Master Logger Certification (MLC©) is a performance-based program that formally recognizes those loggers who have attained the utmost level of training and experience, and who demonstrate an unending commitment to sound forest stewardship. It is the highest form of professional recognition for the logging sector in the state.

MLC© in Wisconsin

Not anyone can be a Master Logger. Every Master Logger applicant must meet or exceed strict performance standards that fall under seven distinct “Areas of Responsibility.” Their harvesting practices must pass a rigorous field audit and their operations must receive the unanimous approval of the Wisconsin MLC© Certification Board. The Certification Board is a diverse group of resource experts and stakeholders, all knowledgeable about the practice of sustainable forestry.

Once an individual becomes a Master Logger©, they must be prepared to meet the same verification standards on all of their work. This is done through bi-annual re-certification and a complaint system that can trigger a re-visit from field verifiers. The purpose of this program is not just to hold loggers to a higher standard, but to provide a gold standard that is recognizable by forest landowners and mills. To date, 24 Master Loggers have been certified, with more groups to follow.

Why is Certification Needed?

Why is certification needed for any profession? To give clients, customers, or the general public assurances that the person performing the job has the education, training, skill, and experience to do the job correctly. Many loggers already meet all the standards and criteria of the MLC© program. The problem is they don't have a formal way to prove it. Other loggers can easily meet the requirements with slight modifications to their operations. And some loggers will either not be able to meet the standards, or won't care to.

The Seven Areas of Responsibility

The American Logging Council developed seven Areas of Responsibility for the nation-wide Master Logger program. Any logger wishing to become a certified Master Logger must meet or exceed strict performance standards in each of the following seven areas:

1. Water quality and soils protection
2. Compliance with government regulations
3. Compliance with acceptable silviculture and utilization standards
4. Participation in an on-going training regimen
5. Implementation of aesthetic management techniques
6. Adherence to a site-specific management plan that is agreed to by the landowner
7. Utilization of sound business management principles

For More Information

If you are interested in learning more about the Master Logger program, contact FISTA at 1-800-551-2656 or via email at info@fistausa.org.

If you wish to become a Master Logger, download and complete the Master Logger application form. Mail your completed form, along with your application fee to:

Forest Industry Safety & Training Alliance, Inc.(FISTA)
3243 Golf Course Road
Rhinelander, WI 54501
1-800-551-2656
info@fistausa.org