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We've posted our answers to some of the questions we are most frequently asked. However, if you need additional help, don't hesitate to contact us and speak to one of the members of our friendly, knowledgeable customer service team.
1. Does climbing hurt trees?
2 .Is tree climbing dangerous?
3. How do I know if a particular limb can support my weight?
4. What are the best trees to climb?
5. How strong does my climbing equipment need to be?
6. When is the best time of year to climb?
7. How about people with a fear of heights?
8. How can I learn tree climbing?
9. Does SherrillTree charge state sales tax?
10. Does SherrillTree offer any benefits to TCIA members?
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1. Does climbing hurt trees?
Today's tree climbing techniques are regularly performed without hurting trees. No spikes, power saws or gaffs are used or welcomed. Noninvasive techniques even include chafe protection for ropes to eliminate bark abrasion! Regardless, trees are quite hearty, and we believe, have far more to gain from human interaction than existing without it. Take for example this storm-downed elm living in a park in Amsterdam Holland. Blown over by heavy winds several years prior, it endures a constant stream of foot traffic from both children and adults. Upon close review I was convinced the tree couldn't be much healthier and, given the circumstances, much happier. Contrast that with the trunk of this White Ash in my local park bumped only once by a sloppy contractor and the issue is clear.
2. Is tree climbing dangerous?
Yes, although the risk is easily minimized through use of a well proven and quite learnable self belay system. Proper tree climbing is performed using no less than two safety lines; a primary line for overhead support and a secondary lanyard employed whenever resting at an angle or detaching from the primary line. Other important safety steps include making a thorough hazard assessment before entering a tree (see page 45), wearing personal protection equipment (PPE) and of course, receiving proper training about system use and safety procedures.
3. How do I know if a particular limb can support my weight?
Generally speaking, tree structures are incredibly strong. Even small, ornamental trees are known to withstand enormous stress from ice, wind and yes, even climbing humans. Think back to the last time you walked on a limb or swung from a branch to reach your own conclusion. When climbing a tree, it's always advisable to keep your body weight and line draped on branches as close to the trunk as possible, at least until you're comfortable with the tree species' inherent strength and flexibility.
4. What are the best trees to climb?
To start with, I'd have to say that for every old-growth conifer you see in the pages of this catalog (Sequoia, Redwood, etc.), there are millions of as technically challenging, scenic, majestic and, usually much easier to access, climbing trees sprinkled throughout all parts of this and other countries. Many of the oaks and poplars tucked away in parks on the east coast are just as interesting structurally as the biggest trees in the world. Once you start viewing your community as the ant does a weed, your whole perspective of "neighborhood" may change dramatically.
5. How strong does my climbing equipment need to be?
Throughout this catalog we report the "rated tensile strength" of products that may be involved in personal support. In the working world, ANSI (American National Standards Institute) outlines that climbing hardware have a tensile strength of 5,000 pounds and rope 5,400. This leaves room for dynamic loading in case of errors or slippage. My suggestion? Follow these guidelines when shopping for any product involved in personal support.
6. When is the best time of year to climb?
Generally speaking, in seasons when the tree is past its most active growth stage (all seasons but spring), when the new cambium layer has strengthened and sprout growth has matured from buds to rubbery twigs. Although most thick-barked trees are unaffected by animal traffic in all seasons (that means soft shoes for humans), thin-barked trees like beech and maple can experience damage if the cambium is scuffed or torn in its early growth stage. As for the best times for humans I'd have to say summer (in the neighborhood), fall (in the mountains), winter (somewhere lakeside) and spring (anywhere the wind blows for "tree surfing").
7. How about people with a fear of heights?
Oddly enough, rope-secured tree climbing has been discovered as one of the most effective acrophobia-breaking excrcises around. Time and again people with fear of heights report that the ability to ascend and descend close to the ground while securely attached to a life line has been a helpful cure for often deep-seated fears. The eventual journey into the canopy? Just a bonus!
8. How can I learn tree climbing?
My recommendation is to find someone who knows trees, climbing, wood strength and hazards... and knows them intimately. There's little doubt that a certified, skilled and environmentally minded arborist in your region will know fundamental to advanced climbing skills and will also make the most entertaining tour guide. Eventually, certain tree experts may list the opportunity in the phone book; vacation resorts are already featuring excursions in some remarkable groves while others are adding the feature to established rope courses.
9. Does SherrillTree charge state sales tax?
Yes, SherrillTree charges state sales tax for the following states: North Carolina, Indiana, Maine, New York, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.
10. Does SherrillTree offer any benefits to TCIA members?
Yes. We send 5% of your purchase amount, excluding tax and shipping charges, to the TCIA. Half of this amount is applied toward your next TCIA membership and half is applied to the development of safety and educational programs for the tree care industry. Please type "TCIA Member" in the Comments & Promotional Codes box when placing your order or inform customer service when placing your order by phone. |
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