Chainsaw training for volunteers and Pine Busters' efforts in our Drakensberg

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PapaDragon

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London, New York, Paris, Camperdown.
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For a number of years now, a group of volunteers have been doing alien invasive pine tree eradication in the Drakensberg.

The main issue with the pinus patula invasion in the 'Berg, apart from being an alien invasive species in a proclaimed wilderness area, is the change of the grassland to pine forest, which has a major negative impact on the water catchment.

We have evolved from a couple of guys/gals with machetes and bowsaws, to a fairly well organised group of volunteers, using battery chainsaws, radios, rope access equipment etc.

We meet approximately 4 times a year for a long weekend, and have made very good progress, especially in the Monk's Cowl area, but in other areas as well.
Recently been given the go ahead from KZN Wildlife to use battery operated chainsaws, and I would like to see current and potential chainsaw users being given some sort of basic training in chainsaw technique and safety.

Bearing in mind that we are all volunteers, give up our time, pay our own fuel costs, etc.. it would be great if someone could point me in the direction to get training like this either pro bono, or at a very reduced rate..

If it makes a difference we are currently using Stihl products, because they suit our purpose best in terms of efficiency/weight (in other words lighter to carry the chainsaw up the mountain  ;D )

Most of us are based in KZN, PMB and DBN areas..

Thanks

https://web.facebook.com/pinebusters
 
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