03/29/2022
USFS sawyer recertification leSson: OHLEC = objective - hazards - lean (bind) - escape route - cut plan. This 22” cedar blowdown up on Deadwood ridge on the WS Trail was a simple but potentially dangerous project. Objective: Safely clear the trail for all users to avoid damage to vegetation and wildlife off the trail, where motos, runners and horses are allowed. Hazard: 4000 pound tree is 2 feet off the ground which can cause serious injury, get it on the ground then cut sections out. Escape route: is back away from the blowdown. Cut plan: First remove limbs and clear for trip hazard. Cut from this side which is uphill in case it rolls. With a top bind, start first cut in right side, then left, then sections using a wedge in top to keep saw from getting stuck. 1st section is offset cut to enable rolling of round out and then continue with boring cuts to keep chain out of dirt/rocks. Take your time and stay aware of body position, wear your PPE, leather boots, long pants and chaps, long sleeve shirt, gloves, hard hat, safety glasses and hearing protection. course is clear to go!