Harlan County is comprised of 259,784 acres of forest land, with 93% privately owned. Kentucky’s timber industry relies heavily on Certified Master Loggers to maintain a robust timber economy. Without certification, loggers cannot perform their jobs or meet industry objectives. Certified Master Loggers must receive six hours of continuing education credits every three years to maintain their certification.

In response to this need, the Harlan County Agriculture and Natural Resources agent collaborated with the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources and the Kentucky Master Logger office to organize a one-day session. This session provided Kentucky Master Loggers with the necessary continuing education credits, industry updates, and safety topics.

Nine Kentucky Master Loggers from five different companies attended the session. These participants received valuable updates and training, which are essential for their certification and continued contribution to the timber industry.

The session enabled the nine loggers to maintain their certification, ensuring they can continue to supply timber to the industry. Additionally, holding the session locally reduced travel time and expenses for the participants, making it more convenient and cost-effective for them to obtain their continuing education credits.