GERRY – Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua and Cattaraugus will host two upcoming woodlot management and chainsaw safety events.

On August 20-21, Cornell Cooperative Extension will offer Chainsaw Safety Certification courses conducted by Bill Lindloff’s ProCuts. The certification courses are critical educational opportunities to complete “Game of Logging” requirements needed for woodlot management and safe chainsaw handling. These are hands-on, comprehensive trainings that enable participants to gain real-life experience and knowledge. They are also required trainings for those looking to conduct trail maintenance in any state forest or state park. All classes are open to the public and are appropriate for wood lot owners, people who use chainsaws through their work and volunteers who assist in clean-up projects.

On Wednesday, August 20, Game of Logging Level One will be held at Harris Hill State Forest, Harris Hill Road parking lot, between 28th Creek Road and West Hill Road, Gerry, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Level 1 focuses on introducing the participant to 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.

On Thursday, Aug. 21, Game of Logging Level Two will be held at the same location from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. . Level 2 focuses on maximizing chainsaw performance through basic maintenance, carburetor setting, and filing techniques. Limbing and bucking techniques are introduced, spring pole cutting is covered and more felling is practiced.

Participants are required to bring chainsaw chaps, eye protection, ear protection, hardhats, and boots. Additionally, participants are encouraged to bring a chainsaw with at least a 14″ bar, drinking water, lunches and snacks, chainsaw maintenance tools, extra fuel, and bar oil. These events are all-day, outdoor activities that will be held in all weather conditions.

Registration for each level is $150/person. For more information, contact CCE-Chautauqua’s Ag Team Leader, Katelyn Walley-Stoll, by calling 716-664-9502, ext. 202 or emailing kaw249@cornell.edu. Register online by visiting chautauqua.cce.cornell.edu and selecting the events tab. Participation is limited to 10 people per level and registration is first come, first serve and is not completed until the fee has been received.