Become a Certified Sawyer

All volunteers using a chain saw or crosscut saw on the Appalachian Trail must successfully complete a sawyer certification workshop. Follow these steps to get certified.

1. Find a workshop that meets your needs.

A.T. certified sawyer patchATC strives to provide workshops that are convenient for our volunteers. Check the regional trail-skills training calendars for workshops near you:

If you are affiliated with an A.T. maintaining club and can't find an appropriate workshop, contact your trails supervisor to discuss your specific training needs. ATC staff schedule training only as requested by our clubs. You may also call your local ATC office to see what other certification opportunities might exist.

2. Make sure space is available.

Registration deadlines are generally two weeks before the course date. A.T. volunteers are given first priority for workshop space. Other club volunteers are given second priority. Non-A.T. maintainers are included as space allows and may be placed on a waiting list until after the registration deadline has passed. A $65 cancellation fee applies for all courses. (See the application form below for details.)

3. Complete and return the workshop application.

Volunteer Sawyer Certification Course Application(PDF)

This is very important! Returning your application form reserves your place on the roster, ensures we have your complete contact information, and helps the instructor know more about his or her audience. Note: There is a $65 cancellation fee required to ensure our instructor's time is well-spent. See the application form for more details.

4. Review preliminary course packet.

You should receive a packet of course materials from ATC at least one week before the course. This packet will contain all the necessary details about your course, more information on the certification process, a guidebook, and administrative forms. Selected materials from the packet are available here:

USDA Forest Service Chain Saw and Crosscut Saw Training Course:

Student's Guidebook, 2006 Edition (PDF)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Order Form* (PDF)

Volunteer Sawyer First Aid/CPR Reimbursement Form* (PDF)

Sawyer Training Workshop Evaluation Form (PDF)

* for A.T. maintainers only

5. Attend the course and get certified!

Following successful completion of the workshop, you will receive a letter that explains your certification and contains your certification card, a certificate, and some recognition items.