IMPORTANT NOTE: This position is being phased out. The position will be eliminated as of December 31, 2008. All TNC-VCM qualified personnel must become qualified as FFT2. See the memo from the Fire Management Advisory Team for details.

The TNC Volunteer Crew Member is a TNC volunteer who participates in prescribed fire operations: ignition, control, mop-up, monitoring, etc., but does not meet the FFT2 position standard. This is a TNC-specific position that can be used for a prescribed burn crew member only if the following criteria are met:

• the individual is a volunteer for The Nature Conservancy
• the prescribed burn is of low complexity as defined by The Nature Conservancy's complexity rating system
• the individual signs the Release of Liability by a Volunteer Crew Member form
• the Volunteer Crew Member is under the supervision of a person qualified as FFT2 or higher

Note: Most TNC volunteers meet the FFT2 training and qualifications standards and are not included in the TNC-VCM category.

Qualification, Training and Experience Requirements

The minimum training qualification is:

• a one day training session that includes fire behavior, safety, fire operations and equipment
• a training burn
• annual physical fitness test
• annual safety refresher

Administrative Requirements for Using the TNC-VCM position

A release form is required of the TNC Volunteer Crew Member. This form affirms that the volunteer is in good health, and he or she understands what is expected on the burn. It also releases the Conservancy from any claims with regard to damage or personal injury related to the volunteer's participation on the burn. You should consult your Conservancy attorney before using a waiver. The form is available from the legal section of the TNC Fire Intranet site.

The Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating Worksheet must be completed for burns on which the TNC-VCM position is used. Download it from the link below, plus the explanatory cover memo on the same web page. Contact Paula Seamon (pseamon@tnc.org) if you have questions or comments on the form.
Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating Worksheet and Cover Memo.

How to Be Designated a TNC-VCM

The TNC-VCM must complete the required training and experience to become qualified. The local Burn Boss has the authority to qualify an individual as a TNC-VCM. The TNC-VCM must maintain documentation of their training and experience just as individuals in other positions must.

Last updated April 21, 2008.