Just starting out

[skinny13]

Hello everyone,

First, I am glad to have stumbled across this website, while searching for info. I have been on for several hours and believe I could just sit on this site for days learning some valuable info.
I am a young guy 22. Assistant golf course superintendent. Love my job, but looking to make some more cash in something I have really fallen in love with...cutting trees. The tree work I do at my job is pretty simple, lots of prunning on low limbs hanging over fairways, and dead trees. Those two tasks I am comfortable with, Ive taken some pretty large maples and cottonwoods. We also have a genie lift that I can max out at about 50'. Other than that I am pretty "green." Ill be the first to admit that I don't know it all and Ive got a lot to learn so that's why I am asking the best.
Ive been doing some weekend work for family and friends. I figured I cant use the companies equipment anymore so I've purchased 2 saws. Stihl 290 Farm Boss, and an Echo CS-510. Still need a pole saw. I really want to learn how to climb as buying a lift/truck is out of my price range. I know all equipment is expensive though.


Basically I want to know is:
-Learn how to climb (books, websites, schools, companies?)
-Gear (climbing gear, ropes, saws, tools)
-Estimated cost
-Proper steps to become certified (ISA?)

Thanks for your help

 

[jefflovstrom]

Better get "The tree climber's companion".
Jeff

 

[tree md]

Best bet is to work for a good sized tree service where you can see different techniques and learn from a few different climbers. There is no substitute for first hand experience. Most who are self taught are at a disadvantage. If you learn proper technique and industry standards from a pro (or two or three) you will be ahead of the game. If try to teach yourself it will take you longer to learn the basics and the advanced. You will always be handicapped by that.

Just my .02.

 

[Nemus Talea]

Pick up some part time groundie work. Fast way to learn. You'll drag lots of brush but you will learn so much about rigging.
+ 1 on purchasing the climbers companion.