Course fee: $250

The Game of Logging training program combines Scandinavian logging techniques with the latest systems for working safely around trees. We cannot overstate the value of these courses. We have participants who’ve used chainsaws for decades prior to taking GOL Level I say that the course changed the way they work in the woods. The GOL courses must be taken in sequence. (Even if you have chainsaw experience, you must begin with Level I).

Level 1. Precision Felling Techniques. This workshop introduces 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. 8AM-4:00PM one-day course. Maximum 10 participants.

IN THIS COURSE YOU'LL LEARN / PRACTICE:

Emergency planning
Personal protective equipment
5-point safety check
Reactive forces
Precision plunge cutting
5-point felling plan
Scoring the stump
Precision felling practice

WHAT TO BRING

You can use the instructor's chainsaw in LEVEL 1, so you do not need to bring one. But if you own a saw, bring it. You can at the very least show it to the instructor for feedback, and you will likely be able to use it for your felling practice.
Hardhat with eye and ear protection
Chaps (Though you must bring chaps, the instructors encourage you NOT to buy a pair just to attend the workshop, since they’ll be telling you about the pros and cons of different styles. Try to borrow a pair from a friend or neighbor. You may also borrow a pair from the instructor, but please let us know in advance if you'd like to do that.)
Sturdy boots
Gloves (optional)
Lunch and beverages
Clothes appropriate to a full day in the woods, rain, snow, or shine (If it's really cold, hand- and toe-warmers are great to have.)
Drug- and alcohol-free body
Positive attitude. Remember that you will be in a course with up to 9 other participants, all of whom will take turns with chainsaw practice. You will learn a great deal by watching and listening closely to other participants' chainsaw handling.
There are no bathroom facilities, so be prepared to take care of business in the woods following Leave No Trace practices.

LOCATION: Precise location for the course TBD, but event will take place in the vicinity of Bristol/Lincoln, VT. We will announce the exact location 1-2 weeks prior to the course.

CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY: Please note our refund policy! You may cancel your registration up two weeks prior to the workshop date and receive a full refund, less a $40 administrative fee. Cancellations made less than two weeks prior to the workshop will only be eligible for refund if we have someone on the waitlist who can fill your space, in which case you will receive a full refund, less a $40 administrative fee.

Game of Logging courses are held rain or shine. In the rare event that a workshop is cancelled due to extreme weather conditions, participants will receive a full refund of their registration fee.

Because of the high costs of running the course, Vermont Family Forests will cancel the course if we do not have adequate enrollment to cover costs (We have only done this a few times in 25 years). In that case, all registered participants will receive a full refund, less the non-refundable ticketing fee.

Contact the host of Game of Logging Level 1, September 24, 2026