Fifty feet above the ground, nestled among the branches of oak trees, the SEED Campus canopy walk opens a world that’s usually reserved for climbers.
It’s a place for training: Instructors can work at eye- and ear-level with climbers, offering real-time guidance without shouting from the ground or relying on headsets. The elevated platform gives trainers a direct view of each movement, making feedback more precise as climbers refine their techniques.
It’s a place for research: Though no research projects are in place just yet, the canopy walk opens doors for the Davey Institute to study things like the insect populations and physiology of mature trees – things you can’t do on small trees from the ground.
It’s a place to gain perspective: For employees who don’t climb, the canopy walk offers a rare chance to step into the elevated experience that defines so much of Davey’s work. The walk is not open to the public, but non-climbing employees will be able to access it, observing the tree canopy up close while gaining insight into the work from a climber’s point of view.
The SEED Campus canopy walk is situated near the main training building, 50 feet in the air, with about 690 feet of walkways, several observation decks, and three viewing towers. Construction recently concluded.
View more photos of the Canopy Walk in various stages of construction in the gallery below.
