Wildlife
Chainsaw and Safety
Heavy Equipment Operation
Tree ID
Tree harvesting
100
What large mammal is commonly found in the Adirondack Mountains and is known for its impressive antlers?
The moose.
100
What type of personal protective equipment (PPE) should always be worn when operating a chainsaw?
Helmet with face shield or safety goggles, hearing protection, cut-resistant gloves, chainsaw chaps or pants, steel-toe boots, and a long-sleeve shirt.
100
What is the first thing an operator should do before starting a piece of heavy equipment?
Perform a pre-operation inspection, including checking fluids, tires/tracks, lights, safety devices, and looking for leaks or damage.
100
Which tree has needles in clusters of five and is the state tree of New York?
Eastern White Pine
100
What is a common method of sustainable tree harvesting used in Northern New York forests?
Selective cutting, which removes specific trees while leaving the rest of the forest intact.
200
What large bird of prey with a white head and is often seen near rivers and lakes in the region?
The osprey
200
Why is it important to inspect a chainsaw before each use?
To check for loose parts, sharpness of the chain, proper chain tension, fuel/oil levels, and to ensure it's in safe working condition.
200
Why is wearing a seatbelt important in heavy equipment, even in enclosed cabs?
It keeps the operator safe in case of a rollover and ensures proper control of the machine.
200
What tree has leaves with three to five lobes and produces winged seeds called samaras?
Sugar Maple
200
Why is winter often preferred for harvesting trees in Northern New York?
Frozen ground protects soil and reduces erosion and damage to understory plants.
300
Which cold-water fish species is native to Adirondack lakes and streams and is popular with anglers?
The brook trout.
300
What is the "kickback zone" on a chainsaw bar?
The top half of the tip of the guide bar—this area can cause the saw to jerk back toward the operator unexpectedly.
300
Why is wearing a seatbelt important in heavy equipment, even in enclosed cabs?
It keeps the operator safe in case of a rollover and ensures proper control of the machine.
300
Which tree has smooth, gray bark and simple, oval leaves with a pointed tip?
American Beech.
300
What government agency helps regulate forest management and harvesting in New York State?
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
400
What large aquatic mammal, reintroduced to Northern New York in the early 1900s, builds lodges and dams?
The beaver
400
What safety feature helps prevent injury in a kickback situation?
The chain brake, which stops the chain when activated.
400
What should you always check before moving heavy equipment in any direction?
That the area is clear of people, obstacles, and overhead hazards (like power lines).
400
What conifer has flat, scale-like needles and small, woody cones, and is commonly used for hedges?
Eastern Arborvitae (also known as Northern White Cedar).
400
What is the difference between clearcutting and selective cutting?
Clearcutting removes all trees in an area; selective cutting removes only certain trees, preserving forest structure.
500
What small, colorful migratory bird, known for its red throat in males, is common in summer and feeds on nectar?
The ruby-throated hummingbird.
500
What is the correct stance when using a chainsaw?
Feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, both hands on the saw, and the saw close to your body for control.
500
What does a “spotter” do on a job site?
A spotter guides operators safely, especially in blind spots or tight spaces, and helps prevent accidents.
500
Which tree has deeply furrowed bark and compound leaves with 7–11 leaflets?
Black Walnut
500
What 6 types of trees are commonly harvested in Northern New York for sawlogs and pulpwood?
Sugar maple, red maple, yellow birch, spruce, balsam fir, and white pine.
600
Which small, nocturnal mammal in Northern New York is known for its black mask and ringed tail?
The racoon
600
Why should you never operate a chainsaw above shoulder height?
it reduces control, increases fatigue, and makes kickback more dangerous.
600
Why is it important to use equipment only for its intended purpose?
Using equipment improperly can cause mechanical failure, injury, or equipment damage.
600
Which tree is known for its peeling, white bark and triangular leaves with toothed edges?
Paper Birch.
600
How can tree harvesting benefit forest health?
It can reduce overcrowding, remove diseased or damaged trees, and promote regeneration of diverse species.
700
What small, blood-feeding insect is a serious pest in the Adirondacks during spring and early summer?
The black fly.
700
What should you do before cutting a tree or branch?
Survey the area for hazards, identify escape routes, and assess the tree’s lean, limbs, and tension points.
700
What should you do if an equipment warning alarm or light activates during operation?
Stop the machine safely, shut it down, and report or troubleshoot the issue before continuing.
700
What hardwood tree has alternate leaves, serrated edges, and produces acorns?
Oak (e.g., Red Oak or White Oak).
700
What is a log landing?
A designated area where harvested logs are collected, sorted, and loaded for transport.
800
What made this track?
The whitetail deer
800
Why is it dangerous to cut with the tip of the chainsaw bar?
It can cause kickback, potentially leading to serious injury.
800
How should you park and secure heavy equipment when not in use?
Lower all attachments to the ground, set the parking brake, shut off the engine, and remove the key.
800
What tree has opposite leaves and winged fruit, and is often found in wet areas?
Silver Maple
800
What is one major ecological concern during tree harvesting in Northern New York?
Protecting wildlife habitat, including nesting areas and migration corridors, especially for sensitive species.
900
Which aquatic habitat, found throughout Northern New York, supports loons, otters, and brook trout?
Cold, clear lakes and streams.
900
What is the purpose of using a chainsaw with low-kickback chain?
It reduces the chance of violent kickback, especially for less experienced users.
900
What is the danger of operating heavy equipment on steep slopes?
It increases the risk of rollovers or losing control, which can lead to serious accidents.
900
What evergreen tree has short, flat needles and upright cones that disintegrate on the branch?
Balsam Fir.
900
What type of habitat does the white pine typically grow in?
The white pine thrives in well-drained soils and is commonly found in mixed forests throughout the northeastern U.S., including the Adirondacks in Northern New York.
1000
What early successional habitat, created after disturbances like fire or logging, is important for species like the snowshoe hare and American woodcock?
Young forests and shrublands.
1000
What should you do if your chainsaw gets stuck in a tree during a cut?
Turn off the saw immediately and use a wedge or another saw to free it—never yank it out while it’s running.
1000
What is the proper way to enter or exit heavy equipment?
Use the “three points of contact” method—two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand at all times.
1000
What is unique about the tamarack compared to most other coniferous trees?
It is a deciduous conifer—it loses its needles in the fall.
1000
What is the significance of the white pine in New York's history?
The white pine was historically an important resource for the timber industry, as its straight, tall trunks were used for ship masts during the colonial era. It is also the state tree of New York.