About the Program
The Maryland-Delaware Master Logger Program helps loggers meet the ever-increasing demands of the logging profession. The courses provide information about current environmental regulations, forestry principles, and safe work practices.
Becoming a Master Logger publicly demonstrates an understanding of safe, environmentally and economically sound timber harvesting practices. The Maryland-Delaware Master Logger Program also works to raise public awareness of the professionals harvesting trees – one of the region’s important renewable resources.
The Maryland-Delaware Master Logger Program is endorsed by the Maryland State Implementation Committee of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) program, and administered by University of Maryland Extension and the Master Logger Steering Committee. The Maryland-Delaware Master Logger Program has reciprocal training agreements with Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Virginia, allowing the transfer of credits for portions of each state’s programs.
Master Loggers must initially complete four core courses within two years and submit proof of current First Aid and CPR training. These core courses are available as correspondence courses, enabling loggers to earn credits in evenings and down times. Master Loggers must also sign a letter of intent that embodies good business and harvest practices and must be at least 18 years old. Any persons under the age of 18 will be allowed to take Master Logger courses. However, they will not be acknowledged as a Master Logger until they reach 18 years of age.
Are you a landowner thinking about harvesting timber?
Also check out our publication on the timber sale process and our Woodland Stewardship site.