Several GFTBRA members have been working towards obtaining chainsaw sawyer certifications or recertifications this year. This helps ensure that our Trail Steward crew & volunteer groups of riders all have the requisite knowledge to safely and effectively clear trails.

In April of this year, 11 people went through a CPR / 1st Aid class as a prerequisite. Soon afterwards, 12 successfully completed the sawyer classroom portion. Over Father’s Day weekend, 9 were able to fully complete the field day portion of the course and were certified / recertified as such.

GFTBRA would like to say a big thankyou to Mark Himmel of the Charlie Russell Back Country Horsemen for teaching the sawyer classes. Mark has selflessly dedicated numerous hours to helping our members learn how to safely operate our saws with proper cutting techniques on the trail. This partnership between different organizations working together is part of the reason for the Friends of the Little Belts collaborative group. Several different groups coming together bringing their own strengths and expertise to work towards a common goal.