Recreational tree-climbing
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The latest idea to surface on the Isle of Wight – that melting pot of crazy schemes – is recreational tree climbing. What a fantastic idea. The Ranger, when considerably younger and nimbler, loved to climb trees and just sit up in the branches. In fact, (harp music as screen goes all wobbly) he even had a romantic encounter with his first girlfriend high up in a particularly fine horse-chestnut tree. So the idea of recreational tree climbing seems like an attractive one. The Ranger wishes this new venture many happy ascents, and even happier descents. 
I suppose the fun and danger of just clambering up a tree will be slightly alloyed by the paraphernalia of doing so safely – ropes, helmets, harnesses, etc. – but to imagine it without is probably just wishful thinking. If people want to be dangerous up trees, nobody will stop them, and they aren’t really likely to seek professional assistance to do so. No, there’s no reason to carp, because anyone can now be hoisted into a tree, from the oldest granny to the youngest infant – anyone who feels the atavistic urge to swing from the branches can do so, if the responsible professionals on the end of the rope approve. Jolly good show!
hi, im currently have one more exame to pass until im a qualified tree surgeon. I’d just like to ask, are you aloud to just go recreational tree climbing, I’ve always loved it but not sure if you can just pick a tree and go climb. Can you help?
Thanks
Ian Williams
The Ranger responds: there’s no legal restriction on tree climbing as such, but you’d need the consent of the tree’s owner, plus of course if you’re supervising anyone or taking any money for it you’ll probably need some kind of insurance. One possible way to get around this is for tree surgeons to volunteer to climb interesting trees to inspect them for defects – thus being covered under their own or their employer’s insurance as it’s clearly work and not play. However, if they take a while getting up there, who’s counting?
I’m sure the people at http://www.goodleaf.co.uk/ would be happy to advise, or if not, why not try http://www.treeclimbing.com which is a US site, or, if you’re in the UK, http://www.recreational-treeclimbing.co.uk/
where do I get info on climbing trees with the right equipment