LEAP Update workshops announced

Since it began, nearly 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.”

In 2023, LEAP Update workshops will be held at three Idaho locations: Lewiston on March 7, St. Maries on March 8, and Sandpoint on March 9. This year’s topics include strategies for noxious and invasive weeds in forests; advances in steep slope logging; forest health issues in 2022; what is SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative); communicating among generations; carbon markets 101; forest road maintenance; and pruning forest trees.

Program enrollment is limited for each session. Those wishing to participate should pre-register as soon as possible, but no later than March 1. 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 for the St. Maries and Lewiston programs by going to www.uidaho.edu/leapupdate and 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) 885-6356. For registration questions on the St. Maries session, contact the University of Idaho Extension office in Benewah County at (208) 245-2422. For registration questions on the Sandpoint session, contact the University of Idaho Extension office in Bonner County at (208) 263-8511.

LEAP Update also helps loggers to 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.