The spike-less climbing method uses tree platforms developed mostly for climbing tall conifers. Typically hunters use the platforms to hide high in trees waiting for game. The platforms are used by researchers and tree care experts as well. The platforms are manufactured by forestry and hunting equipment companies in the United States. The mechanics of the platforms are somewhat similar to that of the African method with loops, where the feet work one loop and the arms work another as the climber “inch worms” up the trunk. But with the platforms there are adjustable metal-reinforced rubber straps rather than ropes. As well, there are sturdy platforms for the climbers feet and arms; a large base platform for the feet that allows the climber to stand safely once he is at the top and a smaller platform for the arms.
To begin a climb, the two platforms are attached around the base of the palm; the larger foot platform below and the smaller arm platform above. The climber mounts the bottom platform and the downward pull of his weight synchs the belt to the palm trunk. He then loosens the arm platform and slides it as high as he can. pressing his arms onto the top platform, he uses his feet to loosen the lower platform and slide it up as close to the upper platform as possible. Then the moves are repeated creating an inch worm or shimmy action as the climber ascends.
The climber wears an arborist’s harness and clips himself to the upper platform; a safety technique borrowed from mountaineering. Upon reaching the base of the crown, a hook attached to a safety line is slipped over one of the younger leaf bases to provide extra security. Biologists use somewhat similar lines for hauling themselves into the canopies of tropical forests.
[hr]
Once secured in the crown, the trimmer has enough support to thoroughly clean out and carefully trim the crown. Coconut Kuleana trimmers use tree saws instead of machetes. Professional tree saws make clean precise cuts and are much safer to use than swinging machetes. In a full clean-out trim, every bit of debris, old fronds, developing coconut racks and paper are removed. Seed pods are left untouched as they are essential to the health of the palm.
Ground Crew and Trimmers have a strict code of communication that keeps the area below the trimmer clear as he drops heavy fronds during the trimming. After several fronds are dropped, the call to pause trimming is given and the ground crew quickly drags debris away. As the trimming continues, the ground crew works to load the truck with the fronds that have been pulled clear. Again, this well-thought out method gets the job done quickly and keeps everyone safe. If there are coconut racks to lower, the heavy racks are tied securely and lowered slowly guided by ground crew.
Once the trimming is complete, the climber rests in his harness supported by the crown and removes the platforms. He attaches the platforms to his harness and rappels out of the tree descending in a matter of seconds. A special knot in the rope allows him to whip it from the ground to release it from the crown. This method of quick descent saves hours on the job and allows the crew to work efficiently.