@emilyhuguenin, that would be great!  I think investing in these certifications and skills would be very worthwhile for our club and greater outdoor community.

I think several more members might have just gotten chainsaw certifications at a recent clinic near Elkins. (I know Jess Sutton did.) The batteries are definitely the way those companies make money on the electric saws. That said, will one battery be enough for a day of trail work? Would be a bummer to run out of “fuel” halfway around your loop. The battery is really the investment here so keeping them in a warm place during the winter and properly charged will be key to protecting that investment. 

@kaernigmail-com, that's great news about more chainsaw certs!

I will be glad to care for this saw and store it in my garage or basement if we go this path.  I agree that the battery adds some questionable aspects.  I also cannot find a documental run time for this particular battery.  I think this would be utilized for lighter projects and shorter trail sections/days.  I never carry a chainsaw without an axe and a folding saw.  It would be no different with the electric chainsaw, but we could forego gas at least and the saw will be significant lighter for lugging down the trail.

As a "South" runner I vote you do what needs done to improve North trail maintenance for those willing to contribute time for making runnable trails.

On a side note; lately I believe Dennis Stottlemeyer keeps the trimmers for our area. 

Do we want to motion to approve a budget for a new chainsaw and then designate someone to make the decision on gas/electric and make the purchase?

@emilyhuguenin, I don't believe that to be necessary Emily.  There's already an active motion by Ian.  

A gas-powered saw is not actually desired, at this time.  We currently have ample access.

@acasseday Understood. So the original motion from Ian is just waiting for a second. 

I was waiting for someone else to speak up, but if needed to move this along I am willing to second. 

The budget definitely allows for this whether we buy everything or let someone donate the saw and we buy the battery. If it is not an emergent need, I also like the idea of sorting this one out in person. 

@emilyhuguenin I dont think we should club purchase a gas saw. Plenty of those floating around. I move we purchase an appropriate saw + battery or two if desired. Maybe one now and see how it holds up, and go from there. These decision making meetings come up frequently enough to adjust as needed.

We have a motion and a second for accepting a donation of a Stihl MSA200 chainsaw from Donald Marsh, to be stored with the North equipment, and to spend up to $350 on a battery and charger for the saw.

Any further discussion?  @arhodes5, do you have anything to add?

@acasseday I've been following the conversation. I support the motion to purchase the battery to accompany the donated electric chainsaw. 

We've discussed multiple times to host a club organized training weekend, whether it be chainsaw training, wilderness safety, etc. This has always been a good idea. So I support that too.