West Coast Redwood climb

[frans]

I would like to share a recent get together a group of friends and myself did. This took place at the Redwoods River Resort (www.redwoodriverresort.com/) and across the hwy. at Confusion Hill. These places are just off hwy. 101 just north of Leggitt, CA.
My friend Jack owns the place and we have been climbing there for many years.
A few links for additional information about us and what we do:
http://www.wesjones.com/climbing1.htm#source
www.atreestory.com
www.newtribe.com
http://www.gypoclimber.com/showthread.php?t=12444

I drove my (new to me) Land Rover series 11a 109. This was a shake down cruise after extensive modifications.
I bought the Land Rover from Ike at www.pangolin4x4. This rover has a heart transplant which is a 283 SBC engine, a forward control transmission, salsbury rear axle and a stage 1 front axle.
'Lumpy' made the trip fine except that after about 10 miles into the trip I asked my if he smelled something burning. Ha! I had wired up the battery isolator incorrectly (to run the fridge off of a deep cycle battery). So it was overcharging. No big deal really, I just disconnected a wire and we were on our way.

This get together consisted of a couple of climbers from the U.K., and lots of folks from the East Coast. Many of them having never seen a redwood, much less climbed one.

The purpose of the climb was to test out a prototype rope ascending device which our friend had just invented. This is a motorized ascender which climbs up a rope.
Sure makes is easy to make those long ascents!
How we climb is to 'set' a rope over several branches far into the canopy, tie one end off to the base of the tree, and climb up the other end of the rope. The way we get a rope up to the 125' range (height of the lowest branches, is by using a 'big shot'. sorta a sling shot on steroids. Details in one of the pictures.
This was an exciting and rewarding trip. We even got to bring a complete novice into the tree, and down safely. Her picture is the one of her standing on the Segway.
It is really a blast to introduce people to these natural wonders.
I feel so lucky to live in a place (ca.) that has these natural wonders.
Anyhow here are some pictures of the event, and pictures of Lumpy the rover. Also one picture of our mascot, Jerry the ken doll.
Enjoy:
ps: (I also threw in one sorta blurry picture of me climbing in a Giant Sequoia. Its the one with the branches over 6 feet thick!)

[frans]

The tree climbing we do, is a very specialized activity involving highly evolved gear and techniques.
The methods we use are completely oriented toward preservation. We use no climbing spikes, for example, on these trees. Rather, we use non-invasive rope climbing techniques. Even the ropes hanging over limbs are protected by 'Cambium Savers' which eliminate the rope rubbing on the limbs.
Our group consists of professional licensed certified arborists, High and low angle rope rescue instructors, Forest service forester, and professional licensed timber operators, forest canopy researchers, published authors, and tree climbing instructors.
We have a combined experience of, gosh, well, many decades of time.
I say this because of the inherently contentious nature of climbing these trees which we consider to be a national heritage. As a treasure of our nation, we feel it is paramount to observe closely evey possible precaution to leave these trees in exactly the condition that we found them.
We also feel that it is important to educated the public on these natural wonders to keep awareness high of them, and work to insure that they are here for generations to come.

a few more pictures:

[kellymoe]

What is the safety back up should the motorized ascender fail? Is it a series of rollers creating friction or two wheels camming on the rope? Looks interesting.

[frans]

I want to add that my purchase of a series land rover has always been a dream of mine.
I grew up on the t.v. shows which included land rovers, dreamed of cruising along in an old land rover, and got a real kick out of the movie 'the gods must be crazy'.
Part of owning a land rover for me is being out in and enjoying the back county of our state.
I also don't mind working on vehicles, which is lucky seeing as how this land rover is older than I am. :)
We live in such a unique place. What other place can boast that within a few short hours you can drive from a temperate rain forest with the tallest trees in the world, to the oldest trees in the world (still under investigation), to the largest trees in the world?
We have deserts, rain forests, places where the snow has never melted, to places that have no rain at all!
We are truly lucky to live in such a wonderful place.
I look forward to driving my series land rover to many of these places, and hopefully to meeting many of you expo members.
The next place I intend on going is to the All British Field Meet in Portland Or.
Hope to see you there!

-frans

[Co-opski]

Keen TR! I have only seen redwoods in Europe and a few arboretums here and there in the N. America. Some day I plan on making that trip down to see them full grown in Cali.

[frans]

What is the safety back up should the motorized ascender fail? Is it a series of rollers creating friction or two wheels camming on the rope? Looks interesting.

The Ropetek Wraptor!
The rope feeds into a 'v' pulley which captivates it. At the top of the device is a CMI Ropewalker. Which is a cam type rope grab.
So in the event of a failure, the ropewalker will grab the rope.
Good question as we always have two separate systems in personal fall protection
here is a close up of the ropetek wraptor. It is a prototype so all the kinks have not been worked out. The narrow black and yellow rope is called 'Beeline' and is rated to just over 8000lbs. at the end of the b-line is a double auto locking snap not visible in the pix. So you tie into the ring at the base of the device and then snap the b-line also to your saddle. The ropewalker 'walks' above the device:

[frans]

I would also like to say that I am open to any questions or comments regarding the possible negative effects of climbing/touching these trees. I will do my level best to answer anyones thoughts on this topic.
I think that questions and comments can be very valuable. I also feel that I can always learn something new.

Some concerns I have had include:
On some of these group climbs, I have seen climbers breaking small twigs off of the tree while thrashing/climbing in the canopy. Is it better to just not climb the tree? Can breaking pencil sized twigs have a negative effect? I personally think so, when you think about the cumulative effect is has. Just take a look at the Ponderosa Pines in Yosemite Village. They have had people tramping around the bases and compacting the soil. Some have even failed because of this.

Anyhow, open to discussion if anyone is interested.

-frans

[frans]

Keen TR! I have only seen redwoods in Europe and a few arboretums here and there in the N. America. Some day I plan on making that trip down to see them full grown in Cali.

Oh you gotta make the trip! New Zealand has redwoods also.

[HiddenDuke]

What would happen to these trees if everyone climbed them?

[kjp1969]

I would also like to say that I am open to any questions or comments regarding the possible negative effects of climbing/touching these trees. I will do my level best to answer anyones thoughts on this topic.
I think that questions and comments can be very valuable. I also feel that I can always learn something new.

Some concerns I have had include:
On some of these group climbs, I have seen climbers breaking small twigs off of the tree while thrashing/climbing in the canopy. Is it better to just not climb the tree? Can breaking pencil sized twigs have a negative effect? I personally think so, when you think about the cumulative effect is has. Just take a look at the Ponderosa Pines in Yosemite Village. They have had people tramping around the bases and compacting the soil. Some have even failed because of this.

Anyhow, open to discussion if anyone is interested.

-frans

http://www.mdvaden.com/redwood_climbing.shtml

"But however delicately a climber moves, they must grab branches, wrap ropes over limbs, stand on bark and slide clothing against buds and lichens. It's not possible to move through a redwood without changing it."

[frans]

Yea I have met Mario.

Here is an excerpt from that article:


Since most legitimate redwood climbing operations by botanists have been closed-door events, research climbing may be more secretive than the Ninja climbing.

Researchers may mount straps, cables, solar panels, miniature probes - you name it. For all this climbing, the person is not floating on air the whole time, although it sometimes seems that way when they are suspended on ropes or limb walking.

These redwoods can be climbed to study lichens, birds, salamanders - with specialists climbing at intervals, repetitively.

For all this activity, the wear and tear from research climbing seems to be almost nil. I've used binoculars, zoom lenses and spotting scopes, looking at many redwoods climbed by the botanists. And best I can see, the result is close to a no-trace-left-behind appearance.

I'm not supplying an answer of should or should not, or right or wrong on this page. I could easily support several levels of activity. It's not my forest. It's our forest.

[frans]

I really like the last sentence where he says "its not my forest, its our forest"

Thats why I am open to having discussions on this topic of conservation.

After all, if its driving off road, or climbing a tree, or hiking in the backcountry, there are what, a billion people on our planet now? This issue of conservation is no longer the province of 'greenies' but a concern of everyone.

My prophecy is that maybe not in our generation, but soon, the most responsible thing to do is to close off our national forests and many of the state parks to the public.
How else maintain them? People are inherently destructive just by being around them.

Each of us who has traveled through our parks and forests and beaches can all name glaring examples; from toilet paper, to ruts in the roads, to litter.

It can be an exhausting subject but one that I think needs to be kept foremost in our minds. If for nothing else just because of the growing population that accesses these areas.

[kellymoe]

I dont thing anyone will have to worry about tree climbing becoming a popular sport it will always be a fringe group that does it and in very small numbers.

My personal opinion about possible illegality is the same that I take when kayaking rivers that are supposedly off limits. I am an expert at what I do, I do no damage and leave no trace of my being there. In most cases I receive permission from the land owner to access the river. Some activities to me are just worth the risk. If the tree is not being harmed in any way then I don't see the harm in doing it.

I take the responsibility for being on a river that may be off limits due to high water and fully accept any punishment that may come my way. That is a risk I am willing to take to pursue my sport. I am sure tree climbers look at it quite the same way.

I remember reading of John Muir climbing to the top of a tall pine in a wind storm and his telling of how exhilarating the experience was. I am sure he would be saddened to hear that others cant experience the same thing he did.
This is a case of the govt. trying to protect it's people from themselves and I understand that but why cant I if the moment moves me, climb a cliff or tree or float down a river to experience something wild and primal? Society is far too safe. Let people break legs, necks, hell let em die. Just get out there and experience life on the other side of the railing for crying out loud.

[Scenic WonderRunner]

I would also like to say that I am open to any questions or comments regarding the possible negative effects of climbing/touching these trees. I will do my level best to answer anyones thoughts on this topic.
I think that questions and comments can be very valuable. I also feel that I can always learn something new.

Some concerns I have had include:
On some of these group climbs, I have seen climbers breaking small twigs off of the tree while thrashing/climbing in the canopy. Is it better to just not climb the tree? Can breaking pencil sized twigs have a negative effect? I personally think so, when you think about the cumulative effect is has. Just take a look at the Ponderosa Pines in Yosemite Village. They have had people tramping around the bases and compacting the soil. Some have even failed because of this.

Anyhow, open to discussion if anyone is interested.

-frans


Somehow....I feel....that I would not want to touch this thread with a 379.1 foot Redwood Tree!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sequoia


Just Sayin'.......





I Love Trees!

Now just where is my Tree Hugger Smiley when I need him>?!!!




.

[Obi-Wan-Kenobi]

What would happen to these trees if everyone climbed them?

That question can spawn several other questions. If majestic redwoods are those trees, then:

What else is up there that may matter? If climbing is done in the parks when permits are not available to anyone, why did the person climb the tree? Isn't there a reason climbing is not allowed part of the year? What are the differences between privately owned trees, and park trees.

And can tree climbing become addictiing :ylsmoke:

[HiddenDuke]

That question can spawn several other questions.

Chiefly among them is if a red wood falls in a forest and nobody is around to climb it, did it make a sound?

[teotwaki]

I would also like to say that I am open to any questions or comments regarding the possible negative effects of climbing/touching these trees. I will do my level best to answer anyones thoughts on this topic.
I think that questions and comments can be very valuable. I also feel that I can always learn something new.

Some concerns I have had include:
On some of these group climbs, I have seen climbers breaking small twigs off of the tree while thrashing/climbing in the canopy. Is it better to just not climb the tree? Can breaking pencil sized twigs have a negative effect? I personally think so, when you think about the cumulative effect is has. Just take a look at the Ponderosa Pines in Yosemite Village. They have had people tramping around the bases and compacting the soil. Some have even failed because of this.

Anyhow, open to discussion if anyone is interested.

-frans

I like your report for what it is and would prefer that a discussion of tree climbing ethics be set up in a seperate thread in the "Fireside Chat" area. Keeping the two discussions seperated is the best way for folks to share and learn about the different but intertwined (to pun slightly) topics. The Fireside Area has some express guidelines that are better for disagreements to be laid out and understood, facilitating the learning process for all. Trip reports are something that we can all agree that we all enjoy without reservation. :wings: Especially great pictures!

An example is a trip report about hiking and then a discussion about hiking on land that has strict wilderness designations and requires permits regardless of a person's good intentions.

I ask this of Frans because I find tree climbers to be just as "crazy" (in a good way) as I am with climbing mountains. Many of the methods and thrills are related and the pictures are eye opening. Where I part ways in ethics is that I don't climb without the appropriate permits.

Looking forward to seeing a link to another thread posted up and also to see more information on the development of the gas-powered drill (IIRC) adapted to rope ascending.

[BajaTaco]

I like your report for what it is and would prefer that a discussion of tree climbing ethics be set up in a seperate thread in the "Fireside Chat" area. Keeping the two discussions seperated is the best way for folks to share and learn about the different but intertwined (to pun slightly) topics. The Fireside Area has some express guidelines that are better for disagreements to be laid out and understood, facilitating the learning process for all. Trip reports are something that we can all agree that we all enjoy without reservation. :wings: Especially great pictures!

An example is a trip report about hiking and then a discussion about hiking on land that has strict wilderness designations and requires permits regardless of a person's good intentions.

...

I agree. The trip report is best for sharing the report and enjoying it. A separate thread for discussion of the practices, trends, etc. is a good idea. Another suggestion besides Fireside Chat would be the "climbing" sub-section of the Adeventure Activities section.

[frans]

Thanks for the input.
I will look for the 'fireside chat' forum. It does seem to be a more appropriate forum for these types of discussions but I was not aware of it until now

frans

[BajaTaco]

Thanks for the input.
I will look for the 'fireside chat' forum. It does seem to be a more appropriate forum for these types of discussions but I was not aware of it until now

frans

Thanks Frans. Sorry to make you run around the forum, but you'll get to know your way around.

Welcome aboard :)

[J-man]

What would happen to these trees if everyone climbed them?
more people would have an appreciation for them - dont get down on the guy okay - no need for questions to scenarios that wont happen.

[frans]

video is done. Standard Y-tube quality:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eriaxqNmB0k&feature=player_embedded

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[teotwaki]

more people would have an appreciation for them - dont get down on the guy okay - no need for questions to scenarios that wont happen. i cant stand people who say Edited to remove innapropriate language.

And shrill reprimands can be done without too. He asked a reasonable question. We are awaiting a regular discussion thread to be opened rather than pollute a trip report with back-and-forth.

[pygmyowl]

I read "Wild Trees" by Preston the other month - fascinating stuff - couldn't put it down. I'm planning to get down to N California this autumn and hit some brew pubs on the way. I would love to see the Atlas Grove, but understand why it is hard to find. Maybe someday I can get some instruction and climb in those monarchs. Wonder what the best season is?

Up here in Idaho our Whitebark are taking a big hit from both Blister Rust (introduced) and the native Pine Beatle. I really like Whitebark but it is pretty sad, and the Grizzly make good use of that nut also, so it isn't going to make things any easier for him.

Scott MacButch

[teotwaki]

discussion thread about ethics and the law over here:

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=28496