AUBURN, Ala. (EETV)- There is an exciting new student organization at Auburn. The Wildland Fire Club or WFC has been created at Auburn University to allow students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience as well as help them earn the Wildland FireFighter Type 2 certification.
Also referred to as the FFT2, the certification is nationally recognized and administered by the National Wildlife Fire Coordinating Group and permits individuals to participate in wildland fire activities on public land.
The Auburn WFC was founded by former Auburn forestry student, James Elrod. Elrod is currently a graduate student in the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences. As an undergraduate, Elrod saw a need for students to learn the necessary skills related to wildfire management and the use of prescribed fire.
“This organization will be a great addition to our school as the WFC is dedicated to the education, certification, and safety of students passionate about wildland fire,” Elrod said.
Through partnerships with state and federal agencies, the WFC plans to provide students with the opportunity to participate in prescribed burns, allowing students to gain real experience in a safe and professional environment. The club also plans on being able to assist state agencies who have a shortage of qualified personnel in burn operations across the state.
