Advanced Training: Climbing MRS (Moving Ropes Systems)
Dates: Monday–Tuesday, April 20 & 21, 2026
Weather Date: April 22, 2026 (if needed)
Instructor: Phil Prohaska
Time: 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM (1-hour lunch — please bring a bag lunch)
Location: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2300 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614
- If using your own gear, please fill out the gear inspection form and bring it with you the day of. The form can be found at the bottom of this page.
- Please park in the east side parking lot. Enter at Fullerton and Cannon Dr. Take a ticket when you enter. Parking validations will be provided.
Course Overview
This is a 2-day, hands-on module designed for the arborist who wants to learn the climbing techniques used in the arborist industry. The Moving Rope System (MRS) will be used in this course. We will present and demonstrate how to inspect all components of a climbing system, tying the appropriate knots used in a MRS system, tree risk assessment, ascending techniques, limb walking techniques, and descending techniques.
Equipment Requirements:
1. Climbing style head protection that meets the ANSI Z89.1 standard
2. Eye protection that meets the ANSI Z87.1 standard
3. Work boots suitable for climbing trees (covering the ankle)
4. Work positioning harness suitable for tree climbing
5. Work positioning lanyard suitable for tree climbing
6. Climbing rope 120 feet minimum in length that meets the ANSI Z133.1-2017 standard, with a locking rope snap or double locking carabiner
7. Split tail or eye & eye friction hitch cord with a locking rope snap or double locking carabiner
8. The IAA will have climbing gear available to use if you do not have your own.
Outcomes:
Upon completion of the Climbing Level 1 module, each participant will gain the knowledge of, or be able to perform the following tasks, with emphasis on Safety:
- A basic Tree Risk Assessment
- Throwline and shot pouch use
- Choosing the proper branch union for ascending
- Installing a ring & ring Friction Saver with throwline, and then installing a climbing line
- Tying a friction hitch with a split tail and/or eye & eye hitch cord
- Secured ascending on the climbing rope
- Limb walking