Basic Chainsaw Use: BC-1
The goal of this course is to properly educate students on chainsaws and their use in the field. By the end of the course, students should be able to perform basic chainsaw operations (bucking, limbing, basic felling), troubleshoot basic mechanical chainsaw issues, and provide proper care and upkeep for equipment. We will cover general chainsaw operation hazards and procedures, as well as those that are specific to the work performed by students in the field (storm work, hazard trees, etc.)
February 24-25th
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Athens, GA
CEU Credit Applied for
Agenda
Day 1:
Classroom -NUF Headquarters at 1002 Winterville Rd.
PPE Review,
Chainsaw review
Tool Use and Maintenance,
Cut Theory
Felling Theory
Hazard Trees and Situations.
In the field
Maintenance
Sharpening
Saw Operation/ Safety.
Day 2: Williams Farm - Athens Land trust at 235 Northside Dr. Athens, GA
In the field - in Groups
Review of Day 1
Bucking,
Limbing
Tree Felling and processing.
*Breaks and lunch breaks are included each day.
Requirements:
Students are responsible for bringing their own equipment and PPE for the course.
Students must be able to demonstrate basic skills: Proper PPE use, Proper and safe tool use; basic felling, bucking and limbing for full completion of this course and to receive a Certificate of Training and Patch.
Physical ability to hold and work with an appropriately sized chainsaw. Able to perform a full day of work in the field.
Gear List:
PPE
Helmet
Eye protection ( Z87 rated)
Hearing protection
Chaps (The GAA has a limited number of protective legwear for use. If you do not have chaps or protective legwear, please reach out to discuss options.).
Gloves
Boots
Tools:
Chainsaw & bar (16” minimum) (The GAA will have a limited number of saws available to use. If you do not have your own saw, please reach out to discuss options).
Gas and Oil for personal use
Ax and felling wedges (2-4)
Scrench or clutch cover wrench
Round sharpening file that matches your specific chain
Flat File
Extra Chain loop
Plumb Bob (optional)
Lumber Crayon (optional)
Inclement Weather Gear (we will cut in the rain, without lightening)
Lunch and snacks for the day(s)
Pen and paper for any notes you’d like to take in the classroom portion.
About the Instructor
Nat Walker – Sawyer, Educator, and Consultant
With 17 years of experience running saws, Nat Walker is a seasoned Contract Faller,
Climber, and Consultant, as well as a Contract Educator for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. A former Wildland Firefighter Sawyer, Nat has spent much of his professional career in the field, honing his craft and working with chainsaws across various challenging environments.
Recognizing a significant gap in accessible, high-quality training for sawyers, Nat is committed to changing the landscape of chainsaw safety and education. Drawing from years of hands-on experience and participation in field-specific training courses, Nat is dedicated to creating a comprehensive education system that empowers individuals to enhance their skills and prioritize safety.
Through his work, Nat strives to make expert chainsaw training accessible to anyone eager to improve their craft, helping to build a safer and more skilled community of sawyers.
Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is mandatory for participation in this course. Failure to comply with PPE requirements—including but not limited to chaps or protective legwear, eye protection, and a helmet—will result in immediate dismissal from the course without refund.
Working with chainsaws is inherently hazardous. By attending this class, participants acknowledge the risks involved and agree that the Georgia Arborist Association and its affiliates are not liable for any accidents, injuries, or damages that may occur during or as a result of this training.
Please note that this event will take place rain or shine and is approximately 75% outdoors. Refunds will not be provided in the event of inclement weather. Participants should plan accordingly and come prepared for varying weather conditions.
Your safety, preparedness, and compliance with these guidelines are essential to ensure a productive and secure learning environment.