BCHI and USFS requires the use of certified hard hat, safety glasses/goggles, ear protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps. Hard toed boots are suggested.

We will not include pictures of sawyers on any web page without the minimum required equipment.

USDA & FS Chain Saw and Crosscut Training Course

Instruction Videos

• The Crosscut Sawyer Video – 40 minute video – This is a companion to the Forest Service “Chain Saw and Crosscut Saw Training Course.”
• Handtools For Trail Work – Part 1 – USDA Forest Service 1999 – 26 minute video on – Crosscuts – Loppers – Digging Tools
• Handtools For Trail Work – Part 2 – USDA Forest Service 1999 – 25 minute video on Axes – Sledge Hammers – Handles and Sharpening
• The Sawyers – A 70 year old sawing training film, Shows good sawing techniques for the crosscut saw.
• The Axman – Vintage ax use training video. US Forest Service. Maybe late 1940’s
• How To Start A STIHL Chain Saw
• STIHL – Chain Saw Safety, Operation & Maintenance – 1 Hour
• Chain Saws – Part 1 – Spring Poles
• Chain Saws – Part 2 – Bucking: Top Bind
• Chain Saws – Part 3 – Bucking: Bottom Bind
• Chain Saws – Part 4 – Bucking: Blow Down
• Chain Saws – Part 5 – Bucking: Angle Cut
• Danger : Chain Saw Washington State Dept. of Labor and Industries 2008 – Video V1295

The A, B, C’s of  “Bucker” Certification Explained

…of those who earn sawyer certification, most are buckers (and proud of it!)

A – Sawyer An apprentice sawyer may saw only in the least complex situations, or, for training purposes, saw at the next higher level, in either case only under the immediate supervision of a B or C Sawyer qualified to supervise the work.  

B – Sawyer ̶ Bucking Only An intermediate Sawyer who may independently buck and limb any size material in moderately complex situations within the restrictions noted on the sawyer’s National Sawyer Certification Card, and who may saw at the next higher level, but only under the immediate supervision of a sawyer qualified to supervise the work

C – Sawyer ̶ Instructor/Evaluator An advanced sawyer who may independently buck and limb any size material in highly complex  Situations, based on the Regional Saw Program Manager’s or Saw Program Coordinator’s written recommendation, which  must be supported by demonstrated advanced saw knowledge and skills and, in most cases can, as a B Sawyer (FSM 2358.1, ex. 02); may conduct classroom and field training within their skill level for A and B Sawyers; and who may conduct field proficiency evaluations within their skill level for A Sawyers and B Sawyers ̶ Bucking Only.

Trail Volunteer Sawyer Certification

An Explanation of the Certification Program

Every member of a volunteer trail crew who operates a chainsaw or crosscut on public land needs to complete USFS sawyer training. This is the same training that USFS seasonal employees are required to complete and is designed to keep the crews safe. In years past this training was only available directly from the USFS, but due to the 2016 Saw Policy revision FSM 2358.05 it is now possible for organizations like Back Country Horsemen members with proper training and endorsements to train Trail Volunteers.

The 2016 National Saw Policy applies to all activities on National Forest System lands (NFS) that involve the use of saws, unless a separate interagency agreement covers that activity. The Forest Service Saw Program provides direction on qualifications, training, evaluation, and certification requirements for Forest Service employees, volunteers, Training Consultants, and cooperators using saws on NFS lands.

Back Country Horsemen of Idaho has a number of members who have completed the required training, have the experience and required endorsements, and have been conducting classes working in partnership with the USFS in regions 1 and 4.