Basic and Advanced Chainsaw Safety Training March 2026

With forests covering much of South Carolina’s state parks, proper tree maintenance is an important part of keeping parks safe and accessible for visitors. Recently, park staff from across the state gathered at Santee State Park for specialized chainsaw training designed to strengthen safety and technical skills.

Two courses were offered during the training: a Basic Chainsaw Class and an Advanced Chainsaw Class, each designed to build skills and reinforce safe operating practices for park staff who use chainsaws in their work.

The Basic Chainsaw Class, led by Wayne Sanders, covered essential topics including personal protective equipment, proper chainsaw handling, chain sharpening, cutting techniques, bucking, and limbing.

The Advanced Chainsaw Class, led by Mike Watkins, focused on tree felling techniques and advanced cutting methods.

Both courses provided hands-on instruction and practical experience to help staff safely maintain trails, campsites, and other areas throughout South Carolina State Parks.

Basic Chainsaw Class
Lead Instructor: Wayne Sanders
Field Instructors: Billy Burk, Everett Clark, Stephen Hamilton, Craig Norris

Advanced Chainsaw Class
Lead Instructor: Mike Watkins
Field Instructors: Brandon Johnson, Kyle Bullock, Rowdy Harris, Milan Burton, Jay Benjamin

Training opportunities like this help ensure South Carolina State Parks staff remain well prepared to care for the natural resources visitors enjoy every day.