The Provincial Forest section provides staff and training space at district offices in Wellington, Beach Grove and Southampton. Courses run from March 30 to April 22.

The “chainsaw sharpening“ courses are an evening devoted to developing skills such as chain sharpening, bar maintenance, roller and sprocket servicing, clutch drum, shoes, and segment maintenance, and off-season storage.

The “cutting firewood safely” course runs for one evening of classroom work and one Saturday morning in the forest. It introduces chainsaw users to safety features such as protective clothing, cold and warm starting techniques, safe felling, saw safety trouble shooting and cutting to enhance wildlife habitat.

While saws are available for demonstration, participants are encouraged to bring their own saws for repair and maintenance. Participants will also be required to supply the required parts for their saws.

“Last year’s courses were an outstanding success but we did not have the resources to handle the number of people who wanted to register,” said Dan McAskill, Provincial Forest Program manager. “By offering opportunities for people to learn more about the operation and safe use of chainsaws, the department hopes to improve forest safety standards across the Island.”

Registration fees are being waived for these courses but seating is limited, so pre-registration is required. More information on the courses can be obtained by contacting the forestry district offices at Southampton (961-7296), Charlottetown (368-4800) and Wellington (854-7260).