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WesSpur Knowledge Base

The learning curve for aspiring Arborists can be very steep, which is why we've started including information sections in our catalogs to help you select the right gear for the job. We've reproduced those information pages below. You can also find our most popular videos from our YouTube channel, and a link to professional training for tree climbing and rigging.

To get a copy of the WesSpur Tree Equipment catalog, click here. You can also learn more about tree climbing, cutting, and care by reading any of the great tree industry books here or checking out the excellent Working Climber DVDs by Gerry Beranek.

An Introduction to Stationary Rope Systems (SRS)

An Introduction to Stationary Rope Systems (SRS)

A comparative look at the advantages and disadvantages of Stationary Rope Systems and Moving Rope Systems. Also includes an overview of the popular tree climbing gear and setups used for SRS.

Updated terminology: You may see Single Rope Technique (SRT) and Doubled Rope Technique (DdRT) used in some older publications or product descriptions. These are simply older terms which have been replaced by the more accurate SRS and MRS.

An Introduction to Stationary Rope Systems (SRS)

An Introduction to Tree Rigging

An Introduction to Tree Rigging

An introduction to tree rigging, with helpful information on when to utilize negative blocking, high anchors, and slide-lines/speed-lines.

An Introduction to Tree Rigging

Visual Tree Assessment

Visual Tree Assessment

Prior to climbing, pruning, or removing a tree, a visual assessment of the tree's condition must be completed- the basics for which you can learn here.

Visual Tree Assessment

Tree Gear Inspection Guidelines

Tree Gear Inspection Guidelines

Tree work is hard on arborist gear, so regular equipment inspection is a crucial process. Here are some basic guidelines for getting the most out of your tree equipment and making sure it is in functional condition.

Tree Gear Inspection Guidelines

WesSpur videos

Tree Climbing Gear Demo Videos

WesSpur's YouTube channel is your source for reviews, overviews, and guides to tree climbing gear. Check out the latest reviews and gear guides on our YouTube Channel here, or view our most popular tree climbing gear videos on this page.

Ascension Group

Tree Climbing, Rigging, & Rescue Training

The best way to learn practical tree climbing, rigging, & safety is in person. Nothing else comes close to being able to get hands-on, personalized instruction. WesSpur produces training seminars with Ascension Group on topics ranging from climbing and rigging techniques to safety and rope splicing. Visit our tree work training page to view upcoming seminars and register to reserve your spot.

Links

Tree Climbing Web Links

  • Oregon Field Guide: Treeverse A fun watch featuring some great gear and excellent climbers making a very long traverse.
  • International Society of Arboriculture
    International organization providing training, resources, & certification for arborists.
  • ISA Chapters
    A list of the state and regional chapters of the ISA. Find your local ISA chapter here.
  • Tree Care Industry Association
    Association of professional tree care operations with tree climbing industry information and resources.
  • Tree Care Jobs.com
    Online job forum to connect tree climbers with tree companies. Post your job listing, resume, or browse the tree climbing job listings.
  • Animated Knots by Grog
    Animated knots by Grog is an amazing site which demonstrates how to tie knots for climbing, search & rescue, fishing, scouting, boating, & rope care. You can watch the knots being tied step by step before your eyes. A great resource for tree climbers and all rope workers.
  • National Arbor Day Foundation: 9 Things you Should Know About Trees
    Resource for the care of trees, how to make a pruning cut, tree care information, and store for trees.
  • Trees are Good Public Tree Information
    Information on tree care, tree climbing, and why arborists and proper tree care techniques are needed.
  • Arboricultural Association
    Association of tree climbers and tree care operatives in the U. K.
  • Arboriculture Article at Wikipedia
    Wikipedia is the online encyclopedia edited by its users. This means that the people writing the articles are those involved in the field. This brief article has links to many good sources of information.
  • Urban Forestry Article at Wikipedia
    Wikipedia is the online encyclopedia edited by its users. Yet More Information and links pertaining to the challenges, practice, and benefits of maintaining trees within cities.
WesSpur videos

Arborist Forums

Several sites maintain forums for arborists to discuss techniques, tools, & trade stories. WesSpur is not responsible for the content of these sites, good or bad! Some of the better ones are:
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