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When a tree is topped, it sends out multiple sprouts, which are smaller than branches that are close by. That can lead to some serious structural problems. The sprouts are weaker than the original branches - and because cutting the tree has opened a wound, decay can spread deep into the trunk.
That means that if you tie your rope to one of the sprouts in an area of obvious re-growth, the sprout can break off and pull out.
There are a couple of things you can do. Whenever you tie a rope on, get two people to grab on and see if it will hold your weight as you bounce up and down on the line. Then, pull the line sideways with two or more people pulling on it, as though you were playing tug-of-war.
If the tree was topped, it's best to tie in well below where the cuts were made and take a closer look as you climb higher. Some trees heal over and do fine; but often, the trunk is hollow and unstable high up in the tree and the only way to find that out is to climb up and see.
The best solution? Find another tree nearby that hasn't been topped and climb it instead.
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