From seedling to yellow belly
Pondos connects volunteer sawyers, land managers, and trail stewards working to keep ponderosa country open, safe, and accessible.
Pondos is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to training, connecting, and supporting the sawyers who keep our trails clear across ponderosa pine country. From first-time volunteers to veteran yellow bellies, we build the skills and community that make trail work possible.
We work alongside land managers, trail crews, and conservation organizations to coordinate meaningful projects where trained hands are needed most. Whether you're picking up a saw for the first time or you've been bucking logs for decades, there's a place for you here.
Get InvolvedMembership supports training resources, project coordination, and the infrastructure that keeps volunteer sawyers connected and equipped.
Our training framework mirrors the growth of the ponderosa itself — a clear, earned progression built on real skills and time in the field.
New to trail work. Learning the basics of saw safety, tool care, and Leave No Trace. Works under direct supervision on low-complexity projects.
Comfortable with crosscut fundamentals. Can clear routine blowdowns with minimal supervision. Beginning to understand hazard assessment.
Independent sawyer capable of leading small crews through moderate conditions. Competent with both crosscut and chainsaw. Mentors newer sawyers.
Experienced field leader capable of managing multi-crew projects in challenging terrain. Advanced felling and tension reading. Coordinates with land managers.
The old-growth tier. Veteran sawyers with years of field experience, deep technical knowledge, and a track record of developing the next generation. Recognizable to the community — and the forest.
Pondos coordinates with land managers across the region to deploy trained sawyers where the need is real. Here's a look at what's active.
Heavy winter blowdown on the North Fork trail system. Targeting 18 miles of ponderosa corridor before summer season opens.
Multi-season restoration project along the rim trail. Working with USFS to open fire-impacted sections to hiking and equestrian use.
Initial survey trip to document blowdown conditions and prioritize clearance needs ahead of a full summer deployment. Seeking experienced scouts.