Level 1 of Game of Logging Chainsaw Training, September 26, 2024 – Lincoln, VT

The Game of Logging training program combines Scandinavian logging techniques with the latest systems for working safely around trees. We cannot overstate the value of these courses. We have participants who’ve used chainsaws for decades prior to taking GOL Level I say that the course changed the way they work in the woods. The GOL courses must be taken in sequence. (Even if you have chainsaw experience, you must begin with Level I).

Level 1. Precision Felling Techniques. This workshop introduces open-face felling and the development of techniques to safely use it. Topics covered include personal protective equipment, chainsaw safety features, chainsaw reactive forces, bore cutting, pre-planning the fell, and understanding hinge wood strength. 8AM-4:00PM one-day course. Maximum 10 participants.

IN THIS COURSE YOU’LL LEARN / PRACTICE:

• Emergency planning
• Personal protective equipment
• 5-point safety check
• Reactive forces
• Precision plunge cutting
• 5-point felling plan
• Scoring the stump
• Precision felling practice

WHAT TO BRING

• You can use the instructor’s chainsaw in LEVEL 1, so you do not need to bring one. But if you own a saw, bring it. You can at the very least show it to the instructor for feedback, and you will likely be able to use it for your felling practice.
• Hardhat with eye and ear protection
• Chaps (Though you must bring chaps, the instructors encourage you NOT to buy a pair just to attend the workshop, since they’ll be telling you about the pros and cons of different styles. Try to borrow a pair from a friend or neighbor. You may also borrow a pair from the instructor, but please let us know in advance if you’d like to do that.)
• Sturdy boots
• Gloves (optional)
• Lunch and beverages
• Clothes appropriate to a full day in the woods, rain, snow, or shine (If it’s really cold, hand- and toe-warmers are great to have.)
• Drug- and alcohol-free body
• Positive attitude. Remember that you will be in a course with up to 9 other participants, all of whom will take turns with chainsaw practice. You will learn a great deal by watching and listening closely to other participants’ chainsaw handling.
• There are no bathroom facilities, so be prepared to take care of business in the woods following Leave No Trace practices.

LOCATION: TBD, but either in Lincoln or Bristol, VT. We will announce the exact location at least 2 weeks prior to the course.

CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY: Please note our refund policy! You may cancel your registration up one week prior to the workshop date and receive a full refund, less a $30 administrative fee. You also have the option to shift your registration fee to our next offering of the course (we offer Game of Logging each spring and fall) for no administrative fee.

If you cancel less than one week prior to the workshop, your fee is not eligible for refund, unless we have someone on the waiting list who is available to fill your space, in which case you will receive a full refund, less a $30 administrative fee, or you can shift your registration fee to our next offering of the course.

Game of Logging courses are held rain or shine. In the rare event that a workshop is cancelled due to extreme weather conditions, participants will receive a full refund on their registration fee.