platforms. And trees move in the wind. “It’s ok to anchor to one tree statically. We use cables to allow trees to move. They must be able to move or they’re going to ‘worry’ that treehouse until something breaks.” Douglas fir and western red cedar are two of his favorite woods. “Western red cedar makes a whale-like song as the bolt goes in, which is good. You don’t want any air in there.” When the economy took a nosedive in 2008, he focused on his treehouse bed-and-breakfast/spa idea. “Permitting was a problem and we had a stop work order. Begging forgiveness rather than asking for permission is not the way to do it. By 2011, when they came back, the building inspectors wanted a set back from the river. I expect them to give me my permits soon— it’s only been 12 years.” In an ironic twist, when he was doing a treehouse in Omaha, Nebraska, the city not only gave him a permit, but asked if they could give him a parade. When Animal Planet approached him in 2013, the business had been doing a slow simmer. “It’s been nonstop since then,” Nelson said. “If you’re ever approached by a reality show, go for it.” His daughter Emily left her job with an outdoor equipment firm to work with Nelson. His two other adult children have since joined the business as well. The show averages about 1.3 million viewers per episode. “It’s been so much fun. Emily thinks a lot like I do but she runs the team. It’s a family business and that can be tough. There’s a lot of emotion, but it can also be a lot of fun.” His clients have become friends. “People interested in the outdoors are good people. They’re dreamers who do things and they’re obviously successful.” (continued on page 40) The Landscape Contractor March 2018
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