One of the many jobs that exists within the burgeoning forestry industry is a job know as a bucker, which is certainly an interesting-sound activity! The function of this job is part of the overall logging process that goes on within the forests of this country.

After marked trees are felled by lumberjacks, bucking is the next step and a very important process in logging operations. A bucker saws felled trees into standard lengths using a power chain saw. In bigger timber-cutting processes, a bucking station is set up since it takes more time to do this function and cutting accuracy must be achieved for the logging company to be profitable.

Requirements

Buckers spend all of their time outdoors working back-to-back with fellers. The task requires great physical strength and must also be knowledgeable about specifications about trees such as acceptable species, knots, diameter, length, defects and even their growth rate. They must know about different techniques in bucking as well as the safe usage of bucking equipment such as chain saws.

Like other logging workers, being a bucker requires extensive manual labor. During the logging operation, they must also know how to carefully and safely use expensive and complicated forestry equipment, which is often provided by each forestry company.

Training

The occupation of bucker is typically accomplished by acquiring the necessary skills and learning through mentoring or hands-on experience. There is training available such as: safety in the work place; how to hold a chain saw and maintenance procedures; and working procedures. Sometimes, a training package can be obtained that may include videos and manuals. It will also outline the bucker’s minimum acceptable training standards.

Knowledge of Tools

There are different types of tools that buckers use to accomplish their daily tasks; the primary tool used is always the chain saw. Powering this machine is a two-cycle gas-powered motor. Depending on brand and size of this powerful tool, it can weigh up to 60 lbs or more; although modern versions of this machine have become faster, lighter and more powerful. Beside the noise and vibration during operation, improper or reckless handling could lead to severe cutting injuries, disability and even death. It is important to follow the guidelines for safe chain saw operations and become extremely familiar with each manufacturer’s user manual to avoid any possible accidents.

Safety Precautions

Safety should always be observed and buckers need to carefully plan their work. Hazards can be avoided by keeping in mind the simple precautions listed below.

• Footing - Be aware of footing within the operations area. Footing should be firm; avoid standing on logs with bark or any materials that will possibly roll the log once it has been cut.

• Careful Area Inspection – Thoroughly inspect the operations area and ensure that there are no hazards such as the potential for falling trees, rolling logs or any other dangerous movement of material. Do not work in such an area as much as possible.

• Look for Obstructions - Ensure that all possible obstructions have been removed and that all escape routes in the area have been cleared for safe bucking.

• Check Log Position - Make sure that the log to be cut is in a safe position; never try to buck when the log position is considered to be hazardous in any way.

• Dexterity - Make sure that the bucker can handle the chain saw with either the right or left hand.

• Read the Manual - Ensure that the owner’s manual for safe operation of the chain saw being used has been read by every bucker.

• First Aid Training - Learn basic first aid in order to competently respond to minor injuries or any life-threatening situations.

Salary

A bucker’s salary varies according to the size of the company running the operation and the geographical location as well. An individual working for a big company has the potential to earn more salary as compared to those who are working with smaller companies. It is possible, depending on the individual employer, for buckers to be offered full-time work with basic benefits as well as provision for needed equipment and safety apparel.

The above is basic information about the forestry job known as a bucker. It cannot be denied that it is a physically demanding job, dependent upon so many external conditions including weather. Many who work in this occupation find it an exciting way to always be working outdoors and remaining in outstanding physical condition!