Gear Check
A couple of tips by Paul McCathie, Goodleaf Tree Climbing When it comes to checking gear the number one question I get asked is “When do I know when something is too worn out to use?” This is indeed a difficult…
Belay Devices: Are they well suited for Tree Climbers?
Written by: John Greer & reposted from TreeXP.com There has been a lot of discussion about using belay devices for tree climbing. Many belay devices are lightweight and perform well for their intended uses. Products like the Trango Cinch and…
Hi y’all!!
By Griëtte “Lady D” van der Heide I wish I could be writing this “Grove of the Month” while hanging upside down in a tree somewhere in Georgia, with my feet on a branch, where my friend Will Cottrell seems…
Tiny Twigs
The Importance of Tiny Twigs by Curt Andrews I still remember the first time I was kicked off a prospective client’s property for refusing to give them a price to top the large silver maple in their back yard. Anyone who…
Cradle in the Tree of Life
Part II by Dr. Donald Perry Dr. Perry welcomes your comments and questions. Please email him at canopy evolution at gmail.com The fruits of our creativity – music, dance, mathematics, technology, and our awareness of the universe – are the result of evolutionary events that…
Climbing the Tree of Knowledge
Part I by Dr. Donald PerryDr. Perry welcomes your comments and questions. Please email him at canopy evolution at gmail.com In 1973 I took a class in tropical biology where I was astounded to learn that while most rain forest species lived in the…
GOTC Environmental Principles
GOTC is very much pro-nature, and we strive to keep damage to nature to an absolute minimum. What follows are some of our environmental principles we would like you to keep in mind.
Safety Guidelines
Climbing Safety Guidelines Personal Precautions Guidelines Shout Commands HELP!Call this ONLY in an emergency. Stop all activity, be quiet, see how you can assist. STOP!Stop all activity, be quiet, and await further information or instructions. Throwing!Shout this before you throw…
Recreational Tree Climbing (RTC) Training and Expertise Levels
The normal progression of training and expertise level (may vary per Instructor) in Recreational/Technical Tree Climbing (RTC) is: Costs and training specifics vary per Instructor. Please consult our Facilitator and Instructor Map for instructors and locations. * Please note that facilitating tree climbing involves…
Glossary of Tree Climbing & Related Terms
Note: This is a living document, please e-mail your recommendations for additions or revisions to GOTC. A Aeration: Breaking up of soil matter to allow for more air to penetrate down. Anchor (point): (also see Tie-in point or TIP): The…