The 2026 WSI participants The SAWS brand wasn't the only thing that received an overhaul in 2026. The Southern Appalachian Wilderness Skills Institute (WSI), co-hosted by SAWS, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and the U.S. Forest Service, underwent several changes as well. The program was condensed from two weeks to one and moved earlier into May to avoid conflicts with holidays and other events. These changes reflect the program’s core purpose, building the practical skill