“LEAP Updates”: One-day Workshops for Loggers offered

Over 2,000 Idaho loggers have taken the University of Idaho Extension Program on forest ecology, silviculture, and water quality, titled Logger Education to Advance Professionalism or “LEAP." Leap Update is an annual opportunity for LEAP graduates to build on that professional development in forestry. 

In 2024, LEAP Updates will be held at three Idaho locations: Lewiston on March 5, Post Falls on March 6, and Bonners Ferry on March 7. This year’s topics include: Slash and smoke compliance, SFI and why it matters, workforce development, FPA, wood borers as primary tree killers, logger’s internet activity, safety hazards with out-sloped roads, and variable density silviculture. 

Program enrollment is limited for each session. Those wishing to participate should pre-register as soon as possible, but no later than Feb. 27, 2024. A $45 registration fee includes resource materials and refreshments. Lunch will be provided by the Associated Logging Contractors of Idaho.

Online registration for the programs is available by going to https://bit.ly/extformarketplace, then clicking on the LEAP Update location you wish to attend. For registration questions on the Lewiston Session, contact the UI Extension forestry office on the Moscow campus at 208 885-9338. For registration questions on the Post Falls session, contact the University of Idaho Extension office in Kootenai County at 208 292-2525. For registration questions on the Bonners Ferry session, contact the University of Idaho Extension office in Boundary County at 208 267-3235. 

Leap Update also helps loggers fulfill Idaho Pro-Logger program's 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.