Whether cleaning up storm damage, clearing invasive species, cutting firewood, or general property upkeep and maintenance, the chainsaw remains a foundational and efficient tool for residents and landowners. However, it can also be one of the most dangerous if used without training and caution.
The Woodland Wednesdays partners, along with the Maple Producers of Northeast Ohio, are offering a Chainsaw Safety Awareness that Works (CSAW) Level 1 course through the Ohio Forestry Association at Adam Hall (11455 Washington Street, Auburn Twp, OH 44023). This 8-hour class covers topics including personal protective equipment (PPE), safety features of the chainsaw head, five-point safety check, maintenance of the power head and guide bar, components of the saw tooth, angles and their functions, and the reactive forces of the chain and guide bar. During the field portion each participant will learn and demonstrate felling a tree using the five-step pre-felling plan, open face felling, and the hinge and bore method. Rain or shine – this program includes indoor and outdoor sessions.
Registration Details (please read carefully): Class size is limited due to the intensity of instruction and payment is required to secure your registration. The $250 cost for this course has been greatly reduced thanks to Lake Erie Forestry Grant funding. The fee is $20 per participant and lunch will be provided.
In an effort to accommodate more people’s schedules, we are offering the same class twice: Friday, April 24, 2026 and Saturday, April 25, 2026 (both from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm). If you are able to attend the Friday class, we ask that you consider signing up for it so those who work during the week will have a greater chance of getting into Saturday’s class.
Limited spacing (20 per class) so please consider one participant per household. Register at https://fs12.formsite.com/GeaugaSWCD/2026Chainsaw/index
Questions? Contact 440-834-1122 or gprunty@geauga.oh.gov.
