This one-and-a-half day course designed for beginners at Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson is for participants who have little or no experience with a chainsaw, though it can also be an effective refresher for more experienced individuals who have developed some bad habits with a saw.  

The focus of this course is overwhelmingly on safety: safe posture, safe practices, safe clothing, and safe habits. 

The first half day session (Saturday, April 12th 8 a.m. to 1:30) will be under our pavilion as instructors provide some basic information about chainsaws, maintenance, safety clothing, introduce participants to good practices, and provide relevant background material. The second day is intended to be a full day of practice and application (Sunday, April 13th 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

The goal is that each student will leave the course being keenly aware of safe practice and equipment.  It is also a goal that each student will have the opportunity to operate a chainsaw in a controlled and supervised setting. Students will practice starting a saw, making straight up-and-down cuts (bucking), bore cuts and cutting small trees.  Students’ interests and aptitude always dictate the extent of the course. Some Level I students will practice directional tree felling techniques, if they feel comfortable doing so.

Midcoast Conservancy does not provide overnight accommodations as a part of this workshop, but there are rustic cabins and campsites at HVNC available for rent. Students should come prepared with all the food and water they will need.

We are pleased to partner with the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) on our Chainsaw Safety Courses. MOFGA members may also take advantage of discounted pricing.