree care operators to strengthen risk management practices, improve underwriting perception, and reduce their total cost of risk. His approach is centered on four key pillars: Outcomes, Perception, Cost, and Growth.
Katherine Rolfe, Keystone
As Chief Claims Officer, Katherine partners with agents and insureds to address claims related service challenges, conduct coverage reviews, analyze risk transfer in business contracts, and provide oversight and advocacy for complex claims. She collaborates closely with local agents, the insured, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators to ensure clients receive the full benefits afforded under their policies. Katherine also supports agents by helping ensure claims are handled promptly and thoroughly, leading to accurate liability and damages determinations. Her primary areas of expertise include General Liability, Auto Liability, and Workers Compensation as well as coverage for Professional Lines and Cyber Insurance.
Katherine brings 26 years of claims and leadership experience with insurance carriers, prior to joining Keystone in 2021. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Claims for Acadia Insurance, a regional subsidiary of W.R. Berkley. Prior to Acadia, she held multiple leadership and operational roles at The Hanover, including Director of Home Office Claims Quality, Manager of Claims Learning and Development, Manager of Casualty Claims, and claims litigation adjusting. Katherine holds a Master’s degree in Counseling and an MBA in Risk Management as well as professional designations of Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter, Construction Risk Insurance Specialist, Senior Claims Law Associate, and Associate in Claims.
CEUs:
- International Society of Arboriculture- Arborist, Urban Forest, BCMA Practice- 1 Credit
- Society of American Foresters- Cat 1- 1 Credit
- NCLCLB- Pending
All Refunds are subject to a 15% Administrative Fee.
