The Kentucky Master Logger Program (KML) is a training program designed to enhance the loggers ability to operate efficiently within the framework of constantly changing environmental and safety regulations.
The Kentucky Forest Conservation Act (KRS 149.330 - 149.355) requires that every commercial logging operation in Kentucky have a master logger on-site and in charge at all times. The training is a three-day program, one day per week for a three-week period. Participants must attend and participate in all three days of the program to be designated as a Kentucky master logger.
The cost for all three programs is $85. The training includes discussion and demonstration of best management practices (BMPs) for logging, forest ecology, chainsaw safety, personal protective equipment and directional felling techniques. KML three-day program registration form
The Division of Forestry, along with the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and the Kentucky Forest Industries Association, provide the leadership, direction and instruction for the program. Visit the official master logger Web page for a complete list of upcoming classes.
People wanting to maintain their designation as a Kentucky master logger will need to complete six hours of continuing education over a three-year period following the issuance of their designation card. Kentucky recognizes equivalent training from other states.
Currently, Kentucky has reciprocal agreements with Indiana, Ohio, Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, Missouri, North Carolina, Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas. Loggers/operators who have completed equivalent training need to complete a reciprocity application.
READ AND PAY STRICT ATTENTION TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE TEMPORARY CARD before submitting the form for a temporary status. Temporary Kentucky Master Logger Form.
A person who wishes to be designated a Kentucky temporary master logger shall:
1. Submit a Kentucky Temporary Master Logger Form (KML-7) and pay the $50 application fee.
2. Submit a KML three-day program registration form along with the program fee. The applicant must register for a program to be held within four months from the application date.
3. The applicant may also register for a reciprocal program in another state as long it falls within the four-month period. Proof of their registration is required.
4. The Kentucky temporary master logger designation will expire four months from the date of issuance and no renewal shall be issued.
5. A person can receive only one Kentucky temporary master logger designation in his/her lifetime.
6. The logger or operator of a timber harvesting operation who uses a Kentucky temporary master logger shall, prior to beginning harvest, notify the appropriate local district office of the Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) of each operation on which the temporary master logger will be on-site and in charge.
7. The temporary master logger designation can be revoked if the logger or operator fails to notify KDF, or if harvesting has already started on the operation before notification.
Loggers who have violated the Forest Conservation Act and have failed to come into compliance with the law are deemed bad actors. Forest landowners can now check the bad actors list to determine the status of a logger prior to completing a contract for a harvest.
To request a KML information packet, contact Mark Schuster, the KML program coordinator. The packet includes a registration form, class schedule, reciprocity application, Logger's Guide to the Kentucky Forest Conservation Act brochure and a pocket-size best management practices guide book.
