Register

November 2, 2023
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time

Mountain Island Educational State Forest 
534 Killian Road, Stanley, NC 28164 

Did you know North Carolina has an average of 4,400 wildfires per year? In this workshop we will look at practical uses for chainsaw skills through the lens of wildfire mitigation around the home.  

This course is designed to provide a safe and welcoming learning environment for women who are new to chainsaw use. While most participants have little or no experience with a chainsaw, this course is also an effective refresher for more experienced individuals who may want to brush up on good safety habits with a saw. This is a gateway course and will provide you with a foundational introduction to support you in pursuing further chainsaw training. 

Protective equipment (eye goggles, earplugs, leather gloves, chaps, and metal toe caps) and chainsaws will be available to borrow, but you are encouraged to bring your own if you have them. You will need to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirt, and closed toed shoes. Please do not feel like you must purchase equipment for this workshop!  Many people find the information in this workshop helpful in deciding what chainsaw or protective equipment to purchase. You will have the opportunity to start a chainsaw and cut slices, or “cookies” from logs if you feel comfortable, but it is not a requirement. 

This course is intended for women-identifying individuals, though all are welcome to attend. We strive to foster a safe and supportive learning environment and ask that all participants respect that.  

This course is hosted and sponsored by the Piedmont Prescribed Burn Association, NCSU Extension Forestry, the Women Owning Woodlands program, and NC Forest Service. This program is funded in part by the Renewable Resources Extension Act (RREA). 

Agenda:  

• 8:30 am – Check in  
• 9:00 am – Indoor training 
• 12:00 pm – Lunch (provided) 
• 1:00 pm – Field training 
• 4:00 pm – Wrap up 

Accessibility: We will be handling and operating chainsaws during this workshop. The first portion of the course will be in the classroom, and the afternoon will be spent in the woods, rain or shine.