If you’ve already taken a chainsaw safety course and are comfortable with the basics, this workshop is designed to help you build confidence and take your skills to the next level. Ideal for the part-time chainsaw operator, this hands-on course goes beyond cutting firewood and introduces advanced techniques like directional felling of small standing or downed trees. You’ll learn how to apply different types of notches to guide the outcome of your cuts with greater accuracy and control during this workshop that will take place on Sunday, Nov. 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Led by expert arborists Melissa LeVangie Ingersoll and Bear LeVangie, the workshop blends classroom instruction with field-based learning. We’ll review essential topics including personal protective equipment, the anatomy of a chainsaw, reactive forces, basic maintenance, and useful tools that complement safe operation. In the field, you’ll identify hazards, plan escape routes, analyze log binds, and practice techniques such as bucking, limbing and notching. You’ll also gain experience implementing cubing plans, creating secure felling setups, and applying practical tips for working more efficiently.

Participants will actively cut logs, practice felling notches, and take down small trees under supervision. By the end of the course, you’ll have a deeper understanding of how to operate your chainsaw safely and effectively, with a focus on technique, planning, and control. Prior participation in a chainsaw safety course is required. All equipment will be provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own chainsaw and personal protective gear if you have it. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, including long sleeves, pants and sturdy boots. Don’t forget to bring a bag lunch and plenty of water for the day.

Melissa LeVangie Ingersoll is a passionate educator about trees, tree care and tree climbing among many other extensive topics. She holds many professional certifications, including an ISA Certified Arborist, an ISA Tree Climbing Specialist, and a Tree Risk Assessment Qualification. Outside of being a Co-Founder of the WTCW (Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop) a workshop for women taught by women to climb trees with an emphasis on arboriculture. Additionally, she is the Educational Director and a Business Development Advocate for Shelter Tree/RBI, a premier arborist equipment supplier. She is the Past-President of the Massachusetts Tree Wardens and Foresters Association and of the New England Chapter of ISA.

Bear LeVangie is an ISA TRAQ Certified Arborist, CT licensed arborist, and MA Qualified Tree Warden. She is the co-founder of the Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop and serves as a lead instructor and as the Executive Director. Bear’s career in arboriculture includes utility, research, invasive species inspection, education, production climber, IPM, and training. Bear also served as New England Chapter Past-President, holds pesticide licenses in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York, and is a retired NETCC Champion and ITCC climber.