We traveled from our SCA housing in Raleigh, NC to Longview, WA for SCA training.
Our formal training was used to introduce everyone to the SCA organization. While some crews were just meeting for the first time, we had already gathered for a bit in Raleigh and were able to discuss more in-depth our expectations for the next six months.
Over the course of the week, the Ragin’ Raleighs learned about Field Operation Standards, driving and safety concerns with the company vehicles, ERPs, IRFs, opportunities within the SCA, and Leave No Trace principles. A great deal of our time at Camp Evergreen was spent on team-building/bonding. We played many games of ninja, spoons, hacky-sack, and even did a little penguin dance.
The end of the week focused on becoming CPR and Wilderness First Air certified, with the help of the Aerie Backcountry Medicine team. Through lecture, small group work, and hands-on scenarios, all of the crew was able to successfully complete WFA training. On our last day, we learned about base camp setup, tool safety, and mechanical advantage. Then we departed Longview for our new home in Raleigh.
The second week we spent training with Mr. Rogers, our contact from the North Carolina Division of Forest Resources. The Ragin’ Raleighs were introduced to the NC Fire Wise program, GIS map-making, GPS basics, fuel models, CWPPs, and how to perform community assessments.
Having three days was a short time period to go through everything and we only skimmed the service on most of the subject matter. A larger emphasis on how to fill out the CWPPs, Community Wildfire Protection Plans, community assessments and the Microsoft Access program was placed. These last three subject matters were the key tools needed to successfully put together our final products over the next six months.
On our last day of training, Mr. Rogers and the crew were introduced to several of the County Rangers we will be working with. The second half of our day was spent practicing filling out community assessments in Wayne County.
After two weeks of training, the Ragin’ Raleighs were eager to begin work. They felt their training had prepared them for the work to be done.
