NWCG FAL3 Basic Faller Qualification Academy
NWCG FAL3 Basic Faller Qualification Academy
Task Book Evaluation & Qualification Program
The California Prescribed Fire Council is pleased to offer the NWCG FAL3 Basic Faller Qualification Academy, a four-day field-based evaluation academy designed for experienced chainsaw operators pursuing qualification as a NWCG FAL3 (Basic Faller).
This academy is intended for competent sawyers who already possess the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to safely perform chainsaw operations and are seeking opportunities to complete evaluations and obtain sign-offs within their NWCG FAL3 Position Task Book.
Important
This is NOT an introductory chainsaw course. Students must already be proficient and competent at operating a chainsaw and capable of safely performing limbing, bucking, brushing, and basic tree felling operations.
Academy Highlights
- Four days of intensive field-based evaluations and coaching
- Opportunities to complete FAL3 Position Task Book requirements
- Individualized instruction from qualified Faller Evaluators
- Direct coaching and mentorship from experienced sawyers
- Maximum 3:1 student-to-evaluator ratio
- Enrollment limited to 12 students
Student Eligibility
Students must:
- Be proficient and competent at operating a chainsaw
- Safely perform limbing, bucking, brushing, and basic felling operations
- Demonstrate sound judgment and situational awareness
- Be physically capable of performing chainsaw operations in rugged terrain
- Possess sufficient field experience to participate in evaluations with minimal instruction
Prerequisites
Students must have successfully completed:
- S-112 Introduction to Chainsaws
- OR
- S-212 Wildland Fire Chainsaws
Proof of completion is required prior to attendance.
FAL3 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 Program prior to attending.
Students arriving without an initiated task book may not be eligible to receive evaluation credit during the academy.
Evaluation Focus Areas
- Chainsaw Safety
- Operational Risk Management
- Saw Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Hazard Assessment
- Limbing and Bucking Operations
- Brushing Operations
- Tree Assessment
- Basic Tree Felling
- Communication and Teamwork
- Situational Awareness and Decision-Making
Required Equipment
Personal Protective Equipment
- Hard hat with eye protection
- Hearing protection
- Chainsaw chaps
- Leather gloves
- Long-sleeve shirt
- Long pants
- Leather boots (8-inch preferred)
Chainsaw Equipment
- Chainsaw in safe operating condition
- Spare chain
- Scrench
- Sharpening kit
- Wedges
- Basic maintenance tools
Field Gear
- Day pack
- Drinking water
- Lunch and snacks
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Rain gear
- Personal first aid kit
Registration Fees
General Registration: $695
Fire Practitioner Member: $347.50
Student Fire Member: $347.50
Fire Practitioner Members and Student Fire Members receive a 50% discount.
Enrollment Limited to 12 Students
Maximum 3:1 Student-to-Evaluator Ratio
California Prescribed Fire Council
Building Capacity • Supporting Qualifications • Expanding Good Fire Across California
www.calrxfire.org
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Event Information
| Event Date | 08-03-2026 8:00 am |
| Event End Date | 08-06-2026 6:00 pm |
| Capacity | 12 |
| Registered | 0 |
| Available Place | 12 |
| Individual Price | $695.00 |