On federal hand crews, the personnel trained to operate chainsaws are called _____.

• A. Supervisors
• B. Rakers
• C. Fellers
• D. Fallers

Answer: (D)

Fallers are the chainsaw operators on federal hand crews. They’re trained to cut and drop trees in a controlled way, which is essential for creating fire lines and reducing fuel along the path of a wildfire. This role requires understanding felling techniques, the direction you want the tree to fall, hinge wood, and safe escape routes, all while using proper PPE and chain-saw safety procedures. They work as part of the saw crew under the crew supervisor, focusing specifically on felling tasks. While terms like supervisors describe leadership roles, and other terms might refer to different tasks, the official designation for someone who operates a chainsaw to fell trees is faller.