Idaho Project Work Chainsaw Cut 2025

On July 22, 2025, the Vegas Valley Hand Crew was conducting project work clearing brush with chainsaws along trails on the McCall Ranger District of the Payette National Forest. The crew had been working approximately two hours down the 315 Trail. While assisting in demonstrating a cutting technique, a swamper was struck on the leg by a chainsaw experiencing a kickback. The individual suffered a 1/2-inch deep, 3-inch wide cut to the lower leg. Crew medical personnel responded immediately and applied bandages to control the bleeding. The individual was carried to a helispot, where he was transferred to a helicopter and transported to the hospital in McCall. He was treated and released on light duty.