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Join us at the River!!!

Rec the River is an engaging , educational and just pure fun event on the 

New River in Ivanhoe, VA. devoted to tree people, climbers, arborists, and outdoor enthusiasts and their families. Plan to come spend 4 days with us learning unique skills, conversating with peers, floating the river and some relaxation.

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For more find us on Facebook Rec the River Group

contact  us: 

Todd - Texaschainsawmech@gmail.com  Toddfather & Mastermind

Jesse- smilinjesse@hotmail.com  Promotions and Donations Coordinator

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Specialty Gifts provided by  our wonderful event sponsors for each registered participant!!!

Sam Young 

“This trip showed me that we are built for everything we face in life. It's a lot in me that I needed to see. Resilience, Integrity, the character, men and women!"

Evan Clark 

"I tell everybody its a gathering of the family. We all come out to comps and we hang out and reunite but there is always distractions. But at Rec the River we are all together, learning, playing, no stress, just being together and enjoying each others presence and engagement."

Nich Maidment

“For me the main draw was the river, hanging out with the people and around the trees, but relaxing and enjoying the camaradarie.”

Jim Pavlicin

“My favorite part of this weekend was getting interviewed. I am just kidding, but I probably should have put my teeth in for this. ”

What to Expect: 

Rec the River is jam packed with things to do. Float the river, take part in special workshops, reunite and relax with tree family, play fun outdoor games, win prizes from our amazing event sponsors, and so much more..... 

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 Educational Demonstration Opportunities: 

Day/ Time - TBD

What's in Your Tool-Kit? 

Todd Braguglia

Join Todd Braguglia whom will lead a comprehensive discussion about what tools you carry, what you use, what you need, and how to adjust and be flexible or versatile to make other things work in a pinch. He will be sharing what he has in his own tool kit, what he recommends, and tips and tricks he has learned after being in the industry for 30 years. Explore the essentials every tree worker would have in their kit, and discover the gear that enhances your efficiency and safety in the trees. Learn to properly store and maintain your tools to prolong lifespan with good care practices. Build your toolbox tailored for tree care, for climbers and groundies alike. Come listen in, ask questions, share experiences and most of all have fun.

Day/ Time - TBD

SRS Anchors, Redirect, and things to make life easier.
Evan Clark 

Join Evan Clark for an insightful presentation focusing on the fundamental elements of tree climbing: SRS (Single Rope Technique) Anchors, Redirects, and Individual tips and tricks to enhance the efficiency and safety of arborists and tree climbers. Discover the importance of properly setting SRS anchors, mastering various types of redirects for navigating obstacles, and implementing time-saving techniques for smoother climbing experiences. From selecting the right equipment to advanced climbing strategies, this presentation offers a comprehensive guide to optimizing your tree climbing endeavors while prioritizing safety and productivity.

Day/ Time - TBD

JSA - Jobsite Safety Assessment
Sherry Fairow

Step into the realm of comprehensive jobsite safety with Sherry Fairow – and a workshop designed for professionals committed to creating secure work environments. This workshop is essential for supervisors, safety officers, and anyone responsible for ensuring the well-being of workers on the job. You can develop a keen eye for recognizing potential hazards. Learn systematic approaches to assess and mitigate risks, fostering a safer workplace for all.  

Day/ Time - TBD

Ornamental Pruning
Kristin Hammond

Join Kristin Hammond- as she shares her artistry of techniques and principals of sculpting live masterpieces through precision pruning. Understand the importance of timing and delve into seasonal strategies for maximizing the health, vigor and flowering potential of various trees. This interactive workshop combines theoretical insights with hands on pruning exercises. Participants will have the opportunity to apply the principals learned on a variety of trees under her guidance.

Day/ Time - TBD

MRS MAGIC (Moving Rope System) 
Fletcher Harper 

Fletcher Harper – Unlock the secrets of advanced climbing techniques in this Moving Rope System (MRS) workshop with knowledgeable tree guy Fletcher as he explains and shares methods for efficient ascent, descent, positioning, providing versatility in various tree and rope scenarios. Understand the selection and configuration of specialized equipment for MRS. Gain insights into harness setup, rope choice, and hardware configurations that optimize performance and safety in MRS applications. Elevate your rope skills with advanced maneuvers specific to MRS. From re-directs to mid-line attachments, explore techniques that enhance your ability to complex climbing environments with precision.

Day/ Time - TBD

Safe Production Simplified
Kyle Jacobs

Kyle Jacobs – will explain how to effectively employ a small number of techniques and relatively inexpensive tools to make work happen without the downtime that comes with rarely-employed techniques and complicated rigging or the risks associated with production as the sole priority.

Day/ Time - TBD

Advanced Rigging Technique
Logan Stine

Elevate your rigging with Logan Stine - as he hosts a workshop designed for professionals seeking advanced skills in the art and science of rigging. Explore intricate rigging scenarios and discover advanced techniques for complex tasks. From multi point rigging to specialized configurations and the tools and devices designed to help you stay ahead with the latest advancement in rigging equipment. Understand the capabilities and applications of cutting-edge tools and devices for safe and efficient rigging operations.

Day/ Time - TBD

Chainsaw Maintenance, Safety & Proper Cutting Techniques
Ryan Swederski & Meg Bujnowski

Join Ryan Michael Swederski for an essential presentation covering all aspects of chainsaw operation and maintenance, emphasizing safety, efficiency, and best practices. From understanding the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and saw protection to mastering proper cutting techniques, this session offers invaluable insights into maximizing chainsaw performance while minimizing risks. Dive into the differences in chainsaw size and engine displacement (cc), explore the intricacies of bars, chains, and sprockets, and learn about air filter systems for optimal engine health. Gain clarity on fuel options, whether mixing fuel or using pre-mix, and discover the art of sharpening chains for precision cuts. Additionally, we'll dive into bucking and limbing techniques and discuss the complexities of cutting wood under tension, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of chainsaw operation and safety measures.

Day/ Time - TBD

Aerial Rescue-

Safety & First Aid / CPR Cert.
Zach Troup 

(Stacey Brittsan- Assistant) 

Join Zach Troup - for a workshop designed to enhance your knowledge and skills in Aerial Rescue, Safety, and First Aid/CPR. This workshop is ideal for arborists, tree care professionals, and anyone involved in working at heights. Learn Essential techniques for rescuing individuals working at heights, focusing on safety protocols and efficient rescue methods. Gain hands- on experience in basic first aid and CPR techniques. Fees incur with certification. Must register in advance. Be prepared to save a life, anywhere, anytime!

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For CPR certification there is an additional associated charge.   $80.00

Day/ Time - TBD

"Knots- Your most frequently used tool. "
Sam Young-Bey

Embark on a journey with Sam Young-Bey as he dives into the essential knots every climber should know, from securing loads to send up or down the line to creating stable structures and demonstrating the art of knots like the Bowline, Alpine Butterfly, Figure Eight, Follow through Figure Eight, Square, Zeppelin Bend, Scaffold, Anchor Bend, Clove Hitch, Half Hitch, Marlin Hitch, Sheet Bend, Blake’s Hitch, Truckers Hitch, and more!

Explore and discover how hitches enhance efficiency in various situations and learn knots that prioritize safety, ensuring secure connections and preventing incidents

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GROUNDIE
CHALLENGE GAMES

1

Human Claw

A fun human claw game invented by tree people for tree people. 

2

Throwline Bucket Pong

Evan Clark's invention of using throw ball into buckets with 2 teams and 6 buckets spread at each end of the playing field. Hone in on those skills of getting the bag where you want it. 

3

Debris Collection

Timed Cleanup- we will be using plastic balls in multiple sizes to challenge the contestants to compete and see who can get the most balls. 

4

Rope Coiling

Another timed event to challenge you verus a contestant to see how well you coil and care for your ropes! 

5

Sending Things Up Line

We all know that the guy (or gal) in the tree may need additional items they did not carry with them initially. As a groundie you will need to have the skills to attach a variety of items onto the rope to send it up to the climber. 

6

Something 
Else

I forget. Ask Todd

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