NWCG FAL3 Basic Faller Qualification Academy

Task Book Evaluation & Qualification Program

Four-Day Field Evaluation Academy for Experienced Sawyers

The NWCG FAL3 Basic Faller Qualification Academy is an intensive four-day field-based evaluation program designed for experienced chainsaw operators who are actively pursuing qualification as a NWCG FAL3 (Basic Faller).

This academy is specifically intended for individuals who already possess competent chainsaw skills and are seeking opportunities to complete evaluations and obtain sign-offs within their NWCG FAL3 Position Task Book. Participants work directly with qualified faller evaluators and experienced chainsaw professionals in a structured field environment focused on performance evaluation, qualification development, and task book completion.

Unlike introductory chainsaw courses, this academy assumes participants already have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate a chainsaw, perform limbing and bucking operations, and conduct basic tree felling activities. The primary purpose of the academy is to provide meaningful evaluation opportunities and mentorship to help participants progress toward qualification.

Throughout the academy, students receive individual coaching and performance evaluations while demonstrating proficiency in chainsaw safety, hazard assessment, saw maintenance, limbing, bucking, brushing, tree assessment, and basic felling operations. Evaluators provide direct feedback and documentation to support successful completion of FAL3 Position Task Book requirements.

To maximize evaluation opportunities and provide meaningful coaching, the academy maintains a maximum student-to-evaluator ratio of 3:1. This allows evaluators to closely observe student performance, provide individualized feedback, and complete task book evaluations in a safe and productive learning environment.

Completion of the academy does not guarantee qualification as a NWCG FAL3. Final qualification is dependent upon successful completion of all Position Task Book requirements, evaluator recommendations, and agency certification in accordance with current NWCG standards.

Student Eligibility Requirements

This academy is intended for experienced chainsaw operators who are actively working toward NWCG FAL3 qualification.

Students MUST:

Be proficient and competent at operating a chainsaw.
Be capable of safely performing limbing, bucking, brushing, and basic tree felling operations.
Demonstrate sound judgment and situational awareness in a field environment.
Be physically capable of performing chainsaw operations in rugged terrain and varying weather conditions.
Possess sufficient chainsaw experience to participate in performance evaluations with minimal instruction.

This Is Not an Introductory Chainsaw Course

Students who are new to chainsaw operations or who require basic chainsaw instruction should complete additional training and gain field experience prior to attending.

The majority of academy time is dedicated to field evaluations, task book completion opportunities, coaching, and performance assessments.

Prerequisites

Students must successfully complete one of the following courses prior to attendance:

S-112 Introduction to Chainsaws

S-212 Wildland Fire Chainsaws

Proof of completion is required before attendance.

FAL3 Position Task Book Requirement

Students must possess a current NWCG FAL3 (Basic Faller) Position Task Book.

Individuals who do not currently have an initiated FAL3 Task Book must request initiation through the California Prescribed Fire Council Training and Qualifications Portal prior to attending the academy.

The purpose of this academy is to provide qualified students with opportunities to complete evaluations and obtain sign-offs within their FAL3 Position Task Book.

Students arriving without an initiated task book may not be eligible to receive evaluation credit during the academy.

Evaluation Focus Areas

Participants will receive coaching and evaluation opportunities in:

Chainsaw Operations

Chainsaw safety
Operational risk management
Personal protective equipment use
Safe work practices

Saw Maintenance

Pre-operational inspections
Chain sharpening
Field maintenance
Equipment troubleshooting

Hazard Assessment

Work area assessment
Hazard identification
Escape route planning
Safety zone selection

Cutting Operations

Limbing
Bucking
Brushing
Compression and tension wood recognition

Tree Assessment

Lean assessment
Defect identification
Tree evaluation
Cutting plan development

Basic Tree Felling

Face cuts
Back cuts
Wedge use
Felling operations
Post-felling assessment

Operational Performance

Communication
Teamwork
Situational awareness
Decision-making
Risk management

Task Book Evaluation Opportunities

Students may receive evaluations and sign-offs toward:

Chainsaw safety requirements
Saw maintenance requirements
Hazard assessment tasks
Limbing assignments
Bucking assignments
Brushing assignments
Tree assessment tasks
Basic felling assignments
Communication competencies
Risk management competencies

Task book sign-offs are awarded solely at the discretion of qualified evaluators based on demonstrated performance and proficiency.

Required Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment

Students must provide:

Hard hat with eye protection
Hearing protection
Chainsaw chaps
Leather work gloves
Long-sleeve shirt
Long pants
Leather boots (8-inch preferred)

Field Gear

Day pack
Drinking water
Lunch and snacks
Weather-appropriate clothing
Rain gear as needed
Personal first aid kit

Chainsaw Equipment

Chainsaw in safe operating condition
Spare chain
Scrench/combination tool
Chain sharpening kit
Wedges
Basic maintenance tools

All chainsaws and equipment are subject to inspection prior to use. Unsafe equipment may be removed from service until deficiencies are corrected.

Registration Fees

General Registration

$695

Fire Practitioner Member Registration

$347.50

Student Fire Member Registration