Ddrt) by Mark Adams

CLIMBERS’ CORNER Safe and Efficient Tree Ascent: Doubled

Rope Techniques (DdRT) By Mark Adams

et a ladder against the tree. Climb to the top of the ladder • Double Rope Technique (DRT)—two separate ropes and and throw a lanyard around the tree. Toss the climbing line two separate anchor points are used. In tree climbing, this is Sup as high as possible, or use a pole saw to place the line on usually referred to as “double-crotching.” This system is not an overhead limb. Flip or pull the line back down, tie the climbing often used for ascent but may be used for hazardous situations hitch, take off the lanyard, and body-thrust up to the tie-in. Put in which the climber desires a second system as a backup, to the lanyard back on, untie the climbing hitch, and repeat: set line, aid in positioning in hard-to-reach locations, or in very tall tie hitch, and body-thrust up. Keep repeating until reaching the trees for which it may be difficult to evaluate the security of tie-in point that will be used to work the tree. the tie-in point from the ground. Safe? Yes. Efficient? Not at all. But that is how many climbers • Single Rope Technique (SRT): A single rope is placed through accessed trees in the past. And, despite the time and energy that a suitable crotch (branch union), and one leg hangs where it this method requires, and despite—or perhaps because of—the can be used by the climber to access the tree. The second leg fact that there is a bewildering array of equipment and gear from of the line may run to the ground over any number of branches which to choose, many climbers still use this method to access trees. and may be secured on the ground by a number of means, or This article is first in a series of articles that will illustrate and the line may be secured in the canopy at the branch union. describe some of the different systems that are available to climbers For all the techniques discussed in this article, it is assumed to make tree ascent fast, safe, and efficient. The focus of these articles that an arborist’s climbing line has been set high in the tree with a is the systems and combinations of gear and equipment that can throwline. All of the techniques described in this article are exam- and cannot be used together. Readers are cautioned to practice using ples of doubled rope technique (DdRT). It is important to under- new gear and equipment carefully and thoroughly while on the stand that in both static and dynamic DdRT, both legs of the rope ground, before attempting to use them in a tree. Training organiza- can move. In a dynamic system, their movement is what moves tions and additional reference materials are provided in this series the climber up (or down) in the tree. In a static system, the climber of articles. grasps both legs of the line and climbs them together as if they were one, but, if either leg of the doubled line were pulled by itself, Setup and Definitions the other leg would move in the opposite direction. One of the problems that hindered early arborists in gaining access to the top of a tree was how to set the climbing line high in the canopy. The evolution of throwlines, throw weights, and throwing Secured Footlock The traditional, and simplest, way to ascend a static doubled line is techniques, and the advent of the Bigshot, have made it possible for to use the secured footlock technique. The climber is secured to the most climbers to easily and accurately place a line in the top of climbing line with a tether, usually with what is commonly called a almost any tree. Once the line has been set, there are many different Prusik loop (Figure 1), and uses his or her feet to grip the rope and systems that can be used to ascend the tree. These ascent systems advance (footlock) up the climbing line (see the article by Daniel can be categorized based on how the climbing line moves (or does Murphy for some good points on the technique of footlocking). The not move) when the climber ascends into the canopy. Following tether is attached to the doubled line with a friction hitch, usually are some common terms and their acronyms that are used to a Prusik or a Klemheist. There are some precautions that the climber describe ascent systems. needs to take when using this setup that can easily be remembered • Doubled Rope Technique (DdRT)—a climbing line is dou- with the acronym THADDS. bled over a crotch (branch union), and both legs of the line T stands for “Tie, dress, and set the knot” (Prusik, Klemheist, etc.). hang parallel and fall to the ground without any branches Tying the knot means simply forming the knot on the line; dressing between them. DdRT may be further broken down into the knot means aligning all of the parts; and setting the knot means • dynamic DdRT—both legs of the line move (one up, one applying some pressure so that the knot firmly holds its form. down) as the climber ascends. Body-thrusting is an example H stands for “Hands off of the knot.” A friction hitch will securely of a dynamic doubled rope technique. grip the host line when the hitch is properly tied, dressed, and set— • static DdRT—both legs of the line are stationary as the but a friction hitch will release the line (slide) if the climber applies climber ascends. Secured footlocking is an example of a pressure to and/or bends the hitch. A climber may inadvertently static doubled rope technique. cause a friction hitch to release its grip if his or her hand contacts Some systems allow the climber to alternate between ascending the hitch, so care should be taken to avoid unintentional contact the doubled line in either a static or dynamic manner. with the friction hitch.

50 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST • NEWS Figure 1. A Prusik loop consists of a length _ Figure 2A. A rated, short webbing sling of cord formed into a loop by tying the (red) is girth-hitched to a rated, fixed-eye ends together with a grapevine knot. The carabiner (“rated” means that the ratings loop is attached to the doubled climbing for that piece of gear meet the requirements line with a friction hitch (here a three- of ANSI Z133.1-2006.) The short webbing wrap, six-coil Klemheist). sling is then attached to the primary tether with a three-wrap, six-coil Prusik knot. A stands for “Ascent only.” In a The webbing sling provides an adjustable static doubled rope system, a friction attachment point on the tether. hitch will reliably grip the host line if ) Figure 2B. Close-up of the carabiner the hitch is repeatedly pushed up the and webbing sling. line. But in that same system (a static doubled rope system), a friction hitch loop serves as will not reliably grip the line if the a stopper climber attempts to descend with a knot for the friction hitch. The hitch may cease to webbing. The grip and could send the climber into key chain a freefall to the ground. carabiner at D stands for “Descending the bottom of device”—because the ascender can- the tether can not be used to descend, the climber be clipped to must carry some device that will the saddle to allow him or her to descend to the prevent the ground in an emergency. Many end of the climbers carry a figure-8 or an extra sling from HMS carabiner specifically for form- becoming ing a Munter hitch. entangled in D stands for “Debris.” If debris the climber’s (small pieces of leaves, bark, or twigs) feet while gets into the friction hitch and prevents the hitch from having consistent, steady friction with the host line, the hitch could fail. It is important to + Figure 3A. Another way to have an keep the friction hitch clean and free of all types of debris. adjustable length tether is to place a MicroGrab on both legs of the tether. The S stands for “Spread.” The friction hitch works only if both legs key chain carabiner is clipped to the sad- of the doubled line are close together. If the legs of the line are dle while the climber ascends and is easily spread too far apart, the hitch will open and lose its grip on the host unclipped when the climber wishes to adjust the length of the tether. The MicroGrab line. As the climber approaches the branch that is supporting the provides very easy one-handed, up-and- line, the branch creates a spread or gap between the legs of the down adjustment on the tether. climbing line. The bigger the branch is, the greater the spread + Figure 3B. Close-up between the legs of the climbing line and the greater the chance of the MicroGrab on that the hitch may fail. A rule of thumb is that the climber should the tether. stay below the branch a distance that is at least five times the diameter of the branch (for example, if the branch is 6 inches in diameter, then the climber needs to keep the friction hitch at least footlocking. This 30 inches [5 × 6-inch-diameter branch] below the branch). allows adjustabili- One of the problems with using this type of tether is that the ty, but once the tether has a fixed length. A fixed length works well when the climber Prusik knot of the is actually ascending the climbing line, but there are instances when short webbing the climber might desire a shorter tether so that he or she can be sling is set, the closer to the friction hitch. Examples are small branches that the setup requires two climber needs to clear away from the friction hitch or when the hands to loosen climber reaches the top and needs to step onto a branch while and adjust the maintaining five times the distance from the tie-in point. placement of the One solution is to attach a short, rated (that is, ratings for that web sling. piece of gear meet the requirements of ANSI Z133.1-2006) web- Another way to bing sling to the primary tether with a three-wrap, six-coil Prusik, have an adjustable- and attach a rated carabiner to the short webbing sling (Figure 2). length tether is to The climber can clip into the rated carabiner and adjust the sling place a MicroGrab on both legs of the as needed during the ascent. The grapevine knot (often incorrectly tether (Figure 3). The key chain carabiner is clipped to the saddle called the double fisherman’s knot) that is used to form the Prusik while the climber ascends and is easily unclipped when the climber D

JUNE 2007 www.isa-arbor.com 51 Climbers’ Corner (continued) Figure 5. The Dualcender also has wishes to adjust the length of the tether. The MicroGrab provides two side-by-side cams, but there is a very easy, one-handed up-and-down adjustment of the tether even single piece of web- if the climber has rested on the tether during the ascent. bing connected to Both the webbing sling and the MicroGrab allow the climber to both of the cams. The climber’s cara- work close to or above the friction hitch that connects the tether to biner is attached to the host line. While this makes it easy to clear small branches and the bottom of the debris away from the friction hitch, the climber needs to be careful webbing. This allows the climber’s weight to set the hitch firmly on the climbing line and avoid contact with to “float” between the friction hitch. Accidental contact with a loose hitch could cause both cams. If either the hitch to release its grip on the host line. leg of the rope is pulled, the one cam that is on that leg of rope will be released, Secured Footlock with Ascenders but the other cam will remain engaged. Footlocker and Dualcender A tether and the art of footlocking form the basic components of many ascent systems. Some people find it difficult to push the fric- attached to the bottom of the webbing. This allows the climber’s tion hitch up the line, however, and instead use a system with one weight to “float” between both cams. If either leg of the rope is or more of various types of ascenders (see Tim Walsh’s article for a pulled, the one cam that is on that leg of rope will be released, but good overview of ascenders). The climber may use any style of the other cam will remain engaged—a very important difference tether—adjustable or not—to connect him- or herself to an ascen- between the two devices! der, and the ascender is placed on the climbing line to secure the Both the Footlocker and the Dualcender require the climber to climber against falling. grip the doubled rope in order to ascend. For some people, this One early ascender that was used in tree work was simply called creates an uncomfortable position for their wrists and forearms, or the Footlocker (Figure 4). The Footlocker is a twin-cammed ascen- they simply do not have the strength to repeatedly lift themselves der that has a quick-release pin and can be used on a doubled line. in this manner. To reduce some of the stress on their arms, many The drawback to this device is that the cams are locked together with people use some type of handled ascender to grip the climbing either a carabiner or, more often, a delta link. When one cam moves, line. Even many competitors use handled ascenders in their day- the other cam also moves. This means that if the climber pulls to-day work because handled ascenders reduce fatigue, are easier down on either leg of the doubled line, both cams will open, and to install, and offer more options than a simple Prusik loop. the entire unit—along with the climber—will fall to the ground. Double-Handled Ascender with Twin Cams The Dualcender is an upgrade of the Footlocker. The Dualcender There is only one handled ascender that has been designed specifi- also has two side-by-side cams, but there is a single piece of web- cally for a doubled rope ascent system. Manufactured by Kong, the bing connected to both cams (Figure 5). The climber’s carabiner is ascender has two cams and two handles that allow the climber to hold the device in a comfortable position. Commonly referred to Figure 4. The as the “Kong double-handled ascender,” Kong lists it simply as the Footlocker is an “Twin.” ascender that has a quick-release pin and Some accidents have occurred with these ascenders because of twin cams for use on improper use by the climber. In some cases, one leg of the rope had a doubled line. The been forced out of the cam because the climber pushed the ascen- drawback is that the cams are locked der too close to the tie-in point. This may have been prevented by together with either a staying a safe distance below the tie-in and/or by placing a key chain carabiner or a delta carabiner in the small hole behind the cam (Figure 6). In other link (pictured). When one cam moves, the instances, either the climber other cam also moves. accidentally released the If the climber pulls cam with his or her thumb down on either leg of the doubled line, both (Figure 7), or debris of cams open and the some sort prevented the cam entire unit—along from properly and completely with the climber— falls to the ground. engaging on the rope. In some ways, ascenders are very similar to friction Figure 6. The cams of the Kong Twin can be prevented from opening by placing a key chain carabiner (blue) in the small hole behind the cams.

52 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST • NEWS

H stands for “Hands off of the cam(s)” so that the cam(s) is not A Word on Ratings accidentally released. Ascenders and other mechanical devices are becoming more A stands for “Ascent only”—ascenders are not to be used for and more common in the various worlds of tree climbing. descent. Mechanical devices can now be found at all levels of compet- D stands for “Descending device”—because the ascender can- itive, recreational, arboricultural, and research-oriented tree not be used to descend, the climber must carry some device that climbing. Yet virtually all of the ascenders that are used in tree will allow him or her to descend to the ground in an emergency. work were originally designed to be used in other vertical Many climbers carry a figure-8 or an extra HMS carabiner specifi- disciplines. Consequently, these devices were manufactured cally for forming a Munter hitch. to conform to standards that do not easily align with all of D stands for “Debris”—if debris (small pieces of leaves, bark, the current standards that guide the tree industry. twigs, or even candy) gets onto the rope and prevents the cam(s) European tree climbers must use gear that has a CE mark- from having consistent, steady friction with the host line, the ascender ing per an appropriate EN standard, where such standards could fail. It is important to keep the ascender clean and free of all apply. The EN standards (derived from UIAA standards) are types of debris. generic to all work at height, and the majority of ascenders, S stands for “Spread”—twin-cammed ascenders will work only descenders, and other mechanical devices do have the required if both legs of the doubled line are close together. If the legs of the CE marking. But, because each industry has specific risks line are spread too far apart, the line may pop out of the cam. The from its own unique work environment, consideration also same rule of thumb applies as for a friction hitch: The climber should needs to be given to whether each piece of equipment is “fit stay below the branch a distance that is at least five times the diam- for the purpose” for which it is being used. eter of the branch. Arborists in the United States, however, must use gear that Ascenders can be easily backed up by one of several methods, complies with ANSI Z133.1-2006. That document does not depending on the ascender that is being used. Because this partic- directly address ascenders, and it uses a blanket minimum ular ascent system is a doubled rope system, each leg of the doubled tensile strength rating for assessing suitability of other pieces line must be backed up independently. of equipment that are used for climbing. Recent articles that discussed ascenders in tree care seemed to have been unaware of, ignored, or contained separate discussions about the ratings of mechanical devices and the Z133.1. This is not meant to discredit the authors, but only to point out that in the United States, certain pieces of equipment have been quietly accepted into the tree industry without any discussion or research. Mechanical devices can make tree climbing safer, more efficient, and more ergonomic. Arborists need to learn how these devices were intended to be used and to integrate them into their work in appropriate ways. Because these tools are so useful, it is hoped that there will be more discussion and consideration of these devices in the Z133.1. These tools are like any other tool. If used properly, they can be a great asset, but if misused and misunderstood, they can fail. The safe use of a certain piece of gear is not simply a matter of tensile strength but of knowing that the item is “fit for the purpose.” _ Figure 8A. A backup system for The user must thoroughly understand how the item works the Kong Twin: A bow shackle is and how it functions as a component in different types of placed in the holes that are above the cams. A piece of 3/8-inch Tenex climbing (and rigging) systems. is spliced to the bow shackle so that there are two legs of equal length coming off of the shackle. hitches, and the cautions that were presented for friction hitches can One leg is tied with an appropri- also be applied to ascenders using the THADDS acronym: ate friction hitch to each leg of T stands for aTtach”— the doubled climbing line. the ascender must be prop- ( Figure 8B. Different view of erly attached to the host Figure 8A. line For one backup system, a bow shackle is placed in the holes that are above the cams of the Kong ascender. A piece of 3/8-inch Tenex Figure 7. Even with a key chain is spliced to the bow shackle so that there are two legs of equal length carabiner behind the cams, the climber can accidentally release coming off the shackle. One leg is tied with an appropriate friction the cam with his or her thumb hitch to each leg of the doubled climbing line (Figure 8). Thus, if either (as pictured), or debris of some cam of the ascender fails, it is backed up by one of the friction hitches. sort can prevent the cam from properly and completely engag- Another method to back up the Kong Twin is to place a Dualcender ing on the rope. above the Kongs and use a separate tether to attach the climber to

JUNE 2007 www.isa-arbor.com 53

Climbers’ Corner (continued) To reduce friction to the point that the climber can push the friction hitch up the line, the friction hitch has to be very, very loose. If Figure 9. Another method to back up the the climber stops to rest on the tether, the friction hitch is still very, Kong Twin is to place a Dualcender very loose, and the tether resting on the ascender is what’s actually above the Kongs and use a separate tether to attach the climber to the holding the climber in the tree. If the climber is ascending and some- Dualcender. This creates a backup thing prevents either one of the cams from holding on the line, he system (the Dualcender) that is com- or she will most likely continue to hold the ascender and will fall pletely independent of the primary (the Kongs). to the ground. This illustrates how important it is to examine and test the whole the Dualcender (Figure 9). This system to see how all of the components work within the system. Too creates a backup system (the Dual- often there is a preconceived perception that the system is safe because cender) that is completely inde- the individual components are safe, but this is not always true. pendent of the primary system (the Kongs). When ascending a tree, as with every part of tree work, safety should It is important to remember the be the number one concern. There are many systems available for tree difference between the Footlocker ascent, and it is up to each climber to decide which system will work (Figure 4) and the Dualcender best for him or her. Each climber also has the responsibility to make (Figure 5). The Dualcender will sure that he or she understands all components of the system indi- work very well as a backup on a vidually, how the system works, and what could cause the system doubled line, but the Footlocker to fail. It is important to receive thorough, proper training before will not work at all. If a climber is using the Footlocker as a back- using any piece of equipment, particularly if that piece of equipment up for the Kongs and the Kongs fail, then the climber will go to is used to support someone’s life. Please climb and work safely. the ground. The Dualcender can be used as a backup for the Kongs, Credits but the Footlocker cannot be used as a backup for the Kongs. The acronym DdRT for “doubled rope technique” was suggested six Warning! or eight years ago by Tom Dunlap on the (now defunct) discussion There is one method that has been used as a backup that will not forum of ISA’s Web site. work and should not be used. In this method, the climber is attached The acronym THADS for “Tie, dress and set; Hands away from to the climbing line with a tether and a friction hitch as in the tra- the knot; Ascending only; Debris; and Spread” is often used by ditional secured footlock technique. A pair of Kong double-handled ArborMaster Training as a mnemonic for tying the Prusik loop to ascenders is placed below the friction hitch and used to push the the host line. THADS was suggested to ArborMaster by Tom Green friction hitch up the doubled climbing line. There is no tether on when he was a student in one of their classes. I added the second the ascenders (Figure 10). D, for Descender, and applied the same acronym to ascenders. The rationale for this is that the climber is using the ascenders References because they are easier to hold than the doubled climbing line. The Adams, Mark. Slick tricks. Arborist News, April 2001. climber appears to be secured from falling by the tether and the Adams, Mark. More slick tricks. Arborist News, June 2001. friction hitch on the doubled climbing line. But the ascenders actu- Murphy, Daniel. The fundamentals and fine points of footlocking. ally create a spread in the dou- Tree Care Industry, June 2006. bled line below the ascenders. Tresselt, Tony. A systematic approach for testing new equipment and techniques. Arborist News, February 2006. Walsh, Tim. Ascender use in tree care for personal support. Tree Care Industry, June 2002. On the EN and CE markings: From Petzl’s Web site: http://en.petzl.com/petzl/frontoffice/static/ EPI/normes/norConn_EN.jsp On-line catalog of European standards: http://www.cen.eu/catweb/ cwen.htm EN ratings and the UIAA ratings: http://www.uiaa.ch/?c=310 The CE directory: http://www.cedirectory.com/ce-mark.php Rescue equipment and the CE mark: http://t-rescue.com/articles/ ce_mark/index.pdf Figure 10B. A system that should not be used! The ascenders create The author wishes to thank the reviewers for their helpful comments, Figure 10A. A system that should a spread in the doubled line, and not be used! A pair of Kong double- the friction hitch has to be very, especially Paolo Bavarasco and Chris Cowell. handled ascenders is placed below very loose. If something prevents Figure 4 and Figure 5 courtesy of SherrillTree. All other figures courtesy the friction hitch and is used to either one of the cams from hold- of the author. push the friction hitch up the dou- ing on the line, the climber will bled climbing line. There is no most likely continue to hold the Mark Adams is an ISA Certified Arborist with Downey Trees in Atlanta, tether on the ascenders. ascender and will fall to the ground. Georgia, and an instructor for North American Training Solutions.

54 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST • NEWS CLIMBERS’ CORNER Safe and Efficient Tree Ascent: Doubled

Rope Techniques (DdRT), Part Two By Mark Adams

This article illustrates and describes some of the different systems A stands for “Ascent only”—ascenders are not to be used for that are available to tree climbers to make their ascent fast, safe, and descent. efficient. It also looks at some of the gear and equipment that can be D stands for “Descending device”—because the ascender(s) can- used in various combinations to create different types of ascent sys- not be used to descend, the climber must carry some device that tems. Part one (see June 2007 issue of Arborist News) looked at dif- will allow him or her to descend to the ground in an emergency. ferent types of tethers, the secured footlock technique, and several Many climbers carry a figure-8 or an extra HMS carabiner specifi- types of ascenders. This article will show additional types of tethers cally for forming a Munter hitch. and several other ascender setups. Readers are cautioned to practice D stands for “Debris”—if debris (small pieces of leaves, bark, using new gear and equipment carefully and thoroughly while on twigs, or even candy) gets onto the rope and prevents the cam(s) the ground before attempting to use them in a tree. Training organ- from having consistent, steady friction with the host line, the ascender izations and additional reference materials are listed at the end of could fail. It is important to keep the rope and ascender clean and the article. free of all types of debris. Corrections S stands for “Spread”—ascenders on a doubled line will work On page 51 of the first article, it was stated: only if both legs of the doubled line are close together. If the legs D stands for “Descending device”—because the ascender cannot of the line are spread too far apart, one leg of the line may pop out be used to descend … of the ascender. To avoid this, the climber should stay below the branch a distance that is at least five times the diameter of the branch. The text should have read: D stands for “Descending device”—because the friction hitch cannot Tethers be used to descend … The tethers shown in the first article were examples of what is commonly called a Prusik loop. The ends of a length of cord are On page 54 of the first article, under the heading “Warning!” it tied together with a grapevine knot (often incorrectly called a dou- was stated: ble fisherman’s knot) to form an endless loop. The loop is then There is one method that has been used as a backup that will not secured to the doubled climbing line with a friction hitch, most often work and should not be used. a three-wrap, six-coil Prusik or Klemheist. The text should have read: One problem with any type of tether is that when the climber There is one method that has been used for secured ascent that lifts his or her legs to move up the line, a loop of slack is created in should not be used. the tether, and this loop can sometimes catch on some other part Review of the climber’s equipment. Some climbers attach the tether to their For all of the techniques that are discussed in this article, it is assumed shirt, run the tether through their shirt, or tape the two legs of the that an arborist climbing line has been set high in the tree with a tether together so that there is less cord that can catch on something. throwline. All of the techniques described in this article are examples Another solution is to use a single piece of line rather than a doubled of doubled rope technique (DdRT). Some DdRT systems allow the line. Figure 1 shows five different types of tether setups, each of climber to alternate between ascending the doubled line in either a which uses a single length of line or cord. Note that ANSI Z133.1- static or dynamic manner. It is important to understand that in both 2006 states: static and dynamic DdRT, both legs of the rope can move. In a 8.1.9 Prusik loops, split-tails, and work-positioning lanyards dynamic system, their movement is what moves the climber up (or used in a climbing system shall meet the minimum strength down) the tree. In a static system, the climber grasps both legs of standards for arborist climbing lines [5,400 pounds]. the line and climbs them together as if they were one. But, if either leg of the doubled line were pulled by itself, the other leg would When a Prusik loop is used for the tether, a cord or rope is move in the opposite direction. doubled to form the loop, and each leg of the loop bears only half There are some precautions that the climber needs to take when the load. The Z133.1 safety standard (quoted above) requires that using ascenders, and these precautions are easily remembered with the loop have a minimum strength of 5,400 pounds. Because each the acronym THADDS. leg of the loop bears only half the load, each leg has to have a min- T stands for “atTach”—the ascender must be properly attached imum strength of 2,700 pounds (2,700 × 2 = 5,400). Thus, the cord to the host line. or rope that is used to form a Prusik loop has to have a minimum H stands for “Hands away from the cam(s)” so that the cam(s) strength of only 2,700 pounds. But all of the tethers shown here is not accidentally released. use only a single piece of line rather than a doubled line (loop).

50 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST • NEWS The entire load (the weight of the climber, plus all of his or her gear) after it has been loaded, and the scaffold knot allows the Micrograb is on a single leg of the line, so the line must have a minimum to be moved right up under the carabiner. strength of 5,400 pounds. Figure 1D shows an 8-mm, double-braid tether that has a large, Figure 1A shows a 1/2-inch, 16-strand tether that has a small, stitched eye for the upper attachment; a small, stitched eye for the spliced eye for the upper attachment; a scaffold knot (also often lower attachment; and no adjuster. This tether can be attached directly incorrectly called a double fisherman’s knot) for the lower attach- to the doubled climbing line with a Prusik or Klemheist, or the large ment; and a webbing sling as an adjuster. This can be used only eye could be girth-hitched to a carabiner and used with ascenders. with ascenders. The climber can clip into the lower attachment The small eye is clipped directly to the saddle. A Micrograb cannot and/or the adjuster, and the lower attachment could be used to be used as an adjuster with this particular cord, but a compatible lock off the stopper knot below a floating false crotch. The web- webbing sling could be used. A Micrograb could be used if the line bing adjuster is difficult to move after it has been loaded, and the were larger (a Micrograb must be used on a line with a minimum bury of the eye splice makes it difficult to move the adjuster any diameter of 9 mm). If an adjuster is used, the tether could be closer than about 12 to 14 inches below the carabiner. moved only as far as the stitching that forms the eyes. Figure 1B shows a 1/2-inch, 16-strand tether that has a spliced Figure 1E shows a 3/8-inch hollow braid tether that has a large, eye for the upper attachment; a double overhand stopper knot spliced eye for the upper attachment; a small, spliced eye for the (also often incorrectly called a double fisherman’s knot) on the lower attachment; no adjuster; and a built-in elastic cord. This tether bottom; and a webbing sling as an adjuster. This can be used only can be attached directly to the doubled climbing line with a Prusik with ascenders. The climber clips into the adjuster, and the double or Klemheist, or the large eye could be girth-hitched to a carabiner overhand knot is left free or can be clipped to the saddle to keep it and used with ascenders. The small eye is clipped directly to the out of the way. The webbing adjuster is difficult to move after it has saddle. An adjuster cannot be used with this type of tether because been loaded, and the eye splice makes it difficult to move the adjuster of the elastic cord. When there is no tension on the tether, the elas- any closer than about 12 to 14 inches below the carabiner. tic pulls the loose tether together (indicated by the brackets { } in Figure 1C shows a 1/2-inch, 16-strand tether that has a scaffold the photo). When the climber raises his or her legs to take a lock knot for the upper attachment; a double overhand stopper knot on on the line, there is less slack that could potentially get tangled in the bottom; and a Micrograb as an adjuster. This can be used only the saddle. When the climber stands up on the lock, the elastic with ascenders. The climber clips into the adjuster, and the double easily stretches, allowing the tether to be extended to its full length. overhand knot is left free or can be clipped to the saddle to keep it These photos show just some of the components that can be used out of the way. The Micrograb adjuster is very easy to move even and the combinations that are possible when assembling a tether for ascending a tree. When trying new combinations, always make sure that all of the components of the system are compatible (for example, do not use a Micrograb on an 8-mm cord). Static Versus Dynamic DdRT In both static and dynamic DdRT, both legs of the rope can move. The disadvantage of this is that if one of the cams in the doubled system fails and there is no backup, then the climber will fall to the ground. The advantage, however, is that when using ascenders, the climber may perform either a static ascent on both legs of the doubled line or may pull down on one leg of the line and perform a dynamic ascent. This dynamic ascent is very similar to body-thrusting except that the climber does not have to advance a climb- { } ing hitch—the ascender(s) moves up as the climber pulls down. Thus the climber can easily alternate between footlocking, when there is a clear path of ascent, and body- thrusting, when ascent is hindered by branches or the trunk of the tree. This type of dynamic ascent can be accomplished with the double-handled ascender (the Kong A BCDETwin), which was shown in the first article, Figure 1. Five different types of tether setups, each of which uses a single length of line or cord. or with two single-handled ascenders. Because these tethers use only a single piece of line rather than a doubled line, the line must have a minimum tensile strength of 5,400 pounds. D

AUGUST 2007 www.isa-arbor.com 51 Climbers’ Corner (continued) Figure 3A. The left and right Petzl Ascension single- handled ascenders placed next to each other on the two legs of a doubled line and connected with a Note: This is not possible and should not be attempted with a single carabiner. That carabiner has a tether attached Prusik, a Klemheist, or any other type of friction hitch. The hitch to it (here a Prusik loop), and the other end of the will fail and the climber may fall to the ground. tether attaches to the saddle of the climber. This setup functions just as the Kong Twin, but the handles are next to each other rather than 180 degrees Single-Handled Ascenders to each other, as they are on the Twin. Figure 2 shows the left and right, single-handed Petzl Ascension ascenders on the two legs of a doubled line. In Figure 3A and 3B, the ascenders are still on the two legs of a doubled line but have been placed next to each other and connected with a single carabiner. That carabiner has a tether attached to it, and the other end of the tether attaches to the saddle of the climber. This setup functions just as the Kong Twin, but the handles are next to each other rather than 180 degrees to each other as they are on the Twin. A backup system is still recommended, such as the Rock Exotica Dualcender. (Note: Petzl sells the gold as the left ascender and the blue as the right ascender so that the cams can be manipulated with the thumb of the respective hand. This works when the ascenders are placed one above the other on a single line, but when they are placed side by side, the cams face and interfere with each other. When used on a doubled line, as here, the blue Ascension should be on the left and the gold Ascension should be on the right.) Other single-handled ascenders, such as the CMI Expedition, can also be used in this manner. But when two single-handled ascenders are placed side by side, only one hand will fit in the handles. There- fore, the grip is rather awkward, and there is excess movement between the two ascenders. Another available option is a type of frame that joins two single-handled ascenders securely together to create a single unit. A system that Figure 4. Mar-Bars use two single-handled CMI uses this setup is the Mar-Bar, Ultracenders to form a single, double-handled upper which was created by longtime ascender (with yellow strap) for the hands and two more Ultracenders to form a single lower ascender climber Paul Sisson. Unlike the for the feet. The climber is attached to the upper Kong Twin, which is manufac- ascender only and uses the lower ascender simply tured as a double-handled ascen- to assist in his or her inch-worm progression to the top. Because the climber is attached only to the der, Mar-Bars use two single-han- upper Mar-Bar, it is recommended that another dled CMI Ultracenders to form a system be used as a backup. single, double-handled upper ascender for the hands and two If a climber prefers the angled grip of the Twin more Ultracenders to form a sin- and still wants to use the lower Mar-Bar for his gle lower ascender for the feet or her feet, the upper Mar-Bar can be easily (Figure 4). The climber is attached exchanged for the Twin (Figure 5). Some type to the upper ascender only and of backup system is recommended. uses the lower ascender simply There are many options available for ascend- to assist in his or her inch-worm Figure 3B. ing into a tree. There are many different types progression to the top. Because Different view of Figure 3A. of components for tethers, ascenders, and back- the climber is attached only to the ups, and many of these may be interchanged upper Mar-Bar, it is recommended in various ways. Ascent systems can make tree climbing safer, that another system be used as a more efficient, and more ergonomic. Arborists need to learn how backup. the components of these systems were intended to be used and to One difference between the integrate them into their work in appropriate ways. Because these Mar-Bars and the Kong Twin is tools are so useful, it is hoped that there will be more discussion Figure 2. The left and right the position of the hand grip. The and consideration of these devices in future revisions of the Petzl Ascension single-handled Mar-Bars have a horizontal grip, Z133.1. These tools are like any other tool. If used properly, they can ascenders on the two legs of a while the Twin has an angled grip. doubled line. be a great asset, but if misused and misunderstood, they can fail.

52 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST • NEWS Figure 5. If a climber prefers the angled The acronym THADS for “Tie, dress, and set; Hands away from grip of the Kong Twin and still wants the knot; Ascending only; Debris; and Spread” is often used by to use the lower Mar-Bar for his or her feet, the upper Mar-Bar can be easily ArborMaster Training as a mnemonic for tying the Prusik loop to exchanged for the Twin. Some type of the host line. THADS was suggested to ArborMaster by Tom Green backup system is recommended. Here when he was a student in one of their classes. I added the second the tether attached to the Twin is a Prusik loop with a webbing sling as an D, for Descender, and applied the same acronym to ascenders. adjuster. Training Resources Arboriculture Canada Training and Education: www.arborcanada.com ArborMaster Training: www.arbormaster.com North American Training Solutions: www.northamericantraining The safe use of a certain piece of solutions.com gear is not simply a matter of ten- References sile strength but knowing that the Adams, Mark. Safe and efficient tree ascent. Arborist News, June 2007. item is “fit for the purpose.” The Smith, Bruce, and Allen Padgett. 1989. On Rope. National Speleo- user must thoroughly understand logical Society, Huntsville, AL. how the item works and how it functions as a component in differ- Mark Adams is an ISA Certified Arborist with Downey Trees, Inc., in Atlanta, ent types of climbing (and rigging) Georgia, and an instructor with North American Training Solutions. systems. Please climb and work safely. Figure 4 courtesy of SherrillTree. All other photos courtesy of the author. Credits The acronym DdRT for “doubled rope technique” was suggested six or eight years ago by Tom Dunlap on the (now defunct) discussion forum of ISA’s Web site.

AUGUST 2007 www.isa-arbor.com 53 CLIMBERS’ CORNER

An Overview ofBy MarkClimbing Adams Hitches

rborists’ climbing hitches have • how easily the climbing hitch releases The tautline holds the climber securely A seen tremendous changes and to allow the climber to descend and in place for working, but it tends to tighten improvements in the past ten then grips once the climber has under the load of the weight of the climber. years. Techniques have been adapted and reached the next (usually lower) work The tautline can become difficult to release borrowed from various high-angle disci- station after some use and often requires a great deal plines, and now there are numerous knots, • how easily the hitch breaks and of manipulation for the climber to descend. a variety of ways to tie them, and an assort- advances when pushed by a slack Advancing the tautline can be a struggle, ment of accessory cords that alter how the tender or the climber’s hand and then and usually the knot has to be loosened or knot responds when in use. Because of the grips once the climber has reached the “cracked” to move it up the rope. The taut- wide range of resources available, some of next (usually higher) work station line grips fairly well, but if it has been loos- the climbing hitches are well known and ened to advance it up the line, it must be illustrated; some are known but have been How well the knot holds refers to how set again when the climber needs to stop published in only a few different sources; securely and reliably the hitch stays in place and work. The tautline also has a tendency and some are known only by word of mouth. as the climber works in a particular location. to roll—the bridge gradually gets longer, In many cases, the terminology is confused, Ideally, the hitch should not slide at all. Release the tail gets shorter, and the knot eventually and discrepancies exist about the names of refers to when the climber pulls down on works its way to the end of the tail and and how to tie some of the climbing hitches. the knot to descend to a new work station. completely unties itself. To prevent rolling, One purpose of this article is to compile The hitch should release with minimal effort it is necessary to put a stopper knot in the information and present standard terminol- yet should grip and hold consistently and tail of the tautline. ogy with the hope that we can achieve some securely when the climber lets go of the hitch Many people have also used a “two under, uniformity in the nomenclature used for our on arrival at the next work station. Break one over” version. Two counterclockwise various climbing hitches. This article also is and advance refer to when the climber slides turns are formed down the line below the intended to help people learn some of the or pushes the knot up the climbing line with bridge, then one counterclockwise turn is similarities and differences between the vari- his or her hand or with a slack tender. The formed above the bridge. The two-under, ous climbing hitches, but it is not intended hitch should break easily and advance with one-over releases and advances a little more to teach all of the details of how to use a knot. minimal effort yet should grip and hold con- easily than the two-under, two-over, but it Descriptions of knots are to clarify the discus- sistently and securely whenever the climber sion, and photographs are for illustrative, pauses in the ascent or reaches the next work not teaching, purposes. If you are not thor- station. Note that, when ascending, the oughly familiar with any of these climbing climber’s hands are often above or below, hitches, then you should attend an industry and not necessarily on, the climbing hitch. seminar or training session before trying to climb with them. When you learn a particular climbing hitch, practice low and slow. Open Hitches Tautline As with all knots, climbing hitches need The version of the tautline that is most com- to be properly tied, dressed, and set. “Tie” monly known by tree climbers is “two under, means to form the knot, “dress” means to align all of the parts of the knot, and “set” two over” (Figure 1). Two counterclockwise ns are formed down the line below the means to tighten or load the knot before tur actually using it. bridge, then two counterclockwise turns For the purposes of this article, climbing are formed down the line above the bridge. hitches will be assessed by three main criteria: (Note that the legs of the hitch exit the knot in opposite directions. It creates a good Figure 1. • how well the climbing hitch holds the mnemonic because the legs look like a T Tautline—two under, two over. climber in place for work positioning for “tautline.”) ∂

©2004 International Society of Arboriculture. Used with permission. Originally published in Arborist News magazine, October 2004. Climbers’ Corner (continued) the loop makes a turn through the bight, it The tail is then dropped over/in front of the creates two coils (sometimes called “fingers”) bridge, passed behind the climbing line, and does not grip as reliably when the climber on the climbing line. If two turns are taken, then up through the bottom two of the four reaches a new work station and often needs then four coils are created, and the Prusik looks turns (Figure 4). It is critical that, after being to be set by tugging up on the tail of the exactly like the first Prusik that was formed dropped over the bridge, the tail is passed hitch for it to hold securely. There are other using a single length of rope (Figure 3). This behind—not in front of—the climbing line. variations in the number of turns, devised hitch is called a two-wrap, four-coil Prusik. Blake’s hitch has several advantages over to accommodate climbers with different the traditional tautline and Prusik hitches. It styles and body weights. When manila rope Figure 3. is not a rolling hitch. Thus, it does not need was used for climbing, both the number of Prusik with a cord— a stopper knot on the tail, although it is still turns and the direction of the turns relative to four coils. recommended that one be used. Blake’s hitch the lay of the climbing line were important. holds securely, but it does not tighten and Prusik jam as much as the tautline and Prusik when In the standard version of the Prusik, two the climber is working. It releases and advances counterclockwise turns are formed down more easily yet grips reliably when the climber the line below the bridge, then two clock- arrives at a new work station. wise turns are formed down the line above the bridge. Note that the tail changes direction when the turns are taken above the bridge. This change causes the legs of the knot to exit the hitch in the same direction (Figure 2), whereas the legs of the tautline exit the knot in opposite directions.

Figure 2. Prusik. Prusik with a loop— four coils.

When used for the secured footlock, the Prusik is formed around both legs of the climbing line, and it is necessary to form a three-wrap, six-coil Prusik. The cord that is Figure 4. used for the Prusik should be smaller in Blake’s hitch. diameter than the host line. Because the Prusik cord is doubled, both legs of the loop share Although some frictional control is pro- the weight of the climber, and the breaking vided by all of the coils, one part of the strength of the loop needs to be the same as hitch—called the “hot spot”—receives a that required for an arborist’s climbing line disproportionate amount of friction and (as stated in sections 3.23 and 8.7.4 of the therefore burns more easily. The hot spot Z133.1-2000 safety standards). occurs on the part of the tail that is tucked When used in this configuration, the under the bottom two coils. In a long, fast The Prusik has many of the same character- Prusik should be used only for ascending. descent, this spot can be glazed to the point istics as the tautline. It holds the climber A climber should never attempt to descend of rope failure, so it is important to descend firmly in place but often binds so that it may with the Prusik that is used for the secured slowly and always check the rope for exces- be difficult to release and difficult to advance. footlock. Although the single line and the sive wear before and after climbing on it. Although it is not considered a rolling hitch, loop Prusik look exactly the same, they per- The tautline, the Prusik (when tied as a it is recommended that a stopper knot be form differently. Some authorities even con- climbing hitch with a single length of cord), placed in the tail of the knot. sider them to be entirely different knots. and Blake’s hitch are all called “open” climb- Many arborists are familiar with the Prusik When tied with a loop, the Prusik is also ing hitches because the tail of each hitch is as a friction hitch for use in the secured foot- bi-directional—that is, it holds equally well left free (Figure 5). Therefore, they may be lock. In this technique, the Prusik is tied when pulled in either direction and thus used in a closed (traditional) or open (split- with a loop of rope rather than with a length can be used for a two-in-one lanyard and in tail) climbing system and may be tied to of rope. A bight of the loop is placed on the some rigging situations. either a locking snap or to a double-locking climbing line, and the other end of the loop Blake’s Hitch carabiner. is passed through the bight, creating a wrap, Blake’s hitch is tied by making four counter- In a closed, or traditional, climbing sys- or turn, around the climbing line. Each time clockwise turns up the rope above the bridge. tem, the climbing line is tied to a connector

©2004 International Society of Arboriculture. Used with permission. Originally published in Arborist News magazine, October 2004. can be tied in several different configurations. Figure 5. Open climbing WithClosed closed Hitcheshitches, the tail of the hitch is Unlike the traditional Prusik, however, there hitch (note the tail incorporated into the climbing hitch. Both are different names to describe different con- from the climbng figurations of the French Prusik. hitch) in a closed ends of the cord are attached to the connector—usually a double-locking carabiner. There When tied with a loop of rope, the (traditional) French Prusik is called a Machard or a climbing system. is no tail coming out of the climbing hitch. However, closed hitches can form only Machard tresse, depending on how it is an open (split-tail) climbing system because formed. When tied with a single length of the hitch is always separate from the work- rope or webbing, the French Prusik is called ing end (the lead) of the climbing line (Fig- a Valdôtain or a Valdôtain tresse, again depend- ure 6). As with the Prusik loop, both legs of ing on how it is formed. The term “French a closed climbing hitch share the weight of Prusik” includes all of these variations and the climber and all of his or her equipment. is not specific to any particular one. The hitches described in this section are The vast majority of tree climbers who often referred to as high-performance hitches. use a French Prusik use a single piece of When properly adjusted, they hold securely, rope or cord to tie a climbing hitch, so only release with just a slight touch of the hand the Valdôtain and the Valdôtain tresse are yet grip firmly after descent, break easily discussed. when advanced, and grip firmly and reliably The Valdôtain is actually quite easy to tie. when the climber weights them. Because The split-tail makes seven turns around the these hitches require less manipulation, they climbing line (Figure 7). A carabiner is then (usually a locking snap), and a long tail is allow the climber to move faster and more attached to the eyes of the split-tail, and the left in the knot. This tail is then used to tie freely in the tree. Ascents, descents, limb carabiner is pulled down so that the legs of the climbing hitch on the fall, or standing walks, and swings all become more fluid the split-tail cascade into place (Figure 8). part, of the climbing line (Figure 5). In the and graceful. This hitch holds the climber securely, releases open, or split-tail, system, the climbing line The hitches described below are highly with just a gentle tug on the hitch, and grips is attached to the connector using an appro- responsive, but they have more variables to consistently and reliably when the climber priate endline knot or an eyesplice. The consider than the open hitches. Where the lets go of the hitch. It breaks easily and with climbing hitch is tied using a short, separate tautline, the Prusik (when tied as a climbing little effort. But, if the split-tail and the hitch piece of rope called a split-tail; the split-tail hitch with a single length of cord), and are not properly adjusted, then the Valdôtain may not consistently and reliably grip the is attached to a second connector, which is Blake’s hitch are all tied with a split-tail of climbing line after it has been advanced then clipped to the saddle (Figure 6). the same construction as or very similar to the climbing line, the hitches described in with a hand or slack tender. It sometimes is this section use a split-tail different from the necessary for the climber to hold the hitch Figure 6. climbing line (note the wide variety of cords against the climbing line so there is contact Closed climbing that are used for the split-tails in the high- between the split-tail and the climbing line hitch (no tail) in performance knots). and so the hitch will then grip the line. open (split-tail) Ways to compensate for this problem and climbing system. The performance of each hitch is highly dependent on the length, type, diameter, and to adjust, or “fine-tune,” a climbing hitch condition of the cord that is used for the split- are discussed at the end of this article. tail and on the type, diameter, and condition The Valdôtain tresse (also called the Vt) is of the climbing line. A particular split-tail tied in a similar manner as the Valdôtain but may work very well with a particular climb- with one significant difference: Four turns ing line yet be unpredictably loose or irritat- are made around the climbing line, then the ingly tight on another climbing line. It is imperative that the climber be aware Figure 7. Forming the Valdôtain. of this fact and always test the compatibility of the components of the system before leaving the ground. Some of the variables of the split-tail that affect the performance of the climbing hitch are discussed at the end of this article. French Prusik Like the traditional Prusik, described in the section on open hitches, the French Prusik can be tied with either a length of rope or a loop of rope, and it ∂

is the top leg all the way down Climbers’ Corner (continued) Figure 10. With a carabiner attached, the the hitch. When the hitch is legs could be pulled either up or down to legs are braided down the line, below the advanced and pushed up the line form the Valdôtain hitch. wraps/turns. “Braided” means that, as the in quick succession (as when legs are passed around the climbing line, ascending to a new work sta- each leg alternates between being on top of, tion), one leg stays at the bottom then under, the other leg. After the first four of the hitch, and the other turns are taken around the climbing line, loosens all the way to the top of the top leg continues around the line but the hitch. The coils open, and moves down (rather than up) the line and there is no overlap to maintain is first on top of, then under, then on top of some contact with the climbing the other leg. A carabiner is then attached line (Figure 11). to the eyes of the split-tail and the knot is When the Valdôtain tresse is set (Figure 9). When completed, the Valdô- formed, it is a series of tain tresse looks much like the Valdôtain turns and braids. English-language knot (compare Figures 9 and 8). “Tresse” means “braid” books to refer specifically The Valdôtain tresse holds the climber in in French, and the to the French Prusik, place, releases easily and grips reliably, and braids create a dramatic Figure but this terminology is then advances easily and grips reliably as change in the way the 11. incorrect. “Autoblock” well. But, while the Valdôtain may become knot functions. When When the is a corruption of the loose after being advanced up the climbing the Valdôtain tresse is Valdôtain is French “autobloquant,” line, the Valdôtain tresse stays together and pushed up the line, the advanced which means “self- more consistently maintains contact with shape of the hitch is quickly, one leg stays at jamming.” It is used to the climbing line, which means that it grips retained, and, if the the bottom refer to a group of slide- more reliably after it has been moved up hitch is properly of the hitch and-grip knots and is the line. adjusted, both legs are (arrow on probably better trans- When first formed, the Valdôtain is simply held close to the climb- the right), lated into the English a series of turns around the climbing line. ing line and have some while the other leg term “friction hitch.” At this point, the hitch could be formed by contact with it (Figure loosens all attaching a carabiner and moving the legs 12). This arrangement the way to Schwabisch either up or down the line—that is, the allows the Valdôtain the top of The Schwabisch is Valdôtain is bi-directional (Figure 10). This tresse to grip more the hitch formed by making one feature probably would not be used in any quickly, reliably, and (arrow on counterclockwise turn the left). climbing system, but it may have some uses firmly than the Valdôtain. below the bridge, then in certain rigging situations. Knowing that It must be emphasized, making three clockwise the Valdôtain is bi-directional also helps one however, that the turns down the line understand how the knot functions. When climber might have to experiment with above the bridge. This forms, in essence, an the legs of the split-tail are pulled down to different types, lengths, and diameters of asymmetrical Prusik (Figure 13). Both legs form the hitch, the leg that forms the top turn the split-tail in order for the Valdôtain tresse to perform to this degree. If, Figure 12. When the Figure 8. Figure 9. for example, the split-tail is Valdôtain Valdôtain. Valdôtain too long, then the hitch may tresse is tresse. become loose after a long advanced, the ascent and not grip immedi- braid helps ately when it is pulled down. The Machard is tied exactly maintain the as the Valdôtain (a series of shape of the turns), but the turns are hitch and keep formed using a loop rather both legs in than a single length of line. contact with the climbing The Machard tresse is formed line, as exactly as the Valdôtain tresse indicated (a series of turns and braids), by the but the turns and braids are arrows. formed using a loop rather than a single length of line. The word “autoblock” has been used in some

©2004 International Society of Arboriculture. Used with permission. Originally published in Arborist News magazine, October 2004. exit at the bottom of the knot, whereas, in Schwabisch performs smoothly over a wide Figure 15. the conventional Prusik, both legs exit from range of variables. Its best performance is Distel—one the middle of the knot (Figure 14). This probably not as fluid as the French Prusik, under, four one-down, three-up version was the one but it is not as temperamental and does not over. that was first shown in the United States for require as much fine-tuning. use in trees. Depending on the split-tail that Distel is used, however, many climbers are now To form the Distel, one counterclockwise tying four turns above the bridge to create turn is made below the bridge, then four more friction so that the hitch will grip after counterclockwise turns are made down the it has been broken and advanced up the climbing line above the bridge (Figure 15). climbing line. If the legs of the hitch are too The difference between the Distel and the long, the hitch will become loose and not Schwabisch is that to form a Distel, the split- grip when the climber stops his or her ascent. tail continues in the same direction when the turns are taken above the bridge; to form Figure 13. the Schwabisch, the split-tail changes direc- Schwabisch. tion when the turns are taken above the bridge. Note that this is the same difference that distinguishes the tautline from the Prusik. Thus, the Distel is very similar to the tautline (Figure 16). For both hitches, a Figure 16. turn or turns are taken below the bridge; Distel—one the tail moves above the bridge and contin- under, four ues to make turns in the same direction as over. the turn(s) below the bridge. The difference between the Distel and the tautline is that the Distel attaches both ends of the split-tail onto the carabiner, thus forming a closed climbing knot. The tautline leaves one end Tautline— of the split-tail off of the connector and two under, therefore is an open climbing knot. two over. The Distel holds the climber securely and reliably in place for working. It releases easily and grips reliably when the climber stops his or her descent. In some situations, it may become a little snug and not advance The Schwabisch holds securely. It releases smoothly. The legs of the Distel exit the much more easily than the tautline but not hitch in opposite directions, making it quite as smoothly as the French Prusik, and necessary to push them in opposite direc- it grips reliably after descent. It can bind tions to loosen the hitch. Some split-tails Schwabisch and the Distel are not as finicky enough that it has to may not do this in their performance as the French Prusik, be hit more than once Figure 14. without some but neither are they as smooth and fluid. to break it, but, once Schwabisch— manipulation. Knut loosened, it advances one under, three over. In general, the The Knut hitch should not be confused with easily. Breaking and Schwabisch and the the Knute hitch, which attaches a lanyard or advancing are partly Distel are easier to tie halyard to anything with a small eye. I learned a matter of technique and untie than the the Knut from Knut Foppe in November and proper placement French Prusik. Once 2001. I have never seen the Knut described of the slack tender. tied, the Schwabisch in a publication, but I have seen at least Because both legs and the Distel stay three different people teach the Knut, each exit the Schwabisch on the climbing line, of whom showed a knot that was different in the same direction which makes it easier from what the others showed and that was and from the same Prusik— two under, to attach a carabiner different from what Knut had shown to me. place, the hitch is two over. and slack tender. The Knut is formed by making four easily broken by The French Prusik counterclockwise turns up the climbing pushing both legs has to be held on the line. The top leg is dropped in front of the back into the knot to line while the hard- bottom leg. A bight of the bottom leg is loosen it. Generally ware is attached. The held in place while the end of the leg forms speaking, the ∂

©2004 International Society of Arboriculture. Used with permission. Originally published in Arborist News magazine, October 2004. Climbers’ Corner Figure 17. with a softer, looser the hitch. Similarly, a knot’s performance may (continued) Knut—tied, ready to cord may not advance be changed simply by changing the diame- be dressed and set. as easily, but it tends to ter of the cord that is used for the split-tail. a clockwise turn down maintain some contact When properly adjusted, these hitches the climbing line, with the climbing line perform well and can be used for various around the climbing and thus grips more other climbing and rigging applications. line and the (now reliably after it is moved Lanyards, false crotches, and mechanical pendant) top leg. up the climbing line. advantage systems can be improved and Finally, the bottom leg Using a slightly made more efficient through the proper use is passed through the longer cord for the split- of a suitable climbing hitch. bight (Figure 17). The tail results in a hitch These hitches can be seen on various split-tail that is used in with longer legs. Longer Web sites; at trade shows and training semi- this photograph is legs prevent the hitch nars; and in videos, books, and magazines. longer than normal so from breaking as quickly Regardless of where the knots are seen or that it can easily show when hit with a slack taught, it is up to the individual arborist to how to form the Knut. tender or the climber’s learn and use them safely. The split-tail in Figure hand. Once the hitch References 18 is a length that does loosen and open, American National Standards Institute. would typically be however, it may not 2000. American National Standard for used for climbing. have enough friction with the climbing line Tree Care Operations—Pruning, Repairing, The Knut holds securely when the climber to instantly grip and tighten when the hitch Maintaining, and Removing Trees and is working, releases easily, and grips consis- is pulled down. Using a shorter length of Cutting Brush—Safety Requirements tently after descending. It breaks easily, cord for the split-tail results in a hitch with (Z133.1). International Society of advances smoothly, and grips reliably when shorter legs, which helps keep the knot Arboriculture, Champaign, IL. the climber pauses to work or rest. An added tight and compact. The hitch grips the line Ashley, Clifford W. 1944. The Ashley Book of feature is that slack can be tended without a more readily after the hitch has been advanced. Knots. Doubleday, New York, NY. micropulley. The bottom turn through the However, if the legs are too short, the hitch Bavaresco, Paolo. 2000. Practical arboricul- bight acts as a slack tender and advances may bind and be difficult to release and dif- ture—Friction hitch fundamentals. the hitch along the climbing line. It is not as ficult to break. Adding or subtracting wraps Landscaper Magazine, March 3. smooth as a micropulley, but it can be useful or braids has similar effects by increasing or Blake, Jason. 1994. The slip—or knot (letter if a micropulley is not available. decreasing friction and making the hitch to the editor). Arbor Age 14(5):40–41. The Knut is somewhat more complicated tighter or looser on the climbing line. If Budworth, Geoffrey. 1999. The Ultimate to tie and untie than any of the previous wraps (or twists or braids) are added or Encyclopedia of Knots and Ropework. knots. Like the Schwabisch and the Distel, subtracted, the knot’s performance also may Hermes House, London, UK. it stays on the rope after it is tied and, in vary depending on whether the changes are Budworth, Geoffrey. 2000. The Complete this respect, is a little easier to manage than made at the top or bottom of the knot Book of Sailing Knots. Lyons Press, New the French Prusik. (above or below the bridge). York, NY. The eyes of the split-tail for the closed Chisholm, Mark. Personal communication. climbing hitches may be formed by tying Confection du noeud machard double fisherman’s loops Fine-Tuning: Variations tressé. www. ffme.fr/ on each end of the split- technique/corde/noeud/ Thereand are Consider many variationsations on these high- tail, or the eyes may be autobloquant/ performance knots. A climber could add or spliced. If the eyes are marchardt.htm subtract wraps, braids, or twists to fine-tune tied, then the end knots (accessed 8/24/04). any of these hitches to fit his or her own may make it a little more Donzelli, Peter S., and particular style, body weight, climbing difficult to tie the climb- Stanley Longstaff. rope, or split-tail. Doing so may in fact be ing hitch. If the eyes are 1999. The French desirable because each climber can tailor a spliced, however, the Prusik revisited: More hitch to fit his or her own personal needs, taper of the splice may than just a climbing but it can be dangerous if the climber is not affect the performance of hitch. Arborist News aware of how subtle changes can drastically the climbing hitch. If the 8(2):49–50. alter a knot’s performance. The following splices of both eyes are Les noueds. membres. are some of the variables to consider. tapered together in the lycos.fr/climbrok/ Generally speaking, for a given length of middle of the split-tail, Sommaire%20 cord, a split-tail formed with a stiff cord then the diameter of the Figure 18. Knut with noeuds.htm (accessed advances more easily but, once loosened, entire tail will be slightly typical-length 8/25/04). retains its open form and does not readily expanded, which may tails. grip the climbing line. A split-tail formed affect the performance of

©2004 International Society of Arboriculture. Used with permission. Originally published in Arborist News magazine, October 2004. Palmer, Ken, Dwayne Neustaeter, Paul Sis- son, Kay-Olaf Busemann, François Dussenne (with Frederic Mathias), and Mark J. Chisholm. 1998. The Machard tresse. Arborist News 7(2):41–45. Prohaska, Heinz. 1990. Two jamming knots for thick cord and webbing. Nylon High- way 30:3. Prusik, Karl. 1931. Ein neuer knoten und seine anwendung. Osterreichische Alpen- zeitung 1116. Raleigh, Duane. 1998. Knots and Ropes for Climbers. Stackpole Books, Mechanics- burg, PA. Sherrill Arborist Supply. Product catalogs 2002, 2003, 2004. Smith, Bruce, and Allen Padgett. 1996. On Rope (new revised edition). National Speleological Society, Huntsville, AL. Thrun, Robert. 1973. Prusiking. National Speleological Society, Huntsville, AL. Thrun, Robert. Personal communication. Toss, Brion. 1990. Knots: Chapman’s Nauti- cal Guides. Hearst Marine Books, New York, NY.

Mark Adams is a Certified Arborist with Downey Trees, Inc., based in Atlanta, Georgia. He would like to thank the reviewers for their many helpful comments. Photos by Dorothy Payne and Mark Adams. Illustrations by Bryan Kotwica.

©2004 International Society of Arboriculture. Used with permission. Originally published in Arborist News magazine, October 2004. CLIMBERS’ CORNER Son of a Hitch: A Genealogy of Arborists’ This is an expanded version of an article that appeared in the October 2004 Climbing Hitches issue of SCA Today, the newsletter of the Society of Commercial Arboriculture. It is also a companion article to “An Overview of Climbing Hitches,” which By Mark Adams appeared as the Climbers’ Corner feature in the October 2004 issue of Arborist under, two over as a variation of the rolling hitch. Ashley’s News. The latter article presented—and encouraged the use of—standard taxonomy regarding this particular knot, however, is confus- terminology for seven common climbing hitches that arborists use in their ing and sometimes contradictory. For example, he also calls climbing systems. The focus of that article, however, was on the technical this knot the adjustable hitch and says it “is closely related to aspects of the use of those knots, and it included photographs and instructions the midshipman’s knot, the difference being in the arrange- on how to tie the knots. ment of the second turn” (1944, p. 304, #1800). But, in a This article discusses the names of those seven climbing hitches and how the preceding section, he says that the adjustable hitch “is the names and the knots themselves have changed, developed, and been reinvented same as a midshipman’s hitch” (1944, p. 71, #431). He adds over time and through various applications. Two other knots have been included that it formerly may have been called the Magnus hitch and in this discussion of knot names, along with pictures and instructions on how Magner’s hitch, and, if the latter is correct, it was (at that time) to tie them. the only other knot (besides the Mathew Walker knot) to have been named after an individual (1944, p. 265, #1465). The climbing hitches are discussed in the order in which they were introduced to the tree care industry in the United States. At least one reference is given Prusik for each of the knots, and, for many of them, two or more references are given. Another friction hitch that was used by some early tree climbers, References are cited from various high-angle rope disciplines, in several particularly in Europe, is the Prusik. Described in 1931 by languages, and from several countries. Arborists will find that many of the Austrian Karl Prusik for use in mountaineering, the Prusik climbing hitches that we consider new and modern have actually been used hitch has been utilized in many vertical rope disciplines. for many years in other types of climbing or rope work. When used as an arborist’s climbing hitch, it has many of the same functional characteristics as the tautline. t seems that, historically, the specific name that was given to a One interesting note is that when Dr. Prusik presented this hitch, knot was sometimes based on its form, sometimes on its func- he showed it tied with a loop. Present-day arborists use the term I tion. Yet it is frequently difficult to see when one knot becomes “Prusik” to refer to this configuration whether it is tied with a loop a different knot and deserves a new name. Making an additional (a closed knot) or tied with the end of a line with no termination of turn around an object; tying the knot with a loop, with the end of a the tail (an open knot). Some writers consider these to be two dif- line, or in a bight; terminating the tail in a different manner; or tying ferent knots entirely (like the tautline and Distel, and Blake’s hitch the knot onto the rope’s own tail, a different rope, or another object— and the Martin), but I have not found any other name that has been all of these may or may not be reason to give a knot a new name. given to distinguish them. Ashley shows it tied with the end as a There is no universally recognized taxonomy to help understand two-under, one-over version and says that it is a Magnus hitch with and define knot terminology. the final hitch “reversed” (1944, p. 298, #1736). It is shown tied The practice of bestowing a person’s name on a knot seems to be with a loop of rope with three wraps/six coils and is described a relatively recent convention. Although many of the knots presented simply as “a double strap or sling for hoisting a spar at [mid]length” here are known today by the name or initials of an individual, Ashley (1944, p. 300, #1763). (1944) reported that it was said that a man named Mathew Walker The tautline and the Prusik were, in various forms and with vari- was “the only man to have a knot named for him” (p. 118, #678; p. ous colloquial names, the primary climbing hitches used by arborists 265, #1465). for most of the past century. Ashley illustrated both of these, in their two-under, two-over versions, as “tree surgeon’s variations of the Tautline Hitch Magnus hitch” (1944, p. 77, #480, #481), and they were still the For most of the past century, the majority of tree climbers in the primary tree climbing hitches into the 1990s. At that time, however, United States used some version of the tautline hitch as the climb- climbing hitches began a dramatic change. ing hitch for their work-positioning system. Two of the most common versions of this knot are (1) two turns below the bridge, then Blake’s Hitch two turns above the bridge, and (2) two turns below the bridge, then In 1994, in a letter to the editor of Arbor Age magazine, Jason Blake one turn above the bridge. Toss calls the two-under, one-over varia- described what he called “the slip—or knot.” Although Blake certainly tion the simple rolling hitch and says that it “is still sometimes is to be credited for introducing and popularizing this knot for tree called the tent-line or taut-line hitch” (1990, p. 30). climbing, he was not the first to publish it. Ashley shows a two-coil Ashley (1944, p. 265, #1465; p. 298, #1734) also says that the version of this knot (1944, p. 266, #1470) but does not name it. The two under, one over is called the rolling hitch and shows the two exact knot was shown in Nylon Highway by Heinz Prohaska (1990) ∂

ARBORIST NEWS APRIL 2005 ©INTERNTIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE

Climbers’ Corner (continued) When tied with a loop of rope or webbing, a French Prusik is called a Machard or a Machard tress, depending on how it is formed. When and was published by Prohaska for the first time in 1981. Prohaska tied with a single length of rope or webbing, a French Prusik is called has referred to it as Gesteckter Wickelknoten, or simply Wickelknoten, a Valdôtain or a Valdôtain tresse, again depending on how it is formed. in German and as tucked coil hitch in English. Bavaresco (2000) It is important to realize that there are distinct differences in the mentioned this hitch and called it Blake’s or Polish, but I have way that each of these knots—Machard, Machard tresse, Valdôtain, found only one other source that uses the term “Polish.” A reviewer and Valdôtain tresse—is tied and how each one performs. The term of this article called it ProhGrip in recognition of Heinz Prohaska. “French Prusik” includes all of these knots and is not specific to any Because Jason Blake was the first to describe this knot for arborists, particular one. the knot was shown as Blake’s hitch at various tree industry trade Although the Arborist News article from April 1998 was the first shows. It was described again in Arbor Age magazine by Smith in formal mention of French Prusik in the tree industry in the United 1996, but the accompanying photograph showed the knot tied States, these knots had been used for many years in the tree indus- incorrectly. Oddly enough, Blake’s original letter to the editor had try in Europe and in various other high-angle rope disciplines in cautioned against using the pictured version of the knot, which he numerous countries. Several of the authors who contributed to that dubbed a “sui-slide” knot. Blake’s hitch appeared simultaneously in first Climbers’ Corner said that they had either seen or used a French Arborist News magazine (Palmer and Lilly 1996), where it was first Prusik years before the article appeared. Geoffrey Budworth shows pictured and described correctly for the tree care industry. an “extended” French Prusik (1999, p. 136; 2000, p. 134) and In the mid- and late 1990s, Blake’s hitch was the favorite climb- credits Robert Chisnall for devising it circa 1981, yet the same knot ing hitch for some, but not all, advanced climbers. Two-time ITCC that Budworth shows is illustrated (but not named) in Ashley’s 1944 world champion Mark Chisholm recalls that, at the ITCC competition book (p. 299, #1758). in Halifax in 1994, François Dussenne introduced some climbers to Thrun says, “The French Prusik knot is apparently one of the a new hitch called the Machard tresse. Dussenne had been using and older climbing knots, although I have never seen its use described showing the hitch for years, but it was not accepted for use in the in print” (1973, p. 6). The knot that he shows and describes is ITCC until 1997, after which it was introduced to a much wider similar to the knot shown by Budworth and Ashley, but it has fewer audience through a magazine article (Palmer et al. 1998). wraps and is terminated in a different manner. Thrun adds that “as a method of hitching to a post, it is old and well known” (1973, p. 6). French Prusik The Army Field Manual (1995) calls it a telegraph hitch and shows In the April 1998 issue of Arborist News, the Climbers’ Corner feature it inverted—presumably because it was used for raising and lowering made its first appearance and introduced a new climbing hitch to telegraph poles. American climbers, the Machard tresse (Palmer et al. 1998). That The word “autoblock” has been used in some English-language Climbers’ Corner actually consisted of six short articles, each of knot books to refer to a French Prusik. “Autoblock,” however, is a which included the various authors’ opinions of this climbing hitch. corruption of the French “autobloquant,” which means “self-jam- Although the information about the knot’s performance was consis- ming.” It is used to refer to a group of slide-and-grip knots and is tent and informative, there were discrepancies about the name of probably better translated into the English term “friction hitch.” the knot. It was variously called French Prusik, Machard, and Machard Wraps, braids, and twists can be added or subtracted to form tresse. Donzelli and Longstaff (1999) added the name Valdôtain tresse, many variations of the French Prusik to suit different styles of which they abbreviated as Vt, but which was (wrongly) shortened climbing. Names have been given to some of these variations—for in vernacular use to Valdôtain. example, the XT and the Turner twist. But many times the same variation is fabricated by more than one climber, so these names may not be consistent and are not widely recognized. Schwabisch The Climbers’ Corner article in the April 1998 issue of Arborist News also included a passing reference to another new knot. This knot was referred to as a Schwabisch Prusik, and Bernd Strasser was credited with devising the knot. According to that article, the name “comes from the area where Bernd lives in Germany: the Schwabisch land near Stuttgart” (Palmer et al. 1998, p. 45). But Strasser was not the first to use this configuration. The Schwabisch essentially is an asymmetrical Prusik with the two legs exiting the hitch at the bottom rather than at the middle of the knot. Thrun illustrated a

ARBORIST NEWS APRIL 2005 ©INTERNTIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE “Prusik knot with an odd number of coils” (1973, p. 5), and his description of how to tie, use, and adjust this knot agrees perfectly Knut Another eponymous arborist is Knut Foppe, who introduced tree with the Schwabisch. climbers to the Knut hitch (not to be confused with the Knute hitch, In On Rope, Smith and Padgett show a Prusik tied with three, which attaches a lanyard or halyard to anything with a small eye). four, and five coils, all of which are asymmetrical, but the legs exit I first learned the Knut in summer 2001, promptly forgot how to from the top of the hitch rather than from the bottom (1996, p. 53). tie it, then learned it from Knut himself in November 2001. Since then, Oddly, Smith and Padgett acknowledge Thrun as their source, but I have seen at least three different Thrun says, “More coils in the top of people teach the Knut, each of whom the knot make it hold better in a showed a knot that was different from downward pull” (1973, p. 5). what the others showed and that was In one paragraph, Smith and different from what Knut had shown Padgett state, “This variation provides to me. The Knut has recently been gripping power in the top of the shown in four different publications, knot” but, in the next paragraph, however, so the original version is they say there should be more coils now more readily available for those “on the [bottom] of the knot. The who wish to use it (Adams 2004a, primary gripping takes place with the 2004b; Fresco 2004; TCIA 2004). friction in these coils” (1996, p. 53). A reviewer of this article noted that the text in the first edition of On Rope TK was different from what I have Throughout 2002 and 2003, Todd quoted here from the second edi- Kramer, with Kramer Tree Specialists tion. This seems to be an editorial Figure 1. Tying the TK: The split-tail makes four counterclock- in Chicago, had been tinkering with mistake. wise turns up the climbing line. The top leg is dropped in front of knots to devise a friction hitch for a the bottom leg, and a bight of the bottom leg is held in place Smith and Padgett, as well as while the end of the leg is passed behind the climbing line and particular climbing system that he Thrun, say that the ends of the sling the top leg. . . . was working on. In November 2003, must be tied together after the hitch he showed me a knot he had fashioned is formed, implying that asymmetry for that application. His friends had can be achieved only with a length of named the knot the TK, but, with the cord and not with a loop. Ashley, how- exception of a half twist, it was exactly ever, shows a three-coil “Prusik” formed what Knut had shown two years with a loop, although the loop has to be earlier. threaded onto the object first (1944, p. The TK is formed by making four 311, #1864). He seems to consider it counterclockwise turns up the climb- a variation of a ring hitch (what ing line. The top leg is dropped in today’s arborists would call a girth front of the bottom leg. A bight of the hitch). bottom leg is held in place while the end of the leg is passed behind the climbing line and the (now pendent) Distel top leg (Figure 1). The bight is twisted Arbor lore has it that a climber Figure 2. . . . The bight is twisted from bottom to top, away from bottom to top, away from the named Uli Distel attempted to tie the from the climbing line, . . . climbing line (Figure 2), and the end Schwabisch but neglected to change of the bottom leg is passed through the the direction of the split-tail when he made bight (Figure 3). the turns above the bridge. It turned out The only difference between the Knut that this configuration worked well for and the TK is that, in the last step of tying climbing, and the knot was given the these hitches, the bight is not twisted when name Distel. the Knut is formed, but it is twisted when Bavaresco shows a two-under, two-over the TK is formed (Figures 1 and 2). The Distel and incorrectly calls it a tautline bottom leg of the Knut essentially forms a half (2000, p. 23). Although the turns above hitch around the climbing line and the and below the bridge are the same as those (pendent) top leg, while the TK forms an of the tautline, the distinguishing factor is overhand knot around the climbing line that both legs of the Distel are terminated and the (pendent) top leg. on the carabiner, thus forming a closed In use, the TK holds the climber firmly climbing hitch. The tautline, with various in place for working. It releases readily and numbers of turns above and/or below the grips reliably when the climber wishes to bridge, is an open climbing hitch. Figure 3. . . . and the end of the bottom leg is then passed through the bight. descend. The overhand of the TK tends to

ARBORIST NEWS APRIL 2005 ©INTERNTIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE Climbers’ Corner (continued) Army Field Manual N 5-125. 1995. atiam.train.army.mil/portal/atia/ adlsc/view/public/296944-1/fm/5-125/CH2.PDF (accessed be harder to break than the half hitch of the Knut, so the TK is not 2/21/05). always as easy to advance as the Knut when the climber pushes it Ashley, Clifford W. 1944. The Ashley Book of Knots. Doubleday, New with a hand or slack tender. They grip equally well after being York, NY. advanced and then tensioned when the climber pulls down on the Bavaresco, Paolo. 2000. Practical arboriculture—Friction hitch hitch. fundamentals. Landscaper Magazine, March 3. It should be noted that the configuration of the Knut and the TK Blake, Jason. 1994. The slip—or knot (letter to the editor). Arbor are both new and were developed independently of each other. I have Age 14(5):40–41. not found reference to any other knot that is similar in form and func- Budworth, Geoffrey. 1999. The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Knots and tion to each of these. The adjustable bend (Budworth 1999, p. 52) Ropework. Hermes House, London, UK. has some resemblance, but it has fewer turns, does not incorporate Budworth, Geoffrey. 2000. The Complete Book of Sailing Knots. Lyons the tail, and is shown for use only as a bend. Press, New York, NY. The TK was devised and introduced after the Knut, but Kramer Donzelli, Peter S., and Stanley Longstaff. 1999. The French Prusik had no knowledge of the existence of the Knut nor how it was tied. revisited: More than just a climbing hitch. Arborist News 8(2):49–50. The question, then, is “Are these two separate knots or is one a Palmer, Ken, and Sharon Lilly. 1996. Innovations in climbing tech- variation of the other?” They are used for exactly the same purpose, niques and equipment. Arborist News 5(3):9–14. and the difference between them is the difference between an over- Palmer, Ken, Dwayne Neustaeter, Paul Sisson, Kay-Olaf Busemann, hand knot and a half hitch. François Dussenne (with Frederic Mathias), and Mark J. Chisholm. 1998. The Machard tresse. Arborist News 7(2):41–45. Martin Prohaska, Heinz. 1990. Two jamming knots for thick cord and As this article was being written, Ken Palmer, president of ArborMaster® webbing. Nylon Highway 30:3. Training, Inc., related that one of their instructors had started using Prusik, Karl. 1931. Ein neuer knoten und seine anwendung. Oster- yet another climbing hitch. It is a close variation of Blake’s hitch, but reichische Alpenzeitung 1116. it is tied as a closed climbing hitch (that is, it uses a split-tail with Smith, Bruce, and Allen Padgett. 1996. On Rope (new revised edition). two eyes, and both eyes are attached to the carabiner). It is tied by National Speleological Society, Huntsville, AL. taking four wraps around the Smith, Ken. 1996. It’s “knot” as climbing line, then passing the tail easy as it looks. Arbor Age down and over the bottom leg 16(6):10–14. (bridge) of the split-tail and behind Thrun, Robert. 1973. Prusiking. the climbing line. The tail is then National Speleological Society, tucked under only one of the Huntsville, AL. wraps instead of two (Figure 4). Toss, Brion. 1990. Knots: Chapman’s Although I have used the Martin Nautical Guides. Hearst Marine only a few times, its performance Books, New York, NY. has been promising. The most Tree Care Industry Association notable drawback has been that, (TCIA). 2004. Climbing like Blake’s hitch, the part of the hitches. The Tree Worker 267:4. split-tail that is tucked under the www.treecareindustry.org/ bottom coil experiences more fric- D93XLF5372416/TWNOV04. tion and heat than the rest of the pdf (accessed 2/23/05). hitch and therefore may be prone Additional References and to burn prematurely. As with any Figure 4. Tying the Martin: The split-tail makes four counterclock- Personal Communications climbing hitch, one needs to wise turns up the climbing line. The top leg is dropped in front of the American National Standards bottom leg, behind the climbing line and up through the bottom turn. consider the many other variables Institute. 2000. American that may affect the knot’s perfor- National Standard for Tree Care mance. The name Martin (accent on the second syllable) comes Operations—Pruning, Repairing, Maintaining, and Removing from the instructor who has been using it. Ironically, he thought Trees and Cutting Brush—Safety Requirements (Z133.1). Inter- that he had been using a Knut. national Society of Arboriculture, Champaign, IL. Chisholm, Mark. Personal communication. Arborists tend to think of climbing hitches as either “new” or “old.” Confection du noeud machard tressé. www.ffme.fr/technique/corde/ In reality, these knots are either “old” or “older” and have been used noeud/autobloquant/machardt.htm (accessed 2/21/05). for years in different fields and different applications. Foppe, Knut. Personal communication. Literature Cited Fresco Arborist Supplies. Product catalog 2004. Adams, Mark. 2004a. An overview of climbing hitches. Arborist News Knut Climbing Hitch Variation (the TK Hitch). TreeBuzz.com dis- 13(5):29–35. cussion group thread. www.treebuzz.com/forum/showflat.php? Adams, Mark. 2004b. Son of a hitch, I’ve seen that knot somewhere Cat=&Board=UBB2&Number=15286&page=1&view= before. SCA Today 8(3):1, 4–5. collapsed&sb=5&o=&fpart=1 (accessed 2/21/05).

ARBORIST NEWS APRIL 2005 ©INTERNTIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE Kramer, Todd. Personal communication. Sherrill Arborist Supply. Product catalogs 2002, 2003, 2004. Lehman, Dan. Personal communication. Sherrill, Tobe. Personal communication. Les noueds. membres.lycos.fr/climbrok/Sommaire%20noeuds.htm Thrun, Robert. Personal communication. (accessed 2/21/05). Palmer, Ken. Personal communication. Mark Adams is a Certified Arborist with Downey Trees, Inc., based in Prohaska, Heinz. Personal communication. Atlanta, Georgia. He can be reached at [email protected]. Raleigh, Duane. 1998. Knots and Ropes for Climbers. Stackpole Photos by Mark Adams. Books, Mechanicsburg, PA.

ARBORIST NEWS APRIL 2005 ©INTERNTIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE

CLIMBERS’ CORNER Climbing Hitches: Addenda and Corrigenda By Mark Adams

his article provides additions to and corrections (addenda name, two different knots. A hitch that is loaded on one strand and corrigenda) of two previous articles on climbing hitches behaves much differently from a hitch that is loaded on both strands. T that appeared in earlier issues of Arborist News. The additions The difference between the tautline and Distel, and Blake’s and the and corrections are based on suggestions and comments received Michoacán (which I incorrectly called the Martin; see below) is that since the publication of those articles. the tautline and Blake’s are open knots, while the Distel and the The first article, “An Overview of Climbing Hitches,” appeared as Michoacán are closed knots. Thrun refers to the open version of the the Climbers’ Corner feature for October 2004. The article focused Prusik (tied with the end of the line) simply as a “hitch series” and on the technical aspects of approximately seven climbing hitches and emphasizes that Karl Prusik’s original article showed the Prusik tied included instructions and photographs on how to tie the various with a closed loop. climbing hitches. The second article, “Son of a Hitch: A Genealogy of Arborists’ Climbing Hitches,” appeared as the Climbers’ Corner French Prusik feature for April 2005. It discussed the history of the names of those The overview article stated that “there are different names to describe various climbing hitches and included photographs and descrip- different configurations of the French Prusik.” The article mentioned tions of two additional climbing hitches. four versions of French Prusik, describing two in detail. The genealogy article mentioned the same four variations (Machard, Machard Prusik tresse, Valdôtain, and Valdôtain tresse) and said that Geoffrey Budworth There were several comments about the open (Figure 1) and closed showed an “extended” French Prusik. The “extended” French Prusik, (Figure 2) forms of the Prusik. In the genealogy article, it was however, was not described or shown in the genealogy article. An stated: “extended” French Prusik is simply a series of braids formed down . . . when Dr. Prusik presented this hitch, he showed it tied with a the line; that is, it could be thought of as a Valdotain tresse without the loop. Present-day arborists use the term “Prusik” to refer to this turns. A commentator men- configuration whether it is tied with a loop (a closed knot) or tied tioned that the book Alpine with the end of a line with no termination of the tail (an open knot). Caving Techniques uses the name Some writers consider these to be two different knots entirely (p. 51). “French Prusik” for yet another knot that the commentator Some of the comments were that there should have been a described as “a single-strand stronger statement that these knots were in function, if not in Bachman.” Schwabisch The genealogy article (pp. 52–53) pointed out that the Schwabisch (which may be thought of as an asymmetric Prusik, Figure 3) appears in the book On Rope, which shows the knot tied with three, four, and five turns. After some correspondence, it was determined that the first edition of On Rope describes and illustrates the knot correctly. In the new revised edition, how- Figure 3. When using the ever, there was a mistake in both Schwabisch, the primary the text and the line drawings. Figure 2. . . . or as a “closed” climbing gripping takes place in the top The text incorrectly describes hitch. The open and closed versions of the knot. The Schwabisch where the primary gripping respond differently, and some consider should be tied so that the Figure 1. The form of the Prusik can be tied the open and closed versions to be majority of the coils are in takes place, and the line drawings as either an “open” climbing hitch. . . two different knots. the top of the knot. show the knot upside down.

52 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST•NEWS It was thought that the genealogy article was not clear enough On July 7, 2005, in a thread on the discussion forum of the Web about the (potentially fatal) errors in On Rope. When using the site TreeBuzz, Paolo Bavaresco mentioned that he was experiment- Schwabisch, the primary gripping takes place in the top of the ing with a new hitch, which he called the Eye-Tie. On August 18, knot—and the Schwabisch should be tied so that the majority of he described the hitch in detail and provided a link to his Web site the turns are in the top of the knot. Both the text and the drawings where a video gave step-by-step instructions for tying the knot in the new revised edition of On Rope are incorrect. (called the Eyetie on the Web site). The Eyetie hitch is exactly the On Rope also states that an asymmetric Prusik “. . . is a variation same as the Michoacán except that Bavaresco uses six turns for the used when endless loop wrapping is not possible” (p. 53). But an Eyetie instead of the four or five that are normally used for the endless loop is not necessary to make a symmetric Prusik. A symmetric Michoacán. Prusik can be formed with a length of cord and then the ends can be It is frequently difficult to see when one knot becomes another tied-off, or with the end of a line as when used to form a climbing and deserves a new name. Making an additional turn around an hitch on the end of a climbing line. object; tying the knot with a loop, the end of a line, or in a bight; terminating the tail in a different manner; or tying the knot onto the rope’s own tail, a different rope, or another object—all of Michoacán these may or may not be reason to give a knot a new The genealogy article name. In this case, it seems that the Eyetie and the showed and described a Michoacán are the same knot, realized by different climbing hitch that had arborists. recently been intro- There are many variations of the climbing hitches duced and with which I shown in the overview and genealogy articles. A had not had a lot of climber can add, subtract, or change the direction of experience. The name wraps, braids, or twists to fine-tune any of these that was used for the hitches. There are also, at least in name, many other knot in the article was climbing hitches. Most, if not all, of them are variations Martin (pronounced or interpretations of the knots shown in these articles. Mar-TEEN) after Martin Regardless of which knot is used, it is important that Morales, the climber each climber learns to tie, dress, and set the knot prop- who introduced the erly. It is equally important that each climber tests the knot. Figure 4. The Michoacán can be thought of as a “closed” compatibility of all the components of the system before Since publication of version of Blake’s hitch. To form the Michoacán, the split-tail attempting to use the system in a tree. Please climb and the article, I have had an makes four counterclockwise turns up the climbing line. The top leg is dropped in front of the bottom leg, behind work safely. opportunity to talk with the climbing line, and up through the bottom turn. Both Martin, who stated that legs are then clipped to the carabiner. Some climbers prefer References and Credits it was his desire to have to use five or six turns rather than the four shown here. Adams, Mark. 2004. An overview of climbing hitches. the knot called the Michoacán, after the state where he lived in Mex- Arborist News (October 2004) 13(5):29–35. ico. Other arborists had dubbed it the Martin because they had Adams, Mark. 2005. Son of a hitch: A genealogy of climbing difficulty pronouncing Michoacán. I will follow Martin’s wishes and hitches. Arborist News (April 2005) 14(2):51–54. call it Michoacán (pronounced Mee-cho-a-CAN) (Figure 4). Lehman, Dan. Personal communication. I also have been able to use the knot extensively in various Morales, Martin. Personal communication. settings and with various combinations of hitch cord and climbing Smith, Bruce, and Allen Padgett. 1996. On Rope: North American line. In the original article from April 2005, I showed the knot tied Vertical Rope Techniques (new revised edition). National Speleo- with four turns and the top leg tucked under one (the bottom) turn. logical Society, Huntsville, AL. I have found this to be fluid, responsive, and reliable. Some people, Thrun, Robert. Personal communication. however (including Martin), have commented that the knot holds TreeBuzz Web site, www.treebuzz.com/index.php: better if there are five turns around the climbing line. August 18, 2005: www.treebuzz.com/forum/showflat.php?Cat=& I have not experienced any problem with the knot slipping if it Board=UBB2&Number=29401&Searchpage=1&Main=29397& is properly tied, dressed, and set, but performance can vary dramat- Words=marteen&topic=&Search=true#Post29401. ically depending on the length, type, diameter, and condition of the Tree Mettle Nexus Web site, www.treemettlenexus.com: cord that is used for the split-tail, and on the type, diameter, and Eyetie: www.treemettlenexus.com/class2.html. condition of the climbing line. For example if the legs of the knot (indicated by the arrows in Figure 4) are the length shown in Fig- The author would like to thank the reviewers of this article for their ure 4, the knot will be very loose and unpredictable. helpful suggestions. The legs are long in Figure 4 only so that it is easy to see the All photos are courtesy of the author. whole knot tied and “exploded.” In practice, I tie the cord so that Mark Adams is an ISA Certified Arborist with Downey Trees, Inc., in the legs are very, very short. Every climber needs to check the com- Atlanta, Georgia, and an instructor with North American Training Solutions. patibility of the components of his or her own system before leaving the ground (some other variables are discussed in the overview article, p. 34).

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CLIMBERS’ C0RNER Slick Tricks

By Mark Adams

rborists use slick lines, also com- The intent of this article is to encourage on weights, lines, use of the Big Shot, and Amonly called throwlines, for a greater use of the throwline by illustrating installation of false crotches and friction variety of tasks. Slick lines can be some techniques that have not been widely savers. Blair’s Arborist Equipment also covers used for installing climbing lines, lowering circulated. Some of these tricks I learned from types of weights and lines, and is sprinkled lines, taglines, and transfer lines; removing others, and some I devised myself. Arborists with some amusing anecdotal history. Bera- hangers; aiding in tying back shrubs, who are new to throwline use will, I hope, neck (Fundamentals of General Tree Work) has branches and trees; and reaching climbers find additional ways to work through some some dated—but also some very interest- or bucket operators who have dropped a common problems that make learning to ing—tricks. This past fall, the discussion pages rope. Throwlines can be set from the use the throwline so frustrating. Those who on the ISA Web site (www.isa-arbor.com) ground, from a tree, or from an aerial lift. are already slick-line savvy may find a new contained a couple of threads that discussed Some people are reluctant to use throwlines, idea or two that can be added to their exist- throwing, types of string, and methods of however, because there is some frustration ing repertoire. storage. Also, instructional videos that in learning how to use them and because A number of sources describe methods include some discussion of throwline use people believe they can be productive faster and uses of a throwline. Jepson, in The Tree are available from both ISA and NAA. without them. Climber’s Companion, provides information Getting Ready Always wear a helmet and eye protection when using a throwline. For the setup of the throwline, I prefer to have a throw weight at each end of the line. Various knots can be used to secure the string to the throw weight: Two half hitches, clove hitch, buntline hitch, anchor hitch, and bowline are all used as attachment knots in this application. Because of the small diameter of the string, however, and the amount of force that is sometimes used to pull on the string, these knots can become difficult to untie, particularly if the string is frayed. Many of these knots can be “slipped” (passing a bight through the final tuck), which can solve this problem. Another arrangement is to girth hitch the throw weight. It is easy to take the weight on and off even after being loaded and, although this knot does not slip once it is set, it can be backed up with a half hitch if desired. Throwing A common method of throwing the weight is the underhand throw (also called single hand or pendulum). It is accomplished by making a slipknot in the string at about waist height, holding the string at the knot, and swinging the weight back and forth.

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Climbers’ Corner

you), attach a stick to the line with a clove hitch or simply by taking a number of wraps around the stick. This becomes a handle you can pull on until the Figure 1. Throwing weight shoots out with a long pendulum. of the tree or the Start to drive the throw string breaks and weight by moving the snaps back at you. wrist and forearm in an upwards motion when You must wear a the throw weight is at helmet and eye about 8:00 or 9:00 o’clock. protection when you do this. For higher shots with this throw, you can When using the throwline to place a line, stand on a bucket or other item to increase you generally will want to isolate a particu- the length of the string and gain more lar crotch or at least a particular area of the momentum on the swing. A variation of this tree. A number of methods can be used to throw is simply to tie the knot higher isolate the desired crotch. As you work and (above waist height) and use a different arm gain more experience with the throwline, movement to swing and drive the throw you will begin to recognize which trick(s) weight. Because the knot is above waist to use depending on the height and growth height, the arm and wrist have to move up habit of the tree and the system you are and down to swing the line. When ready to trying to install. In the following examples, throw, start to drive the weight when the I use a number of abbreviations to facilitate back swing is close to horizontal (about the discussion: tw = throw weight; tw1 = the 8:00 or 9:00 o’clock) and move the arm throw weight that was thrown; tw2 = the and wrist in more of an upwards motion throw weight on the other end of the line. than used in the previously described Sometimes your throw will be near, but method (Figure 1). This variation allows not over the target branch. For example, in higher throws without the need to stand on Figure 2 you want the line to isolate branch A, anything, but it requires different arm and but your throw lands on branch B—which is wrist movements in the swing, drive, and unsafe for climbing. One way to isolate branch release of the throw weight. It can take several A is to “walk” or “step” the throw weight. months of regular throwing to learn this if Walking or Stepping the Throw you are used to the other method. Weight Manipulating the Line 1. Pull tw1 into the tree, causing it to swing either by bouncing it on the Occasionally, the throw weight gets stuck in way up or by starting the swing with the tree. This situation most often occurs your hand before you pull the weight when attempting to pull the line out of the up into the tree (Figure 2a). tree after an errant throw. To reduce the chance of this happening, remove the 2. As tw1 approaches branch B, continue throw weight before you pull the string out the swing, then snap the string so that of the tree. This will not only reduce the tw1 goes over branch B, flies backwards, number of times that the throw weight gets and catches on branch A (Figure 2b). stuck, it also will eliminate the possibility of This technique also can work to move the throw weight flying uncontrollably out the throw weight up to a higher branch or of the tree and breaking a window, denting even to a branch or crotch that is across the a client’s car, or clunking you in the head. If canopy. The only caveat is that you must let the weight does get stuck and you want to the throw weight run. If you stop it abruptly, pull on the string without slicing your hand the weight may catch branch A (or some other open (and if there are no targets behind

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Climbers’ Corner branch) and wrap around it several times— string following the desired making it impossible to retrieve from the route to the ground, but you Figure 3. The loop trick. Let tw1 ground. are unable to get the second fall to the At other times, you may have the string leg of the string in the same ground in a over a suitable branch with one leg of the position (Figure 3). In this route that is situation, use the loop trick easy to repeat. Tie the rope to a dog-leash to get both legs in proper Figure 2a snap using a bullet knot alignment. and clip the dog-leash snap to the throwline just The Loop Trick above tw1. Pull the rope 1. Let tw1 fall to the ground and tw1 into the tree and in a route that is easy to just over the target branch. repeat. It does not matter if there are numerous branches between it and tw2. 2. Tie the rope to a dog-leash snap using a bullet knot or monkey’s fist. Let tw1 fall to the 3. Clip the snap to the throw- ground in the same path line just above tw1. that it followed the first time. 4. Pull the rope and tw1 into the tree and just over the target branch. 5. Let tw1 fall to the ground in the same path that it Figure 2b followed the first time (that is, it should parallel the rope). Tie the other end of 6. Tie the other end of the the rope to tw1. rope to tw1. 7. Pull tw1 (with the rope attached) into the tree up to the snap. 8. Pull both ends of rope to the ground. 9. Continue to pull both legs of the rope until it hangs on the target branch. Pull tw1 (with the rope attached) into On higher throws, the the tree up to the weight of the rope has a snap. tendency to pull the throwline out of the tree. This problem can be countered by tying a larger bullet knot, by clipping a carabiner into the Figure 2. Walking the throw weight. ring of tw1, or both. Snap the string so that the throw There will be times that, Pull both ends of the rope weight flips around the branch and once the rope is over the toward the desired crotch. With to the ground. Continue to practice, and in an open canopy, the desired branch, it is resting pull both legs of the rope throw weight can be directed to a some distance out on the until it hangs on the target branch that is above, below, or across branch rather than seated branch. from where it initially lands. directly in a crotch. If the

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Climbers’ Corner only thing that prevents the rope from slid- miss the first time, simply work the throw ing down toward the base of the branch is a weight back and forth using both ends of couple of small dead twigs, tie the ends of the string. Try adding a carabiner or a sec- the rope together using two double-over- ond throw weight for greater response. hand knots and pull this knotted rope into the tree to break the twigs. For slightly Throwlines can eliminate a great amount of bigger twigs or small stubs, use a jump stick. climbing and can be a big time saver, but Jump Stick they can sometimes be extremely frustrating. This problem should not discourage the Tie a sturdy stick in the rope using a clove newcomer from persevering and trying hitch or an in-line girth hitch and pull this again (and again and again). It will take time stick up to break the twig or stub (tie the to get a sense of when to try which technique. ends of the rope together so that one end is Practice and exposure to a wide variety of not inadvertently pulled off the ground). techniques will make you more proficient Experiment with tying the stick in the middle, and allow you to find a variety of tricks to at one end, or at both ends to achieve differ- suit your own particular style of climbing. ent reactions in the way it jumps. For stubs A future issue of Arborist News will feature that are too big to break, or if you are prun- other slick tricks. If you have ideas that you ing the tree and do not want to break a live would like to share, please write to me or to branch, combine two of these tricks (walk- the editor. Tell us about a particular way that ing and jump stick) to create a jump bag. you used a throwline to access or remove a Jump Bag tree in a tight situation. It is hoped that these With the throwline still in the tree, tie both tricks will serve as a springboard for creativity. ends of the string to one throw weight. Pull References the weight into the tree, swing it as it approaches Beraneck, G.F. 1996. Fundamentals of General the branch, and then snap the string so that Tree Work. Beraneck Publications, Ft. the weight flies over the stub or twig. If you Bragg, CA. Blair, D.F. 1999. Arborist Equipment: A Guide to the Tools and Equipment of Tree Maintenance and Removal, 2nd ed. International Society of Arbori- culture, Cham- paign, IL. Jepson, Jeff. 1999. Tre e Climber's Companion, 2nd ed. Beaver Tree Publishing, Longville, MN. A•N

Mark Adams is a Certified Arborist in Roswell, Georgia. He can be reached at adamsarborcare @att.net. The author wishes to thank Sean Gere for his suggestions and comments on this article.

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where you want the line to be. For example, CLIMBERS’ in Figure 1, you want the line to isolate branch 1. If you try to pull tw1 up and over C0RNER branch 2, then the throw weight will most likely flip over and fall below branch 1 as well. For the stick trick: 1. Tie the end of the rope to a dog-leash snap. Use a knot that is fairly large and heavy, such as a bullet knot, More Slick Tricks

By Mark Adams

n the April Climbers’ Corner, I discussed I various aspects of using a throwline. I suggested some possibilities for throwing and setting up the throwline and presented several methods of maneuvering the throw- 1. Tie the end of the rope to a dog-leash 2. Clip the snap to the throwline just above line in the tree to isolate a particular crotch. snap. Use a knot that is fairly large and tw2. The snap should be able to slide freely This article continues the discussion of heavy, such as a bullet knot, monkey’s along the string right up to the ring of tw2. manipulating the line and concludes with fist, throwing knot, or tightened hang- You may want to clip a steel carabiner to an example of how a throwline can be used man’s noose. the ring of tw2 to help the rope stay on the branch and to help manipulate the descent to help set lines in a specific situation. The of tw2. intent is to encourage greater use of throwlines, stimulate discussion, and inspire others to share their favorite ways of using this valuable tool. This article uses the following abbreviations: tl = throwline, tw = throw weight, tw1 = the weight that was thrown, and tw2 = the weight at the other end of the line. Stick Trick I’ll begin by revisiting the stick trick, an old and fairly well-known way of isolating a rope in a particular crotch. It is similar to the loop trick, which was introduced in the previous Climbers’ Corner, but it is used in different situations. The loop trick is used when the string is in the desired crotch, with one leg of the string in the route where you want the 3. Pull the rope into the tree until it is rope to go, but you cannot bounce the weight just over branch 1, then let tw2 fall 4. Pull tw1 into the tree so that it goes over to get the second leg parallel to the first. back to the ground. Remove the string from tw2 and tie it to tw1 to create a branch 2 and catches on the snap, then In contrast, the stick trick is used when continuous loop of throwline. pull the snap and rope to the ground. the throw goes over the target branch, plus other branches above or beside the point Figure 1. The stick trick.

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Climbers’ Corner (continued)

monkey’s fist, throwing knot, or tight- methods, and there is no point taking out a suitable for working or climbing, but often- ened hangman’s noose. second throwline when one will work well. times the line goes through or over more 2. Clip the snap to the throwline just than one strong crotch. When this happens, above tw2. The snap should be able to Two for One consider whether they can both be used. slide freely along the string right up to Even if the second crotch is not ideal for the ring of tw2. Now look back at Figure 2, steps 3 and 4, and working the whole tree, you might want to 3. Pull the rope into the tree until it is just note the separate throwlines over the two set a lowering line, speedline, or second over branch 1, then let tw2 fall back branches. You have just isolated two crotches climbing line for part of the tree and elimi- to the ground. with one toss of the throwline. Granted, in nate some additional throwing or climbing 4. Pull tw1 into the tree so that it goes over this example, one of these lines was not necessary to set that line. branch 2 and catches on the snap, then pull the snap and rope to the ground. In Figure 1, step 2, a steel carabiner has been clipped to the ring of tw2 to help the rope stay on the branch and to help manipulate the descent of tw2. In step 3, the string has been removed from tw2 and tied to tw1 to create a continuous loop of throwline. This setup can be helpful if there is a chance that tw1 will get hung up in step 4 when it is pulled over branch 1 and back to the snap. If branch 1 is somewhat high, the weight of the rope may pull the whole setup back down. Experience will help with judging when this situation may occur, but depending on the type of tree and configuration of the crotch, I find it begins to happen with shots in the range of 40 to 50 feet high. To counter this problem, you can add bights, turns, or both to create a bigger, heavier knot 1. Using a steel, locking carabiner, clip 2. Pull tw2 (with the carabiner and second to catch in the crotch. Or, rather than using one throw weight from the second throw- throwline attached) up and over branch 1. a rope in step 1, use another throwline and line to tw2 (on the first throwline). throw weight. The steps for this alternate stick trick are shown in Figure 2: 1. Using a steel, locking carabiner, clip the throw weight from the second throwline to tw2 (on the first throwline). 2. Pull tw2 (with the carabiner and second throwline attached) up and over branch 1. 3. Let the tw2–steel carabiner–second throwline unit fall to the ground, manipulating it as needed. 4. Unclip the carabiner from the two throw weights, tie the rope to the second throwline, and pull it into and through the crotch. The carabiner is necessary because of the added friction of the second throwline. This alternate stick trick can be very helpful for high shots when the rope would pull the 3. Let the tw2–steel carabiner–second 4. Unclip the carabiner from the two throw throwline out of the tree. But if you think throwline unit fall to the ground, weights, tie the rope to the second throw- that the rope will stay in the tree in Figure 2, manipulating it as needed. line, and pull it into and through the crotch. steps 2 and 3, use only one throwline. The rope has to be pulled into the tree for both Figure 2. Alternate stick trick. ∂

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Climbers’ Corner (continued) Swing Shot 1.–6. Tie a dog-leash snap to the climb- Another way to isolate two crotches with ing line using a bullet knot, monkey’s one throw or simply to move the throw fist, throwing knot, or tightened hangman’s noose. Clip the snap to the throw- weight in the tree is the swing shot. An line just above the throw weight already example of moving the throw weight is in the desired position (tw1 in this shown in Figure 3. The throw has landed example). Pull tw1 (with the climbing on the target branch. One leg of the string is line attached) into the tree, over the in the desired location, but there is a branch crotch, and down until it hangs slightly higher than the branch that prevents the that prevents the climber from bouncing string from getting parallel to the first. and swinging the weight to get the second Use the throwline to swing tw1. As tw1 leg parallel to the first. To manipulate the swings toward the target branch, let go second leg with the swing shot: of the throwline so that the trajectory of 1. Tie a dog-leash snap to the climbing tw1 carries it over the branch. Manipu- late tw1 as needed and let it fall to the line using a bullet knot, monkey’s fist, ground. throwing knot, or tightened hangman’s noose. 2. Clip the snap to the throwline just above the throw weight already in the desired position (tw1 in this example). 3. Pull tw1 (with the climbing line attached) into the tree, over the crotch, and down until it hangs slightly higher than the branch that prevents the string from getting parallel to the first. Note that if you let go of the string, tw1 will fall to the ground. 4. While you continue to hold the rope, use the throwline to swing tw1. 5. As tw1 swings toward the target branch, let go of the throwline so that the trajectory of tw1 carries it over the branch. 6. Manipulate tw1 as needed and let it fall to the ground. 7. Pull tw2 into the tree so that it catches the dog-leash snap, and pull the rope to the ground. This procedure can help get the throw weight around the trunk and is useful when 7. Pull tw2 into the tree so that it catches the dog-leash snap, and pull the rope to the ground. working through watersprouts and vines and going over branches that are so close to the Figure 3. Swing shot. target branch that you cannot get enough swing with the throw weight alone. You can also use the swing shot to manipulate first the desired branches, and the string is through similar, although slightly different, ways to one and then the other end of the rope to the second target crotch. Tie the second retrieve a stuck throw weight. They will not get the rope completely around the main rope to tw1 and pull it into the tree and over work in all circumstances, but they can save stem or trunk. Experiment with moving the the second crotch. The second rope will a bit of aggravation in some situations. bullet knot or dog-leash snap up and down catch on the dog-leash snap, and you can Take a look at Figure 4: to achieve different angles of swing when pull both ropes to the ground—one on the 1. Using a second throwline (the first you release the throw weight. If the original first crotch and one on the second. one is stuck in the tree), throw into a throw is through a good crotch and you want crotch somewhere above the stuck to use the swing shot to isolate a second crotch Retrieving a Throw throw weight. for another rope, proceed with steps 1 and 2 2. Remove tw2 from the second throw- as described above. In steps 3 to 5, swing Weight: The St. Bernard line, tie on a carabiner, and clip the the weight over the second crotch that you As I’ve mentioned, there will be times when carabiner around the first throwline. want to use. At step 6, the rope is on one of the throw weight gets stuck. Here are two

34 COPYRIGHT INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE ARBORIST•NEWS

Climbers’ Corner (continued)

3. Hold the stuck throwline steady, and 4. We took the end of the rope that was using the second throwline, pull the to be tied to the dead pine and tied a carabiner into the tree until it is close running bowline around the base of to the stuck throw weight. Bounce or the dead pine. pull the carabiner so that it lifts or 5. We used the matching end of the unwinds the stuck throw weight. throwline (that is, the one that was on the same side of the crotch as the dead For the variation of the St. Bernard: pine) and secured it to the bowline part 1. Place the second throwline. of the running bowline; thus, when we 2. Tie a loop or large slipknot in the pulled the running end of this throw- second throwline and tie the ends of line, it would widen the loop of the the second throwline together. running bowline. 3. Pull the loop into the tree and use it to 6. Then we secured a second throwline snag or lift the stuck throw weight. to the loop of the running bowline at This trick also can be used to loosen and the back side of the dead pine. lift hangers. Sean Gere told me that he once 7. We pulled the running end of the rope tied the loop as a slipknot and used the St. and the first throwline to, respectively, Bernard to retrieve a friction saver that had raise the running bowline and keep it inadvertently been left in a tree. open so that it would not tighten too 1.–2. Using a second throwline (the low on the trunk of the dead pine. first one is stuck in the tree), throw Another Useful Trick into a crotch somewhere above the The second throwline, at the back of I’ve described just some of the various ways a stuck throw weight. Remove tw2 from the dead pine, was used to pull the throwline can be used to facilitate working the second throwline, tie on a carabiner, back of the rope away from the trunk and clip the carabiner around the first so that the rope would “hop” up the with trees. Other tricks can be improvised as throwline. the situation requires. Such tricks might be tree and not get stuck on bits of bark used only once or twice a season, or you might and swollen collar areas. devise something that you find can be applied ∂ in many other circumstances. The following trick fits into the first category. It has been used only a handful of times in the last six or eight months. Nonetheless, it is very helpful, and some of the concepts could be applied to create more tricks for other situations. On one job last fall, two of a number of trees that were to be removed were dead. These were loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) trunks, 40 to 50 feet tall. They were too dead to climb and were located in a woodland garden, so there was no room to drop them whole. There was a live pine close enough and big enough that we wanted to individually “hang” the dead pines (that is, tie a rope near the top of the dead pine; thread the rope through a high, strong crotch of the live pine; cut 3. Hold the stuck throwline steady, the dead pine at its base; and then cut off and using the second throwline, pull short chunks until the pine was small enough the carabiner into the tree until it is to be laid onto the ground). But there were no close to the stuck throw weight. Bounce branches left on the dead pines on which to or pull the carabiner so that it lifts or unwinds the stuck throw weight. place a throwline (and then a rope) from the ground. We proceeded as follows (Figure 5): Figure 4. The St. Bernard. 1. We placed a throwline in a high, strong crotch of the live pine. 3. We pulled the rope and throwline into the 2. To one end of the throwline, we tied a tree and back to the ground, then untied rope and the other end of the same the throwline from the rope. The live throwline. pine now had one rope and one throwline in the same high, strong crotch.

JUNE 2001 COPYRIGHT INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE 35

Climbers’ Corner

As with any tool, the more you use a throwline, the more uses you will find for it. If you have some other slick tricks or have comments or suggestions regarding types of line, types of weights, methods of storage, or other throwing techniques, please share them. Log onto the ISA Web site discussion group (www.isa-arbor.com), send them to the editor of Arborist News, or e-mail them to me. New tricks, questions, or suggestions for future topics are always welcome. A•N

Mark Adams is a Certified Arborist in Roswell, Georgia. He can be reached at [email protected].

1.–2. Place a throwline in a high, strong 3. Pull the rope and throwline into the crotch of the live tree. To one end of the tree and back to the ground. throwline, tie a rope and the other end of the same throwline.

8. When the rope reaches the proper height, allow the running bowline to tighten on 4.–7. Take the end of the rope that is to the trunk, secure the running end of the be tied to the dead pine and tie a running rope to a lowering device, and cut the tree. bowline around the base of the dead pine. Both throwlines should be left loose and Secure the throwline to the bowline part allowed to come down as the tree is lowered. of the running bowline. Secure a second throwline to the loop of the running bowline at the back side of the dead 8. When the rope reached the proper pine. Pull the running end of the rope height, we allowed the running bow- and the first throwline to, respectively, raise the running bowline and keep it line to tighten on the trunk of the open so that it does not tighten too low dead pine, secured the running end of on the trunk of the dead pine. The sec- the rope to a lowering device, and cut ond throwline, at the back of the dead the dead pine. Both throwlines were pine, is used to pull the back of the rope left loose and came down as the pine away from the trunk so that the rope “hops” up the tree. was lowered.

Figure 5. Running a bowline.

36 COPYRIGHT INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ARBORICULTURE ARBORIST•NEWS CLIMBERS’ CORNER Speedline Variations: A Photo Essay, Part 1 By Mark Adams

This article is part one of a two-part photo essay on speedlines. Topics moved up the trunk as the climber works his or her way up the tree covered in this part include using a zipline, using a controlled speedline, (which requires a lot of extra work from the climber). tensioning a speedline with mechanical advantage, and lifting with the Running the rope through a crotch allows an arborist to set a control line. Part two will appear in the October issue of Arborist News speedline even in a very thick tree and, because the crew has access and will look at lifting with a third line, understanding the forces generated to both ends of the rope, provides the option of using the rope as by a speedline, and reducing forces on the tree. either a speedline or a lowering line. The disadvantage of a zipline is that there is no control over the Speedlines typically are used to move material away from a tree descent of the piece. Once the piece is cut, it immediately starts to because there is no suitable landing zone directly beneath the tree slide down the line and accelerates until it reaches the ground. and/or to move material to a chipper or staging area because it would For branches that are far to one side of or below where the speed- be too difficult or labor intensive to manually move the material across line is anchored, there is often a lot of slack in the line, and the piece the ground. may free fall some distance and/or uncontrollably swing from side Speedlines can be set up in many different configurations and may to side before the ground crew can tension the line and create the employ a variety of different ropes, slings, blocks, pulleys, carabiners, desired angle of fall (note the large bend in the line in Figure 1). and other types of tools and equipment. This article looks at some The crew can steer the branch to some degree, by moving the of the basic techniques and gear used to set up a speedline and rope from one side to the other, but there is no way to control the illustrates options for different scenarios that may be encountered speed of the descent of the piece other than to let the rope go slack in the field. as the piece nears the end of the run. As with any tree care operation, the safety of the crew and deter- A zipline works well in some situations, but at jobsites with mining whether the tree can withstand the potential forces are top fragile or well-manicured landscapes, complete control over every priority. piece that is cut is necessary. Zipline Controlled Speedline The simplest variety of a speedline is sometimes referred to as a zipline. The dead pine shown in Figure 2 was removed with a speedline, A line is secured in the top of the tree, a sling is choked to the branch and all of the brush was landed just to the right and in front of the that is to be cut, and Figure 1. A simple arbor in the rose garden in the foreground of the photo. the sling is connected speedline, or zipline. The descent of the material was controlled by adding a to the speedline with a second line, called a control line or haul-back line (in carabiner (Figure 1). essence, this line acts as a lowering line). When the branch is cut, A replica of the setup is shown in Figure 3. The top it immediately falls and line (blue) is the speedline, which is secured to the “zips” down the line to tree with a suitable knot. the ground. On the speedline is a double, fixed-sided pulley with The advantages of a steel carabiner attached to it. On the bottom end of this system are that it the steel carabiner is a rigging plate. On the tree below requires minimal equip- the speedline, a block is secured to the tree with a sling, ment, and it is fast and and the control line (pink) is run through the block. easy to set up. The fall of the control line goes to the ground to a The rope can be set Port-a-Wrap or other friction device. The lead of the con- from the ground with a trol line is tied to a steel carabiner, and this carabiner is throwline and secured also clipped to the rigging plate. Finally, there is a third with a running bowline carabiner clipped to the rigging plate; this carabiner is around either the trunk girth hitched to a webbing sling (shown in red in Figure 3). or a sturdy branch. Note: The color coding (blue = speedline, pink = Alternatively, the control line) is consistent throughout this article. rope can be run through a crotch and then down the back side of the When in use, the entire setup is moved down the speedline to tree. The end of the rope is then either pulled to the ground and the piece that is to be removed. The webbing sling is unclipped secured around the base of the tree (which may require a lot of rope) from the rigging plate, girth hitched around the piece, and clipped or fastened with a running bowline at the height of the climber and back on to the rigging plate (Figure 4).

40 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST•NEWS When the piece is cut, the whole setup, including the branch, slides down the speedline (blue), with the control line (pink) acting as a Figure 2. This dead pine was removed lowering line, which allows the ground crew to slow the descent of with a controlled the piece (Figure 5). Once the piece is on the ground, the sling is speedline. The removed from the branch and reattached to the rigging plate. The brush was carefully and precisely entire setup is then pulled back up the speedline (blue) with the landed in the rose control line (pink). garden, with no The equipment used for this technique should be chosen with damage to any of the surrounding care. The speedline pulley should be stable when sitting on the speed- landscape. line, and it should run smoothly both down and then back up the line. An arborist block tends to flip easily, and a rescue pulley sometimes pinches the line when the setup is pulled back up to the climber. In the setup shown here, the speedline pulley is a Petzl Tandem, a double, fixed-sided pulley with one sheave in front of the other (sometimes called a trolley). This pulley has small-diameter sheaves, sits low on the speedline, is well balanced, and has fixed cheek plates to avoid pinching the rope.

Figure 3. The setup of the equipment for a controlled speedline.

Figure 5. Lowering a branch with a controlled speedline.

The rigging plate is a Petzl Paw, which offers multiple attachment points (Figure 6). The steel carabiners are sturdy and add ballast to help prevent the system from flipping around the speedline. The block for the control line should be a standard arborist block (Figure 3). D

Figure 4. A controlled speedline attached to a branch.

Figure 6. A rigging plate allows attachment of all parts of the system, plus several branches.

AUGUST 2006 www.isa-arbor.com 41

Climbers’ Corner (continued) Figure 9. The speedline was tensioned with a Z-rig, a 3:1 mechanical advantage system, Tensioning a Speedline by Using using the speedline itself. Mechanical Advantage On some jobs, the landing zone may be far from the tree, and there may be obstacles over which the material has to pass on the speedline. In Figure 7, the dead pine on the left side of the photo is in the backyard of the house (not visible) beyond the house in the foreground of the photo. The landing zone is the driveway in front of that house, and the material had to remain in the air long enough and high enough to pass over the roof of that house and carport (Figure 8). The ground crew was not able to keep the material off the roof by tensioning the speedline by hand, so a pulley system was set up to provide additional pulling power. In this particular situation, the speedline itself was used to create a Z-rig, which is a 3-to-1 Lifting with the Control Line mechanical advantage system (Figure 9). Using two lines also allows a piece to be tip-tied and lifted, or rigged at both ends, lifted, and held parallel to the speedline as it is lowered Figure 7. The dead pine on the left is in the to the ground. This can be accomplished by girth hitching a sling backyard of the neighboring house (the roof of to the top of the branch and attaching this sling to the rigging plate the carport is just visible on the right at the very (Figure 10; with further details shown in Figures 14 and 15). bottom of the photo). All of the brush was speedlined to the driveway in front of the carport. A second sling is girth hitched to the butt end of the branch and attached to the speedline with a carabiner and a pulley, as shown in Figures 10, 14, and 15.

Figure 10. A sling (red, near top) is girth hitched to the top of the branch and attached to the rigging plate. A second sling (red, near bottom) is girth hitched to the bottom of the branch and clipped to a pulley on the speedline (blue). (Also see Figures 14 and 15.) The climber notches the branch Figure 8. A branch moves toward the block down the speedline and over of the control line. the carport (not visible in the photo).

The climber makes the notch so that it faces directly toward where the speedline and control line are attached to the tree and then makes the back cut to establish a hinge (Figure 10). The speedline is left completely slack (no tension, no wraps), but the control line is tensioned using a Good Rigging Control System (GRCS), a Hobbs’ Lifting and Lowering Device, or some type of pulley system until the top of the branch is pulled toward the anchor point of the control line (Figure 11).

42 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST•NEWS Figure 12. Tension is applied to the speedline (blue), which pulls the bottom of the branch (in the direction of the yellow arrow) to the middle of the tree.

Figure 14. Tension is released on the control line (pink), allowing the branch to slide down the speedline (blue) to the ground. The slings hold the branch parallel to the speedline so that the branch stays clear of all of the landscape plant material.

Figure 11. Tension is applied to the control line (pink), which pulls the top of the branch (in the direction of the yellow arrow) toward the control line block in Now the speedline is any obstacles the middle of the tree. tensioned so that the (Figure 14). This D butt end of the branch is should be done pulled toward the center with extreme of the tree (Figure 12). caution, making The speedline contin- sure there is not ues to be tensioned until so much tension the butt end of the branch that the anchor is away from the middle point in the tree of the tree and is pointed fails. D toward the landing zone (Figure 13). The control A line is now gradually released to allow the Figure 15. (a) Close-up of the branch to descend down top attachment the speedline. As the in Figure 14: branch descends, it may a sling (red) is girth hitched be necessary to add more to the top of the tension to the speedline branch and in order to keep the attached to the rigging plate. (b) branch traveling above Close-up of the bottom attachment in Figure 14: a sling (red) Figure 13. The speedline (blue) is girth hitched continues to be tensioned until the to the bottom of bottom of the branch (traveling in the branch and the direction of the yellow arrow) attached to a is lifted away from the middle of pulley on the the tree and is headed toward the speedline (blue). landing zone. B

AUGUST 2006 www.isa-arbor.com 43 Climbers’ Corner (continued) Resources A speedline can be a very useful—but also a fairly complicated and Tensioning with a pulley system (or some other hand-operated intricate—system. The techniques and equipment shown here illustrate device, such as a GRCS) allows the operator to closely monitor the just a few of the many configurations that are possible with a speedline. amount of tension and be very precise when making adjustments. Each component should be understood thoroughly before being Using any type of motorized machine (such as a skid-steer or applied and should first be used in easy, noncritical situations. chipper winch) to add tension can be very dangerous. It can be Additional information and training can be acquired through difficult to judge how much tension is being applied and, because study materials and/or professional, on-site training. Recommended these machines are so strong, it can be easy to overload the system resources are and cause a failure of some part of the tree. • Rigging for Removal (two-video set plus workbook). Available On the ground, the speedline ran through a redirect that was from TCIA. attached to the chipper (Figure 16) and was tensioned with a 5:1 • The Art and Science of Practical Rigging (video or DVD set plus fiddle block setup, which was anchored to and backed up with a workbook). Available from ISA. Port-a-Wrap. The chipper was used as an anchor simply because it • ArborMaster® Training, www.arbormaster.com was the only available option for the placement of the redirect. The • Arboriculture Canada Training and Education Ltd., redirect had to be unclipped from the chipper in order for the chip- www.arborcanada.com. per to be used, so the brush was staged and then chipped when • North American Tree Solutions (arboricultural education there was no more room in the landing zone. and training), [email protected]. The fiddle blocks are attached to the speedline with a split-tail • Tree Buzz (www.treebuzz.com). tied in a French Prusik (also see 3:1 setup in Figure 3). This allows the fiddle blocks to be easily repositioned as needed. In the past, people Mark Adams is an ISA Certified Arborist with Downey Trees, Inc., in the have used various types of ascenders as adjustable attachments. There Atlanta, Georgia, area. He is a frequent contributor to Climbers’ Corner. have been several instances of ascenders severing the rope, however, Photos courtesy of the author. so they are no longer recommended for this application.

Figure 16. The speedline (blue) ran through a redirect pulley (anchored to the chipper, in the photo on the right) and was tensioned with a 5:1 mechanical advantage system that was attached to the speedline with a French Prusik (photo on left). The mechanical advantage system was anchored to a Port-a- Wrap (out of view, to the left of the worker), which held and then released the tension generated by the 5:1.

44 www.isa-arbor.com ARBORIST•NEWS CLIMBERS’ CORNER Speedline Variations: A Photo Essay, Part 2 By Mark Adams This is the second installment in a two-part photo essay on speedlines. • the cable was not anchored high in the canopy, but about P a rt I appeared in the August issue of Arborist News magazine. To p i c s halfway up the main trunk of a stout oak; and that were covered in Part 1 included using a zipline, using a contro l l e d • t h e re was no climber in the tre e . speedline, tensioning a speedline with mechanical advantage, and lifting For these reasons, we felt that it was acceptable to use a tru c k - with the control line. This article discusses lifting with a third line, forc e s mounted winch to apply tension to the speedline. Tension was always generated by a speedline, and reducing forces on the tree. applied before the weight of the piece was on the line, and all parts of the system were continually monitored and inspected for indications Lifting with a Third Line of wear. No problems were ever noted with any part of the system. In some situations, a speedline can be used to move material that is The control/haul-back line (pink) was attached to the speedline a l ready on the ground. As shown in Figure 1, several trees had fallen p u l l e y, reeved through a re d i rect on the tree on the right side of the along the hillside on the right side of the photo. All of the debris photo, and directed down to a Port - a - Wrap mounted on the base of f rom these trees had to be moved to the cart path on the far left side the tree. A third line (green; called the lift line) was added to the system of the photo, but it had to be done without causing any impact or to drag the material across the hill and lift it onto the speedline. The disturbance to the turf. To accomplish this, we used a contro l l e d lift line was run through a Pro Traxion, which was also attached to speedline and incorporated a third line to drag and then lift the the speedline pulley. A Pro Traxion is a piece of equipment that has material so that it could be transported across the fairw a y. both a fre e - running sheave and a spring-loaded cam. (It is fancifully called a swing-sided, self-jamming pulley.) When the cam is engaged, F i g u re 1. The material from several trees had to be the rope moves freely in one direction but is held fast by the cam moved from the hill on the right, across the tees, to the cart path on the far left. when pulled in the opposite dire c t i o n . To move the material, the speedline pulley was pulled to the top of the speedline and held in place by the Port - a - Wrap and the contro l line. One end of the lift line was tied to the piece that was to be moved ( F i g u re 1); the other end of the lift line was attached to a mini skid s t e e r, which was then used to lift the piece into the air. Once the piece was in the air, the Pro Traxion held the material and allowed the lift line to be untied from the skid steer (Figure 2). The piece was then allowed to descend the speedline by re l e a s i n g tension on the control line (Figure 3). When the piece reached the end of the speedline, tension on the speedline was released, allowing the piece to be lowered and “caught” with the skid steer (Figure 4).

To eliminate stretch over the long distance that had to be covere d , a steel cable rather than a rope was used for the speedline (blue). The cable was attached by a sling to the trunk of the tree (right side of the photo), crossed the turf, went through a re d i rect pulley mounted on the back of the chipper truck (left side of the photo), and was tensioned with a winch on a truck that was parked behind the chipper truck (not visible in the photo). In Part 1 of this article, on page 44, it was stated Using any type of motorized machine . . . to add tension can be v e ry dangerous. It can be difficult to judge how much tension is being applied and, because these machines are so strong, it can be easy to overload the system and cause a failure of some part of the tre e . In this particular case, it is important to note that • the line that was being tensioned was a steel cable; there f o re , F i g u re 2. Material was lifted with a lift line (green). The system was held in place by the control line (pink). Both of these lines it was not necessary to try to compensate for stretch in the w e re attached to a pulley that ran on the (steel) speedline (blue). line—the cable was either tight or slack;

4 0 w w w. i s a - a r b o r. c o m A R B O R I S T •N E W S While it is relatively easy to place a dynamometer on a block and measure the force(s) involved in lowering pieces straight down with a single rope, it is much more complicated to take into account the several ropes and many angles involved in a speedline. (I have sometimes wondered if the equations and technical equipment used for tree risk assessment and tree statics could help us understand speedline forc e s . ) A speedline creates what engineers call a bending “moment” on the stem of the tree. Simply put, moment is the rotational movement caused by a force acting some distance from a pivot point. For exam- F i g u re 3. Material runs down the speedline (blue). The speed of ple, when a rope is used to pull over a tree, moment (the ro t a t i o n a l the descent of the piece is managed by the control line (pink). The piece is held in the air by the Pro Traxion and the lift line (gre e n ) . movement) is the tipping and falling of the tree, the force is cre a t e d by the pull of the rope, and the pivot point is the hinge. A speedline setup creates this same type of moment, or ro t a- F i g u re 4. At the end of the ru n , tional force. Any weak point (such as a cavity, split, decayed tru n k tension is released on the speedline f l a re, or other weakness) could become a failure point in the tree. (blue) and the control line (pink), It is absolutely imperative to remember that a speedline setup is and the piece is allowed to fall and be caught by a mini skid steer. exactly the same type of setup that we would use to intentionally pull over a tree. When working with a speedline, pieces should be small, and dynamic loading should be avoided or kept to a minimum. The following examples illustrate ways to reduce or eliminate speedline forces on the tree being removed. Reducing Forces on the Tre e One way to reduce the stress that a speedline imparts on the tree is to use an adjacent tree for added support. The speedline can be placed in a pulley set in the tree or crotch of the tree that is being re m o v e d , run through a sturdy crotch in a neighboring tree, and then anchore d at the base of that tree (Figure 5). This creates more compre s s i o n , rather than bending, on the removal tree; adds more rope to the system (so that there is more stretch); and imparts some of the speedline tension to the neighboring tree. Another option is to anchor the speedline to the removal tree (as with a normal speedline setup), tie a second line to the re m o v a l The process was repeated and used to remove all of the wood and t ree, run this second line through a sturdy crotch in a neighboring b rush from several trees on the hillside without causing any disturbance t ree, and secure the second line at the base of the neighboring tre e . to the finely maintained turf. (This project earned Downey Trees, Inc., a If two lines are used, they should be anchored closely together in Grand Aw a rd for Excellence in Arboriculture from the Tree Care Industry the removal tree. If the lines are tied too far apart, they can create a Association. A more detailed description of the project can be found in shear force and cause failure of part of the tree. the article Technical Rigging: Setting a Speedline, which appeared in the T h e re may be times when the best option for removing a tree is M a rch 2006 issue of TCI Magazine). to use a speedline, but the tree has an obvious or suspected stru c- tural flaw. If a tree is deemed too hazardous to have any part of the F o r ces Generated by a Speedline speedline system attached directly to the tree itself, it may be possi- A speedline imparts complicated forces on the rigging and on the ble to use adjacent tree(s) to set up the entire system. t ree, and these forces are not well understood. There have been many In Figure 6, the dead tree in the middle of the photo was to be discussions and calculations for determining the forces that are gen- removed without damaging any of the understory. The material was erated by a speedline, but none of these seem to arrive at the same to be left in an open area that was downhill and to the right of the a n s w e r, and all seem to have a slightly diff e rent understanding of dead tree (the “black hole” at the bottom right of the photo). the many variables that are involved. The late Peter Donzelli, who The tree had been dead for an unspecified amount of time, had was an engineer and an ISA Certified Arborist, once wro t e , a trunk lean of approximately 15 to 20 degrees to the right, and Many people have asked me to try my hand at this calculation. had all of its canopy weight on the same side as the lean. A speed- As much as I have tried, I don’t yet understand it to my own line seemed to be the best way to dismantle the dead tree and move satisfaction, and don’t want to pass off bad information. the material, but the tree was judged too weak to withstand the f o rces involved with a speedline. . . . [T]he initial rope tension and stretch (engineers would talk The problem was solved by placing the speedline (blue) in the about rope stiffness, the ability to resist stretch) . . . is the key l a rge oak to the left of the removal tree. The ground sloped quite t o solving for the forces in a speedline. Problem is that it now steeply from the large oak, to the dead tree, to the open area; this becomes more complicated than just vector diagrams; there are topography is really what made the entire setup possible (the slope of d i ff e rential equations involved. Just as important, though are the terrain is approximately the same as the slope of the speedline). some experiments to validate the equations. OCTOBER 2006 4 1 Climbers’ Corner (continued) F i g u re 6. This speedline was d i rected over and through the The speedline was set in the top of the oak and directed so that it dead tree, but it never placed went just over and through the canopy of the dead tree (Figures 6, 7, any force on the dead tree itself. and 8). At the bottom of the run, the speedline went through a re d i re c t pulley that was set about 40 feet above the ground in a tree on the far side of the open area. Note that at the far right end of the run, the speed-

F i g u re 7. Looking up the line fro m F i g u re 5. This speed- the landing zone. line (blue) has been The large oak is run through a cro t c h behind the in the removal tre e , c l i m b e r. then run into the canopy and anchore d at the base of an adjacent tre e . line first becomes level and then starts to go up again (Figures 6 and 9) and then down to a Port - a - Wrap (Figure 10). We were pre p a red to set up a mechanical advantage system for use with the Port - a - Wrap but found that we were able to tension the line adequately without one. This technique was, in essence, a zipline. The climber girt h hitched a sling to the middle of the limb (to minimize how far the limb would hang down) and clipped the sling to the speedline with a carabiner (Figure 11). The piece slid down the line and over the u n d e r s t o ry (Figure 12). When the piece reached the open are a , tension was released on the Port - a - Wrap, allowing the piece to fall to the ground (Figure 13). The same pro c e d u re was used for the smaller pieces of the top of the spar (Figure 14). The larg e r-diameter pieces of the spar were cut in short lengths and dropped at the base of the tree. This system put no stress on the dead tree and still allowed us to easily move the material to the bottom of the hill.

4 2 w w w. i s a - a r b o r. c o m A R B O R I S T •N E W S F i g u re 11. A sling is girt h F i g u re 8. One end of the hitched to a limb and speedline was run thro u g h clipped on the speedline the canopy of the large oak with a carabiner. on the left and anchored at its base. The speedline was then directed over and t h rough the canopy of the dead tree, . . .

F i g u re 9. . . . followed the slope of the terr a i n down the hill, was re e v e d t h rough a re d i re c t F i g u re 12. The limb is pulley about 40 feet off cut and then slides/zips the ground, . . . down the speedline.

R e s o u r c e s A speedline can be a very useful—but also a fairly complicated and intricate—system. The techniques and equipment shown here illustrate just a few of many configurations that are possible with a F i g u re 10. . . . and speedline. Each component should be understood thoro u g h l y descended to a Port - a - Wr a p b e f o re being applied and should first be used in easy, noncritical that held tension in the line. situations. Additional information and training can be acquired thro u g h study materials and/or professional, on-site training. Recommended re s o u rces are • Rigging for Removal (two-video set plus workbook). Av a i l a b l e f rom TCIA.

OCTOBER 2006 w w w. i s a - a r b o r. c o m 4 3 Climbers’ Corner (continued)

F i g u re 13. When the limb is • The Art and Science of above the landing zone, Practical Rigging ( e i g h t - tension is released on the video set plus workbook; speedline, . . . also available as DVD). Available from ISA. • A r b o r M a s t e r ® Tr a i n i n g , w w w. a r b o rm a s t e r. c o m • A r b o r i c u l t u re Canada Training and Education L t d . , w w w. a r b o rc a n a d a . c o m . • N o rth American Tre e Solutions (arboricultural education and F i g u re 14. . . . and training), scottp@ the piece is lowere d n o rt h a m e r i c a n t re e . c o m . to the gro u n d . • Tree Buzz (www. t re e b u z z . c o m ) .

Mark Adams is an ISA Certified Arborist with Downey Trees, Inc., in the Atlanta, Georgia, area. He is a frequent contributor to Climbers’ Corn e r. All photos except Figure 5 courtesy of the author. Photo in Figure 5 courtesy Bill Shakespeare, New England Ropes; and Mark Chisholm, Aspen Tree Expert s .

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