Photo by Mick Mc Bride
Columbia Cascades Saw Training and Certification events are hosted by the Pacific Crest Trail Association and U.S. Forest Service, where qualified participants can earn saw certifications and re-certifications. These saw trainings are possible thanks to safety and operation agreements with the U.S. Forest Service. These events are open to PCTA volunteers and members only.
Copies of current First Aid and CPR certifications must be submitted in order to register for any of the saw classes. The application process is very competitive. Submitting your application does not guarantee admission into the training. Learn more about PCTA’s Saw Training and Certification program.
2024 Event
This is a three day saw certification event for both Chainsaw and Crosscut, for those that would like to become certified or recertified.
This event will take place across two weekends: Participants must attend either the April 13th OR May 3rd classroom session in order to attend the field evaluation the weekend of May 4-5th.
The classroom session on 4/13 will take place at the Vancouver Community Library. The Classroom session on 5/3 and the field evaluations on 5/4 and 5/5 will take place at the Wind River work center in Carson, WA.
This event has concluded, and registration is closed.
Please forward questions pertaining to saw training and certification to [email protected].
Do I need a current First Aid and CPR card for saw certification?
Yes. PCTA staff and volunteers cannot operate chain or crosscut saws unless they hold a recognized and valid sawyer certification, First Aid, and CPR card. PCTA must have copies of current First Aid and CPR qualifications in order to issue saw certification. After applying for saw trainings, applicants will need to submit copies of their certification cards via PCTAConnect (Navigate to “My Volunteering” and select “My Certifications” to upload) or email them to [email protected]. First Aid Certifications must include an in-person component (cannot be online-only) per OSHA requirements.