'LEAP Updates:' 1-day workshops for loggers

More than 1,700 Idaho loggers have taken the University of Idaho Extension program on forest ecology, silviculture, and water quality, titled Logger Education to Advance Professionalism (LEAP). The LEAP Update is an annual opportunity for LEAP graduates to build on that professional development in forestry.

The 2019 LEAP Updates will be held in Bonners Ferry on March 21. This year’s topics include: steps to take when a chemical spill occurs, an update on pine bark beetle outbreaks, ponderosa pine ecology and silviculture, Caterpillar equipment and technology updates, the science of tree rings, spring needle casts, economics of the Good Neighbor Authority, future forest products markets, effects of worker fatigue, and using emergency location devices.

Program enrollment for each session is limited. Those wishing to participate should pre-register as soon as possible, but no later than March 12. A $45 registration fee ($48 for online registration with a credit card) includes resource materials and refreshments. Lunch will be provided by the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho.

For registration questions on the Bonners Ferry session, contact the University of Idaho Extension office in Boundary County at 208-267-3235. Registration forms can also be downloaded at www.uidaho.edu/extension/forestry/calendar.

LEAP Update also helps loggers to fulfill Idaho Pro-Logger program annual continuing education and best management practice training requirements. For more information on the Idaho Pro-Logger program or logging safety/first aid sessions, contact the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho at 208-667-6473.

University of Idaho, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, and Idaho counties cooperating. The University of Idaho is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and Educational Institution.