The Dangers of Climbing Trees with Spikes: Why Ropes Are Better

Spike climbing wounds trees, creating entry points for Southern pine beetles and other pests. Dr. Kim Coder notes: "A tree never forgets... the damage is always present under the bark." Telecom standards allow spikes only when no safe alternative exists, but inexperienced crews often default to them. Before hiring a crew, confirm they use ropes. Very few trees cannot be climbed safely with ropes.