Tips From the Canopy - Posts - Sherrilltree

TFTC #54 Establishing Patient Contact as an Arborist Rescuer

Arborculture Canada Training and Education LT by DJ Neustater Sep 5th 2025

When a powerful storm hits, it doesn’t just leave behind puddles and broken fences—it leaves twisted branches, uprooted trees, and dangling limbs that pose serious safety risks. Storm tree cleanup isn’t just hard … read more about <span>TFTC #54</span> Establishing Patient Contact as an Arborist Rescuer

TFTC #53 Built for the Rig: Rope Logic Streaked Rigging Slings

Sherrilltree Sep 5th 2025

When a powerful storm hits, it doesn’t just leave behind puddles and broken fences—it leaves twisted branches, uprooted trees, and dangling limbs that pose serious safety risks. Storm tree cleanup isn’t just hard … read more about <span>TFTC #53</span> Built for the Rig: Rope Logic Streaked Rigging Slings

TFTC #52 Behind the Build: Chainsaw Chaps

Sherrilltree Aug 7th 2025

When a powerful storm hits, it doesn’t just leave behind puddles and broken fences—it leaves twisted branches, uprooted trees, and dangling limbs that pose serious safety risks. Storm tree cleanup isn’t just hard … read more about <span>TFTC #52</span> Behind the Build: Chainsaw Chaps

TFTC #51 Climbing giants: Inside the rare world of Giant Sequoia science

Sherrilltree Aug 7th 2025

When a powerful storm hits, it doesn’t just leave behind puddles and broken fences—it leaves twisted branches, uprooted trees, and dangling limbs that pose serious safety risks. Storm tree cleanup isn’t just hard … read more about <span>TFTC #51</span> Climbing giants: Inside the rare world of Giant Sequoia science

FAQ Changes to the Rope Runner Vertec

Sherrilltree Aug 7th 2025

When a powerful storm hits, it doesn’t just leave behind puddles and broken fences—it leaves twisted branches, uprooted trees, and dangling limbs that pose serious safety risks. Storm tree cleanup isn’t just hard … read more about <span>FAQ</span> Changes to the Rope Runner Vertec

TFTC #50 Inspecting Your Arborist Gear: A Checklist

Sherrilltree Jul 17th 2025

When a powerful storm hits, it doesn’t just leave behind puddles and broken fences—it leaves twisted branches, uprooted trees, and dangling limbs that pose serious safety risks. Storm tree cleanup isn’t just hard … read more about <span>TFTC #50</span> Inspecting Your Arborist Gear: A Checklist

Silky Launches New Katanaboy 550 and 700: Big Saws for Bigger Jobs

Sherrilltree Jul 10th 2025

Since its debut in 2009, the Silky Katanaboy 500 has been the go-to handsaw for serious cutting—powerful enough to rival a chainsaw. This is part three of the top tools every climber needs. We've covered saddles, climbin … read more about Silky Launches New Katanaboy 550 and 700: Big Saws for Bigger Jobs

TFTC #49 Emergency Response Plan & Scene Assessment

Arborculture Canada Training and Education LT by DJ Neustater Jul 1st 2025

With so many advances in modern tree care equipment, the most uncertain part of a climbing system is often your anchor point in the tree. This is part three of the top tools every climber needs. We've covered saddles, climbing … read more about <span>TFTC #49</span> Emergency Response Plan & Scene Assessment

TFTC #48 Tree climber Rescue & emergency preparedness: Arborist Rescue Scenarios

Arborculture Canada Training and Education LT by DJ Neustater Jun 16th 2025

With so many advances in modern tree care equipment, the most uncertain part of a climbing system is often your anchor point in the tree. This is part three of the top tools every climber needs. We've covered saddles, climbing … read more about <span>TFTC #48</span> Tree climber Rescue & emergency preparedness: Arborist Rescue Scenarios

Notch Six Pack – Behind the Design with inventor Terry Banyard

Sherrilltree Jun 12th 2025

With so many advances in modern tree care equipment, the most uncertain part of a climbing system is often your anchor point in the tree. This is part three of the top tools every climber needs. We've covered saddles, climbing … read more about Notch Six Pack – Behind the Design with inventor Terry Banyard

TFTC #47 Tree Care Companies: Prepare for Storm Season with Preventative Maintenance

Sherrilltree Jun 9th 2025

With so many advances in modern tree care equipment, the most uncertain part of a climbing system is often your anchor point in the tree. This is part three of the top tools every climber needs. We've covered saddles, climbing … read more about <span>TFTC #47</span> Tree Care Companies: Prepare for Storm Season with Preventative Maintenance

TFTC #46 Tree Climber Rescue & Emergency Preparedness: What could happen? What to do.

Arborculture Canada Training and Education LT by DJ Neustater Jun 6th 2025

With so many advances in modern tree care equipment, the most uncertain part of a climbing system is often your anchor point in the tree. This is part three of the top tools every climber needs. We've covered saddles, climbing … read more about <span>TFTC #46</span> Tree Climber Rescue & Emergency Preparedness: What could happen? What to do.

TFTC #45 Storm Tree Cleanup: The Gear Behind the Grind

Sherrilltree May 14th 2025

When a powerful storm hits, it doesn’t just leave behind puddles and broken fences—it leaves twisted branches, uprooted trees, and dangling limbs that pose serious safety risks. Storm tree cleanup isn’t just hard … read more about <span>TFTC #45</span> Storm Tree Cleanup: The Gear Behind the Grind

TFTC #44 Spring Tree Care

Sherrilltree May 1st 2025

As winter fades and your landscape begins to wake up, it’s the perfect time to give your trees a boost. Spring fertilization is one of the best things you can do to ensure healthy, vigorous growth through the season—and … read more about <span>TFTC #44</span> Spring Tree Care

TFTC #43 5 tips for talking to customers about proper pruning

Sherrilltree Apr 16th 2025

It doesn’t matter if you’re a solo operator or part of a large crew, every job starts with a customer conversation. Don’t dread the conversation—it’s the only way to learn exactly what the customer want … read more about <span>TFTC #43</span> 5 tips for talking to customers about proper pruning

TFTC #42 Make your climbs more efficient with these planning tips

Sherrilltree Mar 27th 2025

“Get in the tree and we’ll figure it out” is no way to work if you want to save time and reduce wear and tear on your body, your equipment, and your crew. Yes, planning for maximum efficiency takes more up-front ef … read more about <span>TFTC #42</span> Make your climbs more efficient with these planning tips

TFTC #41 How to Rope Walk with Ascenders

Jeff Inman Oct 24th 2024

When it comes to more modern ways of ascending, the use of mechanical ascenders has had a profound impact on the way we climb into trees. Largely coming to us from other rope disciplines, the ascender's sole purpose is to consistent … read more about <span>TFTC #41</span> How to Rope Walk with Ascenders

TFTC #40 Should I Use SENA Communications for Tree Care?

Jeff Inman Sep 18th 2024

To SENA or not to SENA…that is the question! Is it though? If you like speaking in a normal tone of voice, clearly communicating to your fellow workers, and maybe even enjoy the ease of taking or making phone calls without pu … read more about <span>TFTC #40</span> Should I Use SENA Communications for Tree Care?

How to Use the Adjustable Bridges on a DMM Kinisi Max

Sherrilltree Jun 1st 2024

The DMM Kinisi Max Saddle features a unique double bridge setup with patented cams for precise adjustment. DMM Technical Representative Taylor Hamel demonstrates a few of the ways arborists can use an adjustable bridge to make tr … read more about How to Use the Adjustable Bridges on a DMM Kinisi Max

How to Adjust a Rock Exotica Akimbo

Sherrilltree Jun 1st 2024

The Rock Exotica Akimbo is an innovative SRS and MRS climbing and work positioning device for tree climbers. Developed by arborist Jaime Merritt, it's mid-line attachable and adjustable without any tools. Mason from Rock Exotica … read more about How to Adjust a Rock Exotica Akimbo

Winter Tree Care Tips to Stay Warm

Sherrilltree Feb 2nd 2024

When working in cold weather, it's all about layers and creating air in the layers. This is easy when working on the ground, but it can be difficult when you need to wear a harness and climb. Here are a few tips for staying warm and dry when … read more about Winter Tree Care Tips to Stay Warm

Chainsaw How To: Ergonomic Stance

Husqvarna Jun 23rd 2023

Learn proper techniques from a Husqvarna trainer on correct chainsaw handling including tips for proper working positi … read more about Chainsaw How To: Ergonomic Stance

How to Perform Weekly Maintenance on a Chainsaw

Husqvarna Jun 23rd 2023

Learn how to properly maintain your chainsaw with Jeff Perry, a professional arborist and member of the Husqvarna H-Team. Follow along as he demonstrates essential weekly maintenance tasks on the Husqvarna 120 Mark II chainsaw. W … read more about How to Perform Weekly Maintenance on a Chainsaw

Pole Tools Periodic Inspection Checklist

Notch Equipment Jun 7th 2023

Pole tool inspection is not only a compliance requirement but also good practice to ensure proper function and protection for workers. This blog … read more about Pole Tools Periodic Inspection Checklist

Choosing the Right Climbing Spikes

Sherrilltree Jun 1st 2023

Looking for a set of Spikes, Climbers or Gaffs? Start here before you buy to help you find the right product for you. No matter what you call them, we are talking about how to understand all the different types, models, and aspects of them. … read more about Choosing the Right Climbing Spikes

How To Start a Chainsaw for the First Time

Husqvarna May 25th 2023

This simple video guide shows you how to start a Husqvarna chainsaw. … read more about How To Start a Chainsaw for the First Time

Silky NATA Hatchet: Like a Machete, But Better

Silky Saws May 23rd 2023

One of the more unusual tools in Silky’s lineup is the NATA Hatchet. It’s the weight of a short-handled ax … read more about Silky NATA Hatchet: Like a Machete, But Better

How To Tighten the Chain on a Chainsaw

Husqvarna May 23rd 2023

Watch as professional arborist and Husqvarna H-Team member Jeff Perry walks you through the simple process of chain tensioning on a Husqvarna 120 Mark II chainsaw. Content provided by Husqvarna Shop Bars & … read more about How To Tighten the Chain on a Chainsaw

How To Assemble the Bar and Chain on a Chainsaw

Husqvarna May 16th 2023

Do you need to replace a chainsaw chain or tighten a chainsaw chain? Watch as professional arborist and Husqvarna H-Team member Jeff Perry walks you through the simple process of assembling a chainsaw guide bar and chain on a Hus … read more about How To Assemble the Bar and Chain on a Chainsaw

Rope Care & Handling

Samson Rope May 16th 2023

The use of rope for any purpose subjects it to varying levels and modes of tension, bending, friction, and mechanical damage, as well as a wid … read more about Rope Care & Handling

How To Use The NAJA Friction Saver

Petzl Apr 26th 2023

The NAJA is a friction saver for tree care that is easily retrievable from the ground, with an integrated pulley and a strap with different ad … read more about How To Use The NAJA Friction Saver

Demystifying Saw Blades

Silky Saws Apr 25th 2023

There are a number of factors that make a saw good for one job and sub-optimal for another. Here we dive into the basics to help you hone in on … read more about Demystifying Saw Blades

TFTC #38 Caring For Your Silky Saw

Silky Saws Aug 9th 2022

How To Clean Your Silky Saw Blade Always make sure your Silky blade is dry before you store your saw. Periodicall … read more about <span>TFTC #38</span> Caring For Your Silky Saw

Climbing Systems Guide: DRT and SRT Climbing Systems

Sherrilltree May 20th 2022

When looking at tree climbing systems there are many choices in climbing gear and climbing methods, and it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Arborists are … read more about Climbing Systems Guide: DRT and SRT Climbing Systems

TFTC #36 3 Big Questions about Replacing Rope Bridges

Sherrilltree Apr 21st 2022

Floating bridges transformed work positioning comfort and maneuverability for climbers. No wonder all modern saddles feature some style of bridge. The rope bridge offers compatibility with a large range of hardware, while also being … read more about <span>TFTC #36</span> 3 Big Questions about Replacing Rope Bridges

TFTC #35 Top 10 Tools Every Climber Needs: Part 3

Sherrilltree Nov 15th 2021

This is part three of the top tools every climber needs. We've covered saddles, climbing lines, a climbing system, loop runners, carabiners, foot ascenders, lanyards, and helmets, handsaws. Let's get into part three of the top … read more about <span>TFTC #35</span> Top 10 Tools Every Climber Needs: Part 3

TFTC #34 Top 10 Tools Every Climber Needs: Part 2

Sherrilltree Oct 28th 2021

Let's get into part two of the top tools every climber needs. In part one, we coverered saddles, climbing lines, climbing systems, and loop runners. Be sure to check out part one, and stay tuned for part three! Let's get into … read more about <span>TFTC #34</span> Top 10 Tools Every Climber Needs: Part 2

TFTC #33: Top 10 Tools Every Climber Needs: Part 1

Sherrilltree Oct 20th 2021

Whether you’re buying your first climbing kit, or putting kits together for new climbers on your team, the hardest part is making sure … read more about TFTC #33: Top 10 Tools Every Climber Needs: Part 1

TFTC #31: How to Buy the Best Climbing Gear for You

Sherrilltree Sep 10th 2021

This could be the most difficult job you’ll ever have. But, if you stick with it long enough, it might become the best job you’ll ever have. Sadly, most ground workers don't last very long. The majority quit within the f … read more about TFTC #31: How to Buy the Best Climbing Gear for You

TFTC #30 Competition Climbing With Derrick Martin: Part 2

Sherrilltree Aug 5th 2021

We spoke with Derrick Martin about competitions. You recently competed at the NAOM event that took place in Williamsburg, VA. What is NAOM like? NAOM is a really unique competition. Chris Coates designed it so that everybody ge … read more about <span>TFTC #30</span> Competition Climbing With Derrick Martin: Part 2

TFTC #29 When Purchasing Arborist Equipment...

Sherrilltree Jul 22nd 2021

Making a purchase doesn't have to be as difficult as you might think. Whether you're looking for something that's simple and efficient, or ergonomic and versatile, ask yourself these questions below next time you're deciding on whic … read more about <span>TFTC #29</span> When Purchasing Arborist Equipment...

TFTC #28 Contract Climbing With Derrick Martin: Part 1

Sherrilltree Jul 13th 2021

We spoke with Derrick Martin about his general approach to contract climbing and safety. When did you start contract climbing? I went out full time in June of 2020. I started part-time in September or October before that. The … read more about <span>TFTC #28</span> Contract Climbing With Derrick Martin: Part 1

TFTC #27 A Must Have (but hope to never use) Kit

Sherrilltree Jun 10th 2021

Several shiny tools and devices beckon us to click Buy Now! Mechanical hitches, ascenders, swivels, and such make our lives easier while we’re aloft, but what about first aid kits? The excitement dies, right? I mean, it&rsquo … read more about <span>TFTC #27</span> A Must Have (but hope to never use) Kit

TFTC #26 Make Hydration Happen

Sherrilltree May 20th 2021

As spring turns to summer and busy season kicks into overdrive, every tailgate safety meeting happening right now is about hydration. Many are lea … read more about <span>TFTC #26</span> Make Hydration Happen

TFTC #25 Different Ways to Ascend a Tree

Video Apr 29th 2021

Daryl Stanley, arborist and trainer, demonstrates four different ways to ascend a tree as we discuss the pros and cons of each method. #TipsFromTheCanopy #TFTC .blog-thumbnail img { display: none !important; max … read more about <span>TFTC #25</span> Different Ways to Ascend a Tree

TFTC #24 Mark Chisholm on Cutting

Sherrilltree Apr 1st 2021

We got the chance to interview Mark Chisholm, Director of Operations at Aspen Tree Expert Co., about his general approach to cutting. window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_ELEMENTS = window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_ELEMENTS || new Array(); windo … read more about <span>TFTC #24</span> Mark Chisholm on Cutting

TFTC#23 Phil Kelley on Rigging

Sherrilltree Mar 24th 2021

This year for the 2021 Master catalog, we got the chance to interview several leaders in the arborist community about their knowledge on different subject matters. We spoke with Phil Kelley, Wright Tree Safety Team Lead, about his g … read more about <span>TFTC#23</span> Phil Kelley on Rigging

TFTC #22 Ryan Torcicollo on Climbing

Sherrilltree Mar 18th 2021

We spoke with Ryan Torcicollo, General Tree Care Talent Developer at SavATree, about his general approach to climbing. window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_ELEMENTS = window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_ELEMENTS || new Array(); window.SHOGUN_IMAGE_ … read more about <span>TFTC #22</span> Ryan Torcicollo on Climbing

TFTC #21 Jared Abrojena on Ropes

Sherrilltree Mar 11th 2021

This year for the 2021 Master catalog, we got the chance to interview several leaders in the arborist community about their knowledge on different subject matters. We spoke with Jared Abrojena, owner of Evergreen Tree Care (ETC) an … read more about <span>TFTC #21</span> Jared Abrojena on Ropes

TFTC #20 Tyler Zuniga on PPE

By Daryl Stanley Feb 25th 2021

This year for the 2021 Master catalog, we got the chance to interview several leaders in the arborist community about their knowledge on different subject matters. We spoke with NATS lead instructor Tyler Zuniga to find out what … read more about <span>TFTC #20</span> Tyler Zuniga on PPE

TFTC #19 Wound Dressing Protocols

by Travis Vickerson Jul 31st 2020

So the unthinkable happens! Maybe it’s a skin sacrifice to the Silky handsaw gods, or even suffered the fate of a turning chainsaw chain on unprotected skin. What now! Due to the inherent tearing forces of chainsaw chains, … read more about <span>TFTC #19</span> Wound Dressing Protocols

TFTC #18 Arboriculture – Is it an Occupation or a Profession?

by Travis Vickerson Jul 16th 2020

First, we have to understand the distinction between the two terms, and how these two words correspond to what we call &ldquo … read more about <span>TFTC #18</span> Arboriculture – Is it an Occupation or a Profession?

TFTC #17 Reducing Force in a Rigging System

North American Training Solutions Jun 18th 2020

Introduction Rigging for a production arborist can be challenging and complicated. Simple natural branch union rigging scenarios using only rope and tree parts, while sometimes still appropriate, have been improved on. Now … read more about <span>TFTC #17</span> Reducing Force in a Rigging System

TFTC #16: Ground Support for Tree Care

North American Training Solutions May 27th 2020

A climber is only as good as his or her ground crew. Like so many things in life, safe, efficient tree care is a team event. Like all teams, every member must be on board with the game plan and willing to execute it, or possibl … read more about TFTC #16: Ground Support for Tree Care

TFTC #15 Tree Climber's Checklist

North American Training Solutions Apr 29th 2020

The act of climbing a tree for production arboriculture is a complex task that should be treated with planning and preparation. The amount of tools and techniques available for the modern climbing arborist is vast and growing. T … read more about <span>TFTC #15</span> Tree Climber's Checklist

TFTC #14 Are chainsaw pants worth the expense?

Brandon Nance Sep 30th 2019

Have you noticed, over the last couple years, chainsaw protective pants rising in popularity? No longer are we limited to sup … read more about <span>TFTC #14</span> Are chainsaw pants worth the expense?

TFTC #39 Inspecting Your Rope Runner Pro With Krista Strating

Sherrilltree Aug 6th 2019

The Notch Rope Runner Pro is the ultimate SRS mechanical tool. Krista Strating, certified arborist and Notch ambassador, goes over how to inspect your device. Always make sure to check your equipment daily and before every climb. … read more about <span>TFTC #39</span> Inspecting Your Rope Runner Pro With Krista Strating

TFTC #13 Maintaining Your Carabiners

This industry is great at many things, especially putting gear through its paces. Yes, some arborist … read more about <span>TFTC #13</span> Maintaining Your Carabiners

TFTC #12: Make Gear Inspection Your #1 Safety Habit

Sherrilltree Jun 21st 2019

It is well known that the tree care industry is not the safest of work environments. Our decisions can make it dangerous. From January to May, 2019, there were 50 confirmed fatalities (according to reports on Dripline.net). And th … read more about <span>TFTC #12:</span> Make Gear Inspection Your #1 Safety Habit

TFTC #11 The Mechanical Advantage: Pt. II

Brandon Nance Apr 18th 2019

In the last installment, we ventured down the road of Mechanical Advantage and discussed “Working Smarter (safer) and harder” in relation to the job site. For this entry, we’ll dive into Mechanical Advantage and which gear we … read more about <span>TFTC #11</span> The Mechanical Advantage: Pt. II

TFTC #10 Tips From The Canopy Enters The Master Catalog!

Brandon Nance Mar 12th 2019

One of the biggest projects every year is the SHERRILLtree Master Catalog (which showcases our huge selection of climbing equipment) and we are truly excited to debut in the 2019 Catalog and some of the new features within. Not only does the ca … read more about <span>TFTC #10</span> Tips From The Canopy Enters The Master Catalog!

TFTC #8 Get Mechanically Inclined in your tree work

Brandon Nance Jan 22nd 2019

In every job, completing a task safely and efficiently is at the top of the priority list. Wouldn't you agree? a.tftc_link { color: #003b4a; text-decoration: underline; } .img-responsivegallery-image, .cmspro_news_ … read more about <span>TFTC #8</span> Get Mechanically Inclined in your tree work

TFTC #7 Work Positioning Done Right

Sherrilltree Dec 18th 2018

Does the following sound familiar? You’re working in a tree, and the comfort level for making a cut is anything but confidence inspiring. In these moments, it becomes apparent that we need to gain more experience, approach th … read more about <span>TFTC #7</span> Work Positioning Done Right

TFTC #5 Efficiency with Friction Savers

Friction is something we encounter on every job site, and it is either working for us or against us. It can be o … read more about <span>TFTC #5</span> Efficiency with Friction Savers

TFTC #6 Maximizing your Climbing System Efficiency

Sherrilltree Oct 11th 2018

One quote I heard early on and have kept in the back of my mind comes from Tony Tresselt. Tony is a well experienced arborist, trainer, author, and all-around great guy. The guy is wicked with a chainsaw and he has probably forgo … read more about <span>TFTC #6</span> Maximizing your Climbing System Efficiency

TFTC #4 A Rope is a Rope... Or is it? (Part 3)

Through the last couple of posts, we have looked at several factors that affect ropes. We first looked at rope constructio … read more about <span>TFTC #4</span> A Rope is a Rope... Or is it? (Part 3)

TFTC #3 A Rope is a Rope... Or is it (Part 2)

As part of this series on rope, we will get into the materials, technology and other specifics that work together to create ou … read more about <span>TFTC #3</span> A Rope is a Rope... Or is it (Part 2)

TFTC #2 A Rope is a Rope... Or is it?

Brandon Nance Aug 23rd 2018

I am unsure where I first heard it, but I remember being told earlier in life that a rope is a rope until it is given a function or job, such as c … read more about <span>TFTC #2</span> A Rope is a Rope... Or is it?