In partnership with the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Ohio Chapter ISA, the SEED Campus will host the 2026 North American Tree Climbing Championship (NATCC) from May 15-17, 2026.
This free, three-day competition will feature climbers from across North America competing in several climbing events, including aerial rescue, work climb, ascent, belayed speed climb and throwline technique. The SEED Campus will be bustling with competition viewing, food trucks and family friendly activities. The community is invited to stop by and experience the action up close.
There Are Many ‘Firsts’ Happening at the 2026 NATCC
This year’s competition marks several important milestones. 2026 celebrates the 25th anniversary of female climbers competing in NATCC. In recognition of this, ISA has updated its chapter nomination process to encourage greater equity and increase the number of females represented in the competition.
This is also the first year the competition will be held in Ohio, making it especially meaningful that the SEED Campus was selected as the host site, an honor shared by all of Davey.
“As proud ISA partners, Davey is thrilled to be hosting the 2026 North American Tree Climbing Championship at our Kent, Ohio, campus,” said Pat Covey, chairman, president and CEO of Davey Tree. “Our new SEED Campus was built to revolutionize training and research in the industry, and we’re looking forward to welcoming ISA members and the public to experience it firsthand.”
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Friday, May 15
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11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Qualifying Events
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12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Arbor Fair
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Saturday, May 16
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8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Qualifying Events
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9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Arbor Fair
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9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Kids’ Activities
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Sunday, May 17
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9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Masters’ Challenge
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9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Arbor Fair
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9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Kids’ Activities
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5 p.m. – 6 p.m. Awards Ceremony
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Competition Details
First-, second- and third-place awards will be given to both men and women in each event. Competitors’ total scores across all five events are then combined, with the top male and female climbers advancing to the Masters’ Challenge.
The Masters’ Challenge is one event scored on technique and skill. The competitors with the highest scores in this round are named the male and female NATCC Champions. The winners of the 2026 NATCC will advance to compete in the 50th Annual International Tree Climbing Championship in St. Louis, Missouri.
Throughout the weekend, an Arbor Fair will take place alongside the action, which will include booths from tree care companies, industry sponsors and gear suppliers and will be available for visitors to explore. Free restrooms, parking and shuttle service will also be provided for the public. Parking is available at Davey’s corporate headquarters at 1500 N. Mantua St., Kent, Ohio.
Experience NATCC at the SEED Campus
The 2026 NATCC promises to be an unforgettable weekend at the SEED Campus, showcasing the campus as a hub for innovation, education and industry excellence. Whether you’re an industry professional or a first-time visitor, this is a unique opportunity to experience the skill, passion and community behind professional tree climbing.
Visit the press release here.
