Lutheran Church Charities approved LCMS LERT advanced chainsaw instructors Marty Johnson and Pete Springmire will provide LERT Basic chainsaw training on May 1-2, 2026, at Camp Manitoqua. Please note: This is a new location in Frankfort, IL. It is a Christian camp that has asked for assistance in removing overgrown and storm-damaged trees.
This chainsaw training serves to increase our dedicated LERT volunteers’ capabilities and give them added capacity to extend mercy from the congregation to those who don’t have the means or skills to perform this dangerous work in their communities.
You must have previously completed the LERT Basic training class to participate in this class.
During the training, you will learn the following:
- Safe operation of a chainsaw
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Injury prevention
- Physics of cutting trees
- How to buck and limb fallen trees
- How to fell a tree
- How to clear debris in a safe and beneficial manner
To be authorized as an LCC and LCMS LERT Chainsaw operator or dragger, volunteers must attend both the classroom and hands-on training, as well as the workday.
Volunteers will need to bring the following if they have:
- Chainsaw, bar oil, gas, extra chains and bar
- Chaps and other Personal Protection Gear (hard hat, heavy work gloves, eye & ear protection, work boots)
- Outdoor work clothes and work boots appropriate for the weather at that time. (It is always wise to dress in layers)
- Bug Spray
We will have some chainsaws & PPE available for training if you do not have your own.
BASIC/INTERMEDIATE CHAINSAW TRAINING & WORKDAY SCHEDULE
Friday, May 1, Classroom
4:00 – 4:30 pm Check-in/Registration
4:30 – 8:30 pm Basic Chainsaw Safety Training
Saturday, May 1 Hands-on Training & Workday
Trainees must attend Friday's Safety Training to participate in the hands-on training
7:30 - 8:00 am Check-in/Registration & Breakfast/Group Photo
8:00 - 3:30 pm Hands on Chainsaw Training & Workday
Location:
Camp Manitoqua & Retreat Center (Note New Location)
8122 W. Sauk Trail
Frankfort, IL 60423
Cost: There is a $35.00 fee for those taking Chainsaw Basic Training for the first time only.
