We don’t know what Professor Pricklethorn and the … uh … Thornites … are dancing to in this photo, but we suggest playing “Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba while you look at it. (Photo provided / pricklethorn.com)
Posted By: The Reporter September 4, 2025
Submitted
The Indiana Arborist Association (IAA), a chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture, announces its 2025 Tree Climbing Competition, which will take place near the Forest Park Inn in Forest Park, 701 Cicero Road, Noblesville, on Sept. 27 and 28.
The annual competition offers the public an opportunity to watch the art of tree climbing performed by International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborists who specialize in the care and pruning of trees from aloft. Participants compete in a variety of tasks in a timed competition within large trees.
Back by popular demand is the Kids Climb. These climbs are tailored to the physical abilities and safety needs of younger climbers, equipped with climbing harnesses, helmets, and close supervision. On Sept. 27 from 9 to 11 a.m. and from 1 to 3 p.m., IAA will offer kids with an interest in tree climbing the opportunity to experience tree climbing like an arborist. Please note that all minor participants need to have a legal guardian with them to sign a liability waiver and that this event is a first come, first served basis.
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Professor Pricklethorn, a well-known youth educator, will be on hand at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and wants to help teachers, parents, and children learn how to make the connection between science and everyday life by learning about the many good things that trees do for all of us every single day.
LaBarr
This free event, sponsored by Noblesville Parks and an educational grant from Duke Energy, will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 27 at Noblesville’s Forest Park.
“Safety is first in everything we do at Duke Energy,” Duke Energy Government and Community Relations Manager Mark LaBarr said. “Pruning trees or vegetation around power lines should only be done by trained professionals. Attempting to do this work without proper training can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Duke Energy can also offer guidance with planting right tree-right place to help keep trees away from power lines for safety and reliability.”
To register as a competition participant or competition volunteer, please visit indiana-arborist.org/climbingcompetition.
About the Indiana Arborist Association
The IAA is a statewide non-profit organization which strives to enhance the quality of life for Indiana residents by encouraging the planting, maintenance and preservation of trees and promoting the advantages of working with qualified professional arborists who use current industry standards. Learn more at indiana-arborist.org or email info@indiana-arborist.org.
