Climbers' Corner • Tree Academy
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday
Precision Felling Techniques and Working the Plan
Summary
Whether felling a whole tree or a tree trunk, getting the job done safely in a controlled manner is imperative. For those of us working to remove trees in the urban environment, there are numerous hazards and obstacles we must avoid in order to be successful. Unfortunately, there are too many accidents (unplanned events) that occur when felling trees, causing injuries and damage to property. Using a felling plan and working through that plan will greatly reduce the number of unplanned events (accidents).
In this presentation we will look at the history of cutting techniques used to fell trees. We will examine the functions of the face notch, back cut, and—most importantly—the hinge. We will explore how different types of cuts can be used in different situations to improve control and safety. The use of the 5-step felling plan will be introduced as a means of reducing accidents and improving results. Understanding different types of wood fiber and the function of the hinge are critical to the decision making process. We will also discuss the proper use of pull lines in a felling operation. This presentation will create a good foundation of knowledge for tree cutters in today’s urban setting.
Presenters
Rip Tompkins is an ISA
Certified Arborist, Massachusetts Certified Arborist (MCA), and vice president
of ArborMaster Training, Inc., Little Compton, Rhode Island. He also is an
alternate member of the ANSI-Z133 Standards Committee, Past Chairman of the
ITCC Committee, and the 1996 International Tree Climbing Championship World Champion.
He currently serves as a member of the ITCC Rules Committee and special advisor
on the ETCC (European Tree Climbing Championships) Operations Committee.
Climbers' Corner • Tree Academy
Monday • Tuesday • Wednesday