looking for climbing guidance

lacky

lacky

First off, i'll introduce myself. My name is Chris and I am a firefighter/medic in the south burbs of Chicago. On my days off I work for a local tree service doing ground work. I have started learning how to climb and would like to increase my abilities. My boss is an every job spike climber (be nice - I just work for the guy). I want to learn to climb without the spikes. I was just curious if there was anyone in my neck of the woods who would be willing to teach me a few things.
This is a great site and thanks to all those who have posted so much great information.

Chris
 
'Arborist Equipment' By Don Blair

A tremendous read for the beginning and advanced arborist! This book is full of useful information and anecdotes about influential arborist's of days’ gone by! The definitive book on the history of arborist equipment. Written by Don Blair of The Sierra Moreno Mercantile Company.
 
See if you can get vertical rescue training through your engine company... great way to learn all sorts of ascent, descent, safety and rigging. It's not the exact same as tree work but a lot of it will transfer... you may be eligible for discounts on gear too.

I second both book recommendations, both are must haves.
 
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I was just curious if there was anyone in my neck of the woods who would be willing to teach me a few things.


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Todd Kramer, Kramer Tree Specialists is in the Chicago area, as is Norm Hall, The Care of Trees, and Mike Dirkson, city of....(?). They all post here and are great guys. Send em a pm
 
Chris, I work out of Wheeling. I get to the South suburbs on occasion, Naperville, Glen Ellyn, West Chicago. Are you far South or near South?
I am super busy right now and will be probably til September..... PM me if interested.
 
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Chris- you might want to also check www.treeclimbing.com

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-thanks for the link. Another good source of info.

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The Tree Climber's Companion is an excellent little book for new climbers. Highly recommended.


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-That was my first purchase. Great book, it has been a great help.

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"The Fundamentals Of General Treework" by Gerald Beranek is a must have book

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-I will add this one to the list. Thanks.

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'Arborist Equipment' By Don Blair

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-I am currently halfway through this one. Great book.

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See if you can get vertical rescue training through your engine company... great way to learn all sorts of ascent, descent, safety and rigging. It's not the exact same as tree work but a lot of it will transfer... you may be eligible for discounts on gear too

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-I already have rope ops (the new name for vertical 1). It is certainly an added bonus, but it is a pretty different type of operation. Hopefully I can combine some of the two one day. I will have to check in to the discount thing.

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Todd Kramer, Kramer Tree Specialists is in the Chicago area, as is Norm Hall, The Care of Trees, and Mike Dirkson, city of....(?). They all post here and are great guys. Send em a pm


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-Thanks for the info.

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Chris, I work out of Wheeling. I get to the South suburbs on occasion, Naperville, Glen Ellyn, West Chicago. Are you far South or near South?
I am super busy right now and will be probably til September..... PM me if interested

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-PM will be sent. I am more far south, but willing to drive. Thanks.

Chris
 
Wonderful. Less than 10 posts, and a keen novice gets shepherded into an apprenticeship with seasoned professionals.

Give it 3 to 5 yrs of on the job learning and reading, and the goal of 'competent Arborist' should be accomplished.

The only three important things missing from the book list are tree bio-mechanics, tree biology, and a USA specific book on Pests and Diseases. Understanding these subjects is important to keep you, trees and others safe and well.

I recommend 'The Body Language of Trees' by Claus Mattheck
and 'Modern Arboriculture' by Alex Shigo as a start. And a book on pests and Diseases (USA based author...?).

I'm sure some reading on philosophy wouldn't go amiss either, but reading the buzz, you've probably already gathered that!
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And a book on pests and Diseases (USA based author...?).

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"Insects That Feed on Trees and Shrubs", by Warren T. Johnson and Howard H. Lyon;

and "Diseases of Trees and Shrubs", by Wayne A. Sinclair, Howard H. Lyon, and Warren T. Johnson.
 
Stop working with the spiker guy. He will most likely not accept your new proper methods and you certainly won't have a chance to use them at work! My guess is that he doesn't adhere to industry standard pruning practices either.
 
I gotta say I agree with that. I'm in the same area and I know people are killing for hard workers, even if you are only doing it on the side. It shouldn't be too hard for you to get with another crew.
 
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Don't feed the trolls
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Hey sean!

That guy is not a troll he is just a redneck, maybe he has some good things to say under his rough exterior.

peace out brother!
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You think?

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Give the poor guy a chance, we gave you one, you turned out alright!
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And I'm so appreciative of it too.....my life would be....well just empty without you mate
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no matter what nom de plume you choose to use
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.

However just read the numerous posts put up by your friend and tell me again with conviction that he is not a troll.
 
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