When is a tree "too dead"?

[TJinSC]

Re: When is a tree \"too dead\"?

Sean, lets see if the third time trying to respond to your post works. First two lost my internet connection as I tried to post

. As far as the hung tree in my yard I'm not too concerned with it, its in an area where its not a threat to life or property. I was only using it as an example for my question. But using a nearby tree would be a good way to get it out of there. I agree with you though about staying in the healthy trees while I develope my climbing skills. Guy I work with gets aggravated sometimes when I wont climb the dead trees, but I figure hes not gonna raise my baby if he was wrong about the integrity of the tree.

What is "punky"? Is that when the wood gets soft?

 

[southsoundtree]

Re: When is a tree \"too dead\"?

Punky is soft/ decay meaning structurally less sound that a healthy tree.

Are you doing tree work professionally then?

Dead (all) trees should be approached with caution. Species will have a lot to do with it.

If you can tie into another tree with a solid Tie In Point, then you can add a margin of safety. An important thing will be that you would still be lanyarded into the dead tree. What will happen if it fails while you are tied into another tree? Could be worse than going down with the dead tree, as the weight of the falling tree will be hanging on your lanyard, while your TIP is holding via your climbline.

There are ways of testing trees, and using easier-to-release lanyards/ breakaway lanyards.

I'll PM you my phone number if you want to give a ring and chat.

 

[TJinSC]

Re: When is a tree \"too dead\"?

Professionaly is too generous a word. A friend introduced me to tree work last year, mostly just working the ropes from the ground and clean up. It looked fun up in the trees, but I didnt like the way he climbed, so I found a harness and spikes and tried to learn what I could. I think that is how I found this site and learned how you can use climbing lines and special techniques to make climbing safer. Ever since then I have been hooked. I advertise for tree work, cherry pick the removals that I feel I can handle and refer anything beyond I feel comfortable to my friend's brother's tree service. He wont work/train me though because he dosent want anymore competion in what he thinks is an already saturated market. I want to learn as much as I can and work towards becoming a professional. Please PM your number, I would love to chat.