Science of Tree Felling

Treehaven – Tomahawk, Wis.

Science of Tree Felling (FOR 396)

Fri.-Sun., Mar. 20-22, 2026

In this course, high schoolers will join UW-Stevens Point forestry undergraduate students and industry professionals in a 3-day, field-intensive chainsaw training. As part of this course, students will work directly with more than 10 industry professionals to gain the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to safely fell a tree. Through guided field training they will learn how to safely cut down, delimb, and buck a tree while earning an industry-recognized certificate and college credit. Specifically, students will learn directional felling and chainsaw safety while earning 1 credit in FOR 396 from UWSP and tree felling certification from UWSP and Husqvarna. Some online coursework will need to be completed during the four weeks leading to arrival at Treehaven. This is a change from previous years with the aim of providing more time in the woods handling a chainsaw. Students that applied for the 2026 course will be notified of their application status by Dec. 1, 2025.

High school students are eligible to apply for a scholarship to cover registration fees for this UW-Stevens Point Forestry course. Due to the generous support of our sponsors, all course fees are covered, including UW-Stevens Point tuition for this 1-credit course.

Please note that high school students are responsible for arranging their own lodging, transportation, and some meals.

Students that applied for the 2026 course will be notified of their application status by Dec. 1, 2025.

The scholarship is open to any high school junior or senior. Students from underrepresented or underserved populations are encouraged to apply.

We apologize for the inconvenience, but space is limited so only high school students awarded scholarships may enroll in this course.

Students that applied for the 2026 course will be notified of their application status by Dec. 1, 2025.

The scholarship application will be evaluated based on the merits of the answer to the short essay question.

Application Essay: In 300 words or less, describe why you want to participate in the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Tree Felling class. Be sure to comment on how you plan to use what you learn and how this class applies to your career interests.

Students that applied for the 2026 course will be notified of their application status by Dec. 1, 2025.

Dates/Times

Fri.-Sun., March 20-22, 2026

Program Location

The training will take place at Treehaven near Tomahawk, Wis. Please note that on-site lodging at Treehaven will not be available for high school participants. Some meals are provided on-site at Treehaven.

Prep Work Required

Some coursework will need to be completed before arriving at Treehaven.

For more forestry building skills high school students may also be interested in the 2026 Forestry Skills Camp.

Forestry Skills Camp is a one-week experience held during the summer at the Central Wisconsin Environmental Station for students considering a forest industry career. The camp features hands-on instruction in tree measurement and management, chainsaw safety and tree felling, milling and drying, and log and lumber grading.

“The hands-on learning technique paired with professionals is the source of confidence and knowledge we need for education. The students from MIHS were able to leave the course with an experience that created an opportunity to be skilled in a workforce position before they graduate high school.”

Klint Hischke — Science Teacher, Menominee Indian High School

2026 COURSE SPONSORS

2026 course sponsors will be announced soon. Thank you to the 2025 course sponsors for their generous assistance in scholarship funding, equipment, and volunteer instructor time.