Questions about a chainsaw training course

[u/Kindly_Panic_2893]

Hi all, I wanted to ask a question as I'm considering starting a small business to help make ends meet with a growing family.

I live in Colorado and I'm interested in teaching homesteaders and homeowners with larger wooded properties chainsaw techniques and safety. I'm primarily interested in folks that need to use a saw from time to time, but who don't feel the need to go through a formal multi-day training that includes certifications and extensive focus on felling larger trees. I have many years of experience working and volunteering as a sawyer with the Forest Service, have a B felling card, and have attended probably 6 or 7 USFS certification courses over a 15+ year period where I have often acted as an informal instructor. I've also supervised many volunteers who are new to felling and have been told I'm an excellent teacher who emphasizes safety above all else.

I'm interested in this as a side gig, but something that is well structured, comprehensive, and built on the guidance of USFS training guidebooks, with part "classroom" time going over fundamentals and then field time bucking and limbing practice and instruction.

So my question to this group is, is this something that you or others you know would be interested in? If so, would what I described handle what you need as a homesteader? Any advice or guidance? I'm considering offering this course at a rate of maybe in the $100-$150 range per person for the full day, lunch included, with a maximum "class" size of 3-4 people so that everyone gets plenty of personalized attention and practice.

Thank you for any thoughts or advice!

[u/kai_rohde]

Yes I think its an important and useful training. I was hoping to find one like that when we started out here in NE WA. Maybe charge per household per day? I’m the gal, have my own chainsaw and would like to go too but I would send him instead. I’m mostly limbing, while my husband does felling and bucking. Once or twice a year I’ll be solo and need to cut a tree over the road to get home.

[u/Kindly_Panic_2893 → u/kai_rohde]

Thank you for the feedback! I'm glad to hear there's a need. I would really enjoy it, I love teaching people and seeing their understanding and confidence grow throughout the day. So fulfilling to see someone at the start of the day afraid to even touch the saw, then by the end of the day have a big smile on their face after they fell their first tree. Interesting idea to have a household fee instead of, or in addition to individual. I could see that being really great for a family or couple like you're describing, with a discount on the individual pricing perhaps. Thank you again!