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Intermediate Faller

FAL2 Incident Position Description

The Intermediate Faller (FAL2) has demonstrated the proficiency to work unsupervised while engaging in moderate complexity fireline saw operations, including tree felling, bucking, brushing, and limbing. A FAL2 may perform FAL1 tasks under the direct supervision of a FAL1. The FAL2 may serve as a single resource or as a member of a firefighting crew or module and may at times be tasked to provide oversight to other Basic Fallers (FAL3). A FAL2 serving as part of a module, reports to a Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) or one of the Single Resource Bosses (FELB, CRWB, ENGB, FIRB, HMGB). A FAL2 serving as a single resource reports to a Felling Boss (FELB), Strike Team/Task Force Leader (TFLD), or other assigned supervisor. The FAL2 works in the operations functional area.

Leadership Level 2, New Leader (Convey Intent)

  • For additional information review Level 2 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare

  • Remain mentally and physically fit and able to determine when conditions have changed, affecting your fitness for duty status.
  • Ensure individual and equipment readiness.
  • Continually strive to improve, learn from others, and develop safe practices that reinforce good habits and decision making.

Mobilize

  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at the assignment. Notify incident supervisor and/or dispatch when arriving at the incident.
  • Obtain initial briefing from supervisor.

Build the Team

  • Participates in the development and implementation of saw related objectives, priorities, and work assignments for saw team members.
  • Participate in training and mentoring Basic Fallers (FAL3) in the classroom and field.

Perform Intermediate Faller-Specific Duties

  • Able to develop and safely execute a plan to resolve low to moderate complex saw operations that may require use of unconventional techniques.
  • Maintain certification and qualification by demonstrating proficiency of Intermediate Faller knowledge and technical skill to a qualified Intermediate or Advanced Faller evaluator(s) per agency protocol.
  • Continue learning tree anatomy and defects contributing to failure, as well as teaching less-experienced sawyers fundamental elements of tree anatomy.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of chainsaw components and proficiency in maintenance and repair.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Establish and maintain positive communication and coordination with saw teams, your crew, adjoining resources, and supervisors in the work area.
  • Before engaging, receive a thorough briefing from the appropriate supervisor addressing all saw operation specifications and associated expectations.
  • Participate in AARs and information sharing.

Manage Risk

  • Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461.
  • Apply Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) to all saw operations.
  • Plan for and manage medical emergencies.
  • Report all accidents, injuries, or near misses to supervisor.
  • Comply with all standards for chainsaw operations as defined in NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Chainsaw Operations, PMS 212, and established agency standards for saw operating procedures.
  • Establish and maintain work area control.
  • Develop and follow safe cutting area practices when using a swamper during saw operations.
  • Recognize changes in operational complexity and report pertinent changes to the appropriate supervisor.

Demobilize

  • Ensure equipment is in good working condition for next assignment and resupply used or damaged equipment as necessary.
  • Return equipment and supplies to appropriate units.
  • Complete demobilization checkout process before being released from the incident.
  • Upon demobilization, report status to the home unit including reassignment or estimated time of arrival (ETA) to the home unit.
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NWCG Latest Announcements

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for RADO and INCM

Date: July 30, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Incident Logistics Subcommittee
 

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Radio Operator (RADO) and Incident Communications Center Manager (INCM).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Radio Operator Position Page

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ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-004 NEW Aquatic Invasive Species – Golden Mussels

Date: July 29, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee
 

The Equipment Technology Committee (ETC) issued Equipment Bulletin: 25-004, notifying the wildland fire community about a newly discovered invasive species and actions to take if found. Golden mussels, a highly invasive species recently identified in California, pose a significant risk to native ecosystems, infrastructure, and fire equipment. These mussels rapidly colonize hard and soft surfaces, including aquatic plants and fire equipment, clogging pipes, fouling motors, disrupting water systems, and impacting native species.

To help prevent their spread, fire personnel must follow the decontamination procedures outlined in the NWCG Guide to Preventing Aquatic Invasive Species Transport by Wildland Fire Operations, PMS 444. Additionally, report any sightings immediately to your Lead Resource Advisor and include clear, close-up photos and location details.

Read the complete ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-004 to learn more. 

References:

NWCG Alerts

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-004

NWCG Guide to Preventing Aquatic Invasive Species Transport by Wildland Fire Operations, PMS 444

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for ICT5 and FFT1

Date: July 29, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Incident Command Subcommittee
Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5) and Firefighter Type 1 Squad Boss (FFT1).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Incident Commander Type 5 Position Page

NWCG Firefighter Type 1 Squad Boss Position Page

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for ATBM and FWBM

Date: July 28, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Airtanker Base Operations Unit

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Airtanker Base Manager (ATBM) and Fixed Wing Base Manager (FWBM).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Airtanker Base Manager Position Page

NWCG Fixed Wing Base Manager Position Page