New England Ropes - Community News

Mark Chisholm

Title: Sponsored Arborist

Mark J. Chisholm is a third generation arborist who works along side his father Steve, mother Laura and brother Stephen, for the family business the Aspen Tree Expert Co., Inc. Mark has been climbing trees since around the age of twelve and admits that it is still his passion today.

Speaking on such topics as advanced climbing and rigging techniques, crane removals, E.H.A.P, aerial rescue, cabling and bracing, competitive climbing, proper pruning and worker motivation, tree care companies and organizations alike enjoy the refreshing approach Mark takes to education. He is a repeat demonstrator at such tradeshows as TCI Expo and ISA Expo as well as lecturing at Rutgers University, Cornell University and Hofstra University. One of his most satisfying duties is to perform on the job training for professionals around the globe. Mark is also involved with special projects including scouting with the USDA for the Asian long-horned beetle throughout the North East and measuring the tallest trees in his area for the CAA. Another avenue taken by Mark is that of a published author, with articles appearing in both "Tree Care Industry" and "Arborist News."
Mark credits a great deal of his advancements in climbing and personal safety to his participating in the New Jersey State Tree Climbing Championship and the International Tree Climbing Championship. During his participation he has won the title of New Jersey Tree Climbing Champion for the past twelve years and World Tree Climbing Champion in 1997 and again in 2001. He is considered to be one of the most consistent competitors in the world, finishing in the top ten for the past thirteen straight years, with eleven of those being top five finishes. He currently holds the world record in the 40-foot secured footlock with 10.8 seconds and has won the belayed speed climb event eight out of the past nine years. He has also been the only climber to advance in every Masters Challenge events hosted to date.

Mark has also developed a relationship with some leading manufacturers of arborist and climbing equipment to aid in new product development as well as revamping existing gear. His creativity also leads him to invent new techniques for conquering everyday tasks, to lessen the strain of the practicing professional climber.

Mark's credentials include:

* New Jersey Certified Tree Expert #348
* ISA Certified Arborist
* CAA 1st Class Rated Climber
* AA of NJ Approved Arborist
* Qualified Line Clearance Arborist
* First Aid and CPR Certified
* Trustee of the NJISA
* Team Leader for the OEM Rescue Team in Jackson, NJ