Will chain lock platforms and ladders damage trees?

[ba_50]

Trying to preserve Walnut, Oak, Hickory and cherry trees.

[Grasshopper]

They sure will if you leave 'em up too long. I have made the mistake of forgetting the location on chain-on stands for several seasons. When I found them again the chain had grown into the tree... Very bad, and I was embarassed.

Pull them down at the end of each season, or by the next spring at the latest, and you can hunt that same tree for as long as you want.

[cornfedkiller]

Like grasshopper mentioned, if they are left there long enough to grow into the tree, yes, but if you are wondering about the occasional use on a few trees here and there, I would say no. I'm no forestry major or tree expert by any means, but I dont think the possible damage to the outside little bit of the bark in a spot as small as a chain would do anything to a healthy tree. I think for trees to be damaged, the damage has to be done a little deeper..

[Mukwa]

SAFETY! Leaving stands too long in trees is a hazard. I know of one guy that climbed into a chain on stand that was left out for a few years and the stand collapsed sending him to the ground and Hospital. Later exam showed a link had broken with the tree growth. Other stands were inspected and showed similar.
I leave my stands up all season where I can and some year around but always adjust the chains and replace any straps that showed wear or weathering.