A.M. Logging Prioritizes Wildfire Prevention with New DCNR Training
Workforce development is crucial for FRA member companies, ensuring they are equipped to tackle both current and future challenges. With the forest industry experiencing rapid technological advancements, evolving regulations, and sustainability goals, having a skilled and adaptable workforce is essential for maintaining competitiveness. FRA is dedicated to supporting these efforts by highlighting workforce opportunities that drive innovation and resilience across the wood supply chain.
This commitment is exemplified by Wes Miller from A.M. Logging LLC, who shared how their collaboration with DCNR provided practical and engaging wildfire safety training. This training ensures their team is well-prepared to optimize operations, enhance safety, and achieve long-term success.
Jeff Jenkins | FRA Appalachian Region Consultant
A.M. Logging Prioritizes Wildfire Prevention with New DCNR Training
The responsibility for wildfire management doesn’t solely rest on public lands, in Pennsylvania (PA). The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has been entrusted, through legislative action, with the critical task of combating wildfires not only on DCNR-managed lands but also on private and other public lands across the state. This responsibility extends beyond extinguishing fires—it includes conducting post-fire investigations and assessing the costs of fighting fires on those found responsible. Considering these duties and in response to revisions in the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) standards, the DCNR has developed a new training course specifically for loggers.
On July 19th, the entire team at A.M. Logging, LLC took part in the inaugural session of this important training course, “Wildfire Prevention, Preparedness, and Response.” Jeff Glunt, A.M. Logging’s Human Resources and Safety Director, emphasized the importance of the training for the entire crew: “We felt our entire team needed to attend this training. Hearing these crucial points directly from the DCNR team can really help drive them home,” said Glunt
The training, held at the Millheim shop, began around noon, setting the stage for an afternoon of intensive learning. Ben Livelsberger and Shawn Dorin from the DCNR led the session and delivered their first presentation of the four-hour Pennsylvania Sustainable Forest Initiative Safety Implementation Committee (PA SFI/SIC)-approved course. The training covered essential topics, including:
– Basic Fire Terms
– Weather Conditions and Impacts
– Fire Fighting Tactics
– Communications
– Fire Fighter Interface
– Knowing the Surroundings
Ben and Shawn’s presentation was informative and thought-provoking, raising important questions that every logging team should consider. For instance, while everyone knows to dial 911 in an emergency, who on the team is designated to make that call? Is there reliable phone service at the logging site, or do team members need to drive to find a signal? Can first responders access the site quickly, or are there obstacles like weight-restricted bridges to navigate? Are there any structures at risk? Is anyone injured? What exactly is burning—the forest, the equipment, or perhaps a chip pile?
These are crucial considerations that can mean the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster. Additionally, Ben and Shawn stressed the importance of machinery maintenance. Is combustible material being regularly cleaned from machines? Are operators conducting daily inspections? Are leaks being fixed immediately? And most importantly, does everyone know where the fire extinguisher is located?
Following the DCNR’s training, A.M. Logging’s fire extinguisher vendor provided a hands-on demonstration, ensuring that every team member knew how to properly use this essential tool. “An extinguisher is a tool,” stated Andrew Miller, A.M. Logging’s Operations Manager. “It needs to be in working condition, at a known location, and used correctly.”
The day concluded with an event analysis led by A.M. Logging’s Managing Partner, Mark Byler. The team reflected on past incidents, discussing how they could have responded differently given the day’s new knowledge. “Having the training is a good thing,” said Byler, “looking at and knowing how to apply it is what really matters. Getting our team home safely every day is always our number one goal, protecting our equipment and the forest is also important. Arming our team with this training will help accomplish all of this.”
At A.M. Logging, safety is more than a checkbox—it’s a core value. By investing in training such as the DCNR’s Wildfire Prevention, Preparedness, and Response course, A.M. Logging proactively ensures the safety of its team, the protection of its equipment, and the preservation of the forests it operates in. As wildfires become an increasing concern in Pennsylvania and beyond, the knowledge and preparedness of teams like A.M. Logging will be crucial in safeguarding both lives and landscapes.
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*This article was adapted for FRA’s Woods to Mill series. A.M. Logging LLC posted the original article on Aug.22, 2024.
