Sawyer Training & Advancement

Upcoming Saw Training and Events

  • 2026 COTA Spring Chainsaw Class: COTA is hosting a USFS Chainsaw Class on May 2-3 in Bend. Class is currently FULL. Send us an Email if you would like to attend a future class.

  • 2026 COTA Spring Crosscut Class: COTA is hosting a USFS Crosscut Class on May 16-17 in Sisters. Send us an Email if you would like to attend.

COTA has crews heading out weekly all over the state - so email us and get involved!

Saw Recertifications

We have 2 dates setup for Chainsaw Recerts this spring. April 4th and April 11th. Please email us to get on the list. Regarding Crosscut recerts - Contact Dave and he will help you out.

COTA Saw Program Goal
Elevate and train regional sawyers to the highest levels of proficiency.

Seeking out High Complexity
Advanced training often occurs outside Central Oregon. Forests like the Willamette and Umpqua provide the challenging conditions essential for national standards. Steep slopes, wet weather, large trees, etc. To support statewide training, our evaluators need experience in these environments.

Collaborate and Expand
Whenever possible - We partner with groups like Cascade Volunteers, Salamanders, Scorpions, Trans Cascadia, OTTA, OTA, TKO and Camas Trail Crew on complex projects. To gain experience, sign up on Better Impact for trail work coordination across Oregon. COTA does not currently utilize Better impact, so the saw program works mostly through the Cascade Volunteers.