Professional arborists to compete in New Jersey Tree Climbing Championship in Morris County
PARSIPPANY-TROY HILLS, N.J. (Morris County) — Professional arborists from across New Jersey and beyond will showcase their climbing, rescue and tree care skills during the annual New Jersey Tree Climbing Competition on June 12 and 13 at Central Park of Morris County.
Hosted by the New Jersey Arborists Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture (NJAISA), the competition will feature 30 professional arborists competing in a series of events designed to test the skills required in the tree care industry.
The event begins Friday, June 12, with equipment inspections followed by the Ascent and Belayed Speed Climb competitions. Participants will be timed and scored by volunteer judges using standards established by the International Society of Arboriculture’s International Tree Climbing Committee.
Competition continues Saturday, June 13, with the Aerial Rescue, Work Climb and Throwline events, which evaluate climbers’ ability to respond to emergency situations aloft, perform routine tree maintenance tasks and accurately place ropes in trees.
Judges and administrators will score competitors across all five preliminary events before determining the top performers.
Organizers said spectators are welcome to attend the family-friendly event, particularly on Saturday when multiple competitions will take place simultaneously throughout the park.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to speak with a Licensed Tree Expert and an ISA Certified Arborist about tree care and arboriculture.
The top male and female competitors from New Jersey will advance to the Master’s Challenge, the competition’s final event. Winners will earn the title of 2026 New Jersey Tree Climbing Champion and the opportunity to represent the state at the International Tree Climbing Championship scheduled for October in St. Louis.
The annual competition highlights the technical skills, safety practices and professionalism required in the arboriculture industry while providing educational opportunities for the public.
Additional information about the competition and the New Jersey Arborists Chapter is available at www.njaisa.com.
