written by Ava Van Brunt

The 7/8 Forestry Occupation went on an outing to Foresters Day at the University of MN on April, 19th 2019. Students started their day with a Pancake Breakfast at the Skok Hall with U of M Forestry students and faculty, then had the option to participate in tree ascension with the TAG (Tree Ascension Group).

A note about tree climbing and forestry. In addition to being fun and contributing to physical fitness, elements of tree climbing include opportunities to develop analytical thinking, improve knowledge and appreciation for natural resources, as well as build self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, tree climbing introduces young people to skills and professional development opportunities in urban forestry and arboriculture.

Ascending a tree is no easy task, but the result is rewarding and the experience is overall pleasant! In order to climb I needed the following, a foot and hand ascender, helmet, sturdy rope, and a harness. Once I clipped myself I to my harness, I pulled my rope down through the ascender and thrusted my hips upward. I repeated this until I reached my stopping point, then I relaxed my grip on the rope, allowing myself to descend. Through this experience, I was able to gain knowledge on something I knew little about. As well as broaden my mindset on what it means to study a tree. I would strongly recommend trying tree ascension to future students in the Forestry Occupation!