The Game of Logging (GOL), widely acknowledged as the premier chainsaw and timber harvesting training program in the country, will be offered as a new noncredit workshop beginning this month at Berkshire Community College.

GOL training combines demonstration with hands-on participation to teach safety, productivity, conservation, and cutting techniques. Designed for both professional and casual chainsaw users, course participants regularly include owners of forested land, professional loggers, city-parks and utility workers, firemen, foresters, and others interested in learning to use or improve their skills with a chainsaw. GOL training consists of four levels that must be taken in sequence.

Taught by Bill Girard, the course at BCC (WKS 9200) will be held from 8 to 5 on consecutive Saturdays starting with Level 1 on Nov. 22 and ending with Level 4 on Dec. 13.

Girard has 34 years of experience working in the woods. He runs an integrated operation, logging as well as performing residential tree work and land clearing. He also operates a portable sawmill and has provided GOL training since 2001.

Registration costs $150 per level or $600 for all four levels. Participants must bring a hard hat, eye and ear protection, boots, and beverages and a lunch. If they have them, participants should also bring their own chaps and chainsaw. If not, a chainsaw and chaps will be provided.

For more information, or to register, call BCC's Office of LifeLong Learning at 413-236-2122.

--11/12/08--