Q: Can Spartans pitch hammocks on campus trees?

A: While trees provide a great way to relax (I should know!), please spread the word that tying a hammock or slackline to campus trees is not permitted. Every tree is part of the Campus Arboretum, and they are protected, maintained and monitored. They create the living laboratory that is our campus — some are rare varieties, others are part of current research. And even though they may leave no visible marks, straps can damage the delicate layer of living tissue under a tree’s bark, inhibiting the tree’s ability to get critical nutrients. As an alternative, you can find hammock poles installed around campus, including areas behind Shaw Hall and in the Brody neighborhood, that are great places to rest, read or enjoy the weather. Climbing trees is also prohibited, unless you’re an arboreal critter like me, that is!