This workshop is being held in La Crosse, WI (2 hours from Madison). Attendees will be based in La Crosse during the workshop and will receive lodging options via email.
Dates: Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13
Cost: $800
Level: Intermediate
Maximum Size: 125students
Classroom Site: TBD (La Crosse, WI)
Field Site: Community Trail Farm
Schedule:
Day 1: 8:00- 11:30 am Classroom; 12:30-5:00pm field
Day 2: 8:00-10:00 am Classroom; 10:00am-5:00pm field with one hour lunch break
Description
Trailwork often requires moving heavy objects in a variety of settings and conditions. Proper utilization of backcountry rigging systems can increase worker safety and efficiency while reducing environmental impacts. Through a combination of classroom and hands-on field time, participants will learn the fundamentals of safe rigging practices for both ground and aerial based operations.
Topics covered in this 2 day workshop include:
• Mechanical advantage
• Rigging equipment safety, maintenance, and Working Load Limits
• Systems of communication and safe working positions
• Job Hazard Analyses (JHA) and tailgate safety sessions
• Understanding vector forces
• Setting blocks and anchor systems
• Belaying heavy loads
Learning Objectives
Participants will be able to:
1. Articulate the name, use, Working Load Limit and safety concerns for each basic rigging component
2. Understand vector forces and directions of tension in a basic rigging system
3. Conduct a thorough site safety inspection
4. Demonstrate safe working positions and the system of communication.
Instructor
Jed Talbot, OBP Trailworks (PTBA Member Company)
Jed Talbot is the owner of OBP Trailworks, LLC (OBP), a Maine based company that designs, builds, and consults on all types of pedestrian and motorized trails. Hallmarks of OBP include technical stone work, rustic timber joinery, naturalistic accessible trails and challenging backcountry rigging systems. Jed’s philosophy is one that synthesizes traditional historic practices with innovative modern tools and techniques. His passion for understanding and developing safe and creative practices is matched by his desire to teach and inspire others who want to pursue conservation based work. Jed has facilitated over 100 workshops on trail building techniques and conservation related skills to volunteer, municipal, federal, private, public, and non-profit crews across the country. Jed is the Past President of the Professional TrailBuilders Association.