The Pacific Crest Trail Association and U.S. Forest Service invite you to the Southern California Saw Training and Certification Weekend. Participants can earn crosscut and chain saw certifications or re-certifications. This saw training and operation is possible thanks to safety and operation agreements with the U.S. Forest Service. This event is open to PCTA volunteers and members only.
Copies of current first aid, CPR, and blood-borne pathogen certifications must be presented to attend any of the saw classes. The application process is very competitive. Submitting your application does not guarantee admission to the training. Learn more about the Saw Training and Certification program.
When is it?
To be determined. Please check back at a later time.
What certifications are typically offered?
Saw Operator Re-certification
Chain saw and crosscut saw re-certifications will be separate classes, each taking about six hours. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own equipment.
Initial Saw Certification
Initial crosscut and chain saw certification classes will be two-day classes. These classes are intended for initial saw certification of individuals with moderate saw experience applying for Trainee (A) level certification or experienced Trainee (A) level sawyers now ready to apply for Saw Operator (B) level certification. Volunteers will be grouped to allow Saw Operator (B Level) candidates to demonstrate saw crew leadership and saw skills. Saw Operator (B Level) candidates are encouraged to bring their own equipment.
Do I need a current First Aid and CPR card?
A current First Aid, CPR, and blood-borne pathogen certification is required for a saw certification to be valid. PCTA staff and volunteers cannot operate chain or crosscut saws unless they hold a recognized and valid sawyer certification, first aid, and CPR card. After completing your online application, applicants will need to submit copies of their certification cards to the PCTA Sacramento office by email or mail ([email protected]; 1331 Garden Highway, Sacramento, CA 95833). If a current First Aid and CPR card is not on file at the PCTA Sacramento office prior to the training, your registration will be terminated and you will be unable to attend.
Who can attend?
Saw training and certification events are open to PCTA volunteers and members only. Registration is highly competitive – submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance.
Attending PCTA’s Saw Training and Certification Course does not guarantee certification. Certification cards will only be issued to those who exhibit proficiency, safety and leadership using the saw.
Students are required to wear gloves, long pants, long sleeves, and leather, over the ankle, cut-resistant boots.
Please forward questions pertaining to the Saw Training and Certification to [email protected].