Courtesy photo Utah's best tree climbers will be Layton Commons Park May 18 and 19 for the Utah Community Forest Council/International Society of Arboriculture's 18th annual tree climbing championship.

Children’s author Shel Silverstein made The Giving Tree legend with his book of the same name, giving trees everywhere a bad name as dysfunctional partners in an abusive relationship with humankind.

The Utah Community Forest Council/International Society of Arboriculture-Utah Chapter is out to change all that with its 18th Annual Tree Climbing Championship. This is a two-day event about all things tree climbing, but the overall message is all about forest conservation for local arborists and anyone who thinks green.

With lots of trees to climb, it’s also a lot of fun. The competition is cut into five category climbs—the aerial rescue, secured foot lock, throw line, belayed speed climb and work climb. It’s all about agility and, of course, safety. But each climb also tests a pro’s ability to perform “work-related tree-care tasks,” as the press release says.

“The championship is always a crowd pleaser,” said Mike Marett, past president of the society in press materials. “It brings the best of the best together to compete, share knowledge and experience.”

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Utah Community Forest Council/International Society of Arboriculture-Utah Chapter’s 18th Annual Tree Climbing Championship

When • May 18, 9 p.m., climbers compete in three events; May 19, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., more climbing competitions, children’s events and awards ceremony

Where • Layton Commons Park, 437 N. Wasatch Drive, Layton

Info • Call 801-971-0795 or visit www.UtahUrbanForest.org for more information.