The original Kentucky Master Logger Program was developed by the University of Kentucky Department of Forestry and Natural Resources in 1992 as a voluntary educational program for teaching logging methods that benefit both industry and the forest, while protecting water quality. In 1998, after the passage of the Kentucky Forest Conservation Act (KFCA), all logging operations were now required to have one Kentucky Master Logger (KML) on site and in charge during all phases of a timber harvesting operation (KRS 149.330 - 149.355). In order to obtain a KML Designation, loggers had to attend and complete a KML 3-Day Program and were given until July of 2000 to comply.

In addition to requiring a KML on all timber harvesting operations, the KFCA also requires the use and implementation of logging best management practices (BMPs) in order to protect water quality. The 3-Day Program includes discussion and demonstration of logging BMPs, chainsaw safety, personal protective equipment and review of the inspection and enforcement process conducted by the Division of Forestry. After the KFCA passed in 1998, the KML Program became a partnership between UK’s Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, the Division of Forestry and the Kentucky Forest Industries Association.