The 2026 New England Tree Climbing Championship, hosted by the New England Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture (NEC-ISA), brought together the region’s top climbing arborists on June 12–13 at the Masonic Youth Center in Warwick, Rhode Island. The annual competition highlighted the exceptional technical abilities, professionalism, and commitment to safety that define the arboriculture industry.

Over two days of competition, climbers from across New England demonstrated their expertise in five preliminary events designed to mirror real-world arboricultural work situations: Aerial Rescue, Work Climb, Ascent Event, Belayed Speed Climb, and Throwline. Each event tested competitors’ efficiency, problem-solving abilities, equipment handling, and adherence to industry safety standards.

The championship serves as more than a competition—it is an educational experience that promotes the exchange of innovative climbing techniques, advances safe work practices, and fosters camaraderie among arborists throughout the region. Volunteers, judges, technicians, and event coordinators worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure a successful event while providing valuable opportunities for networking and professional development.

Families and community members also had the opportunity to experience arboriculture firsthand through the popular Kids Climb, introducing the next generation to the importance of trees and the skilled professionals who care for them.

Following the preliminary events, the top-scoring male and female climbers advanced to the Masters’ Challenge, where they completed a complex, simulated work scenario requiring precision, efficiency, and advanced climbing skills. 

Congratulations to our 2026 New England ISA Tree Climbing Champions: Jake Slade and Stella Dee. As chapter champions, they will represent New England at the 2026 International Tree Climbing Championship in St. Louis, Missouri, this October.

A highlight of this year’s championship was the presentation of the Bruce Duffy Spirit of the Competition Award, which recognizes a competitor who exemplifies the values that define a selfless competitor. Selected by event officials, the award honors an individual who demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship, a positive attitude, encouragement of fellow climbers, and a commitment to safety throughout the event. While technical skill is celebrated in every competition event, the Spirit of the Competition Award recognizes the character, camaraderie, and professionalism that make the Tree Climbing Championship experience truly special. 

Congratulations to Cory Rebello for embodying the collaborative spirit and passion for arboriculture that continue to strengthen the New England tree care community.

The New England Chapter ISA extends its sincere appreciation to the event sponsors, volunteers, judges, technicians, and supporters whose dedication made this championship possible. Their commitment helps advance the arboriculture profession while reinforcing the critical role of safety, education, and continuous improvement in tree care operations.

The New England Tree Climbing Championship continues to inspire excellence and showcase the extraordinary talent within the region’s arboriculture community. We look forward to building on this momentum and welcoming competitors, volunteers, and spectators back in 2027.

Read more about the competition and view the full results on the Chapter's TCC webpage.

View Photos and Additional Photos on TreeStuff.com.