Ep 19. Tar Rigger

In Dirty Jobs season 4 episode 19, titled "Tar Rigger," the show's host, Mike Rowe, traveled to the Pacific Northwest to get his hands dirty in the world of logging. Specifically, he learned about the job of a tar rigger, a position in the logging industry that involves working atop towering trees to apply tar in order to prevent water and insects from damaging them.

Throughout the episode, Rowe got to spend time with a variety of different tar riggers, observing the intricate process involved in applying tar in such a high-risk environment. He helped prepare the tar mixture, strapped on his own harness, and climbed nearly 100 feet up into a Douglas fir tree to get a first-hand look at the work involved.

As with many episodes of Dirty Jobs, "Tar Rigger" isn't just about the job itself - it's also about the people who do it. Rowe got to know the tar riggers he was working with, learning about their backgrounds and discovering what drew them to this dangerous work. He also got a sense of the camaraderie that exists among the workers, who must trust one another with their lives while working hundreds of feet above the ground.

One of the most interesting things about the job of a tar rigger, as explored in this episode, is the degree of skill and precision involved. The tar mixture must be applied in just the right way in order to be effective at protecting the tree, and doing so while balancing on a narrow wooden board high up in the air is no small feat. Throughout the episode, viewers get to see the inherent risks involved in this type of work, as well as the satisfaction that comes from doing it well.

Of course, as with any episode of Dirty Jobs, there are plenty of lighter moments interspersed throughout the show. Viewers will get a kick out of watching Rowe clumsily attempt to climb up to his tar rigging platform for the first time, or trying to maneuver his way around among the ropes and pulleys needed to complete the job. As always, Rowe approaches the task at hand with humor and humility, never afraid to get his hands dirty or admit when he's out of his depth.

Ultimately, "Tar Rigger" is a fascinating look at a job that many people likely haven't even heard of, let alone seen in action. The episode provides an inside look at a world that is often hidden away high up in the trees, and showcases the unique skills and personalities required to succeed in this line of work. Whether you're a fan of Dirty Jobs or just interested in learning more about the diverse types of work that exist in our world, "Tar Rigger" is definitely worth a watch.