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News Release:
First Hotshot Crew to be certified on the Six Rivers National Forest
[Shield]: US Forest Service

US Forest Service
Six Rivers National Forest

Contact:
Julie Ranieri
(707) 441-3673
jranieri@fs.fed.us

Eureka, May 27, 2008

[Photograph]: Hotshot Crew
Saturday, the Ukonom Crew stationed at the Orleans Ranger District was the first crew in the history of the Six Rivers National Forest fire management program to be certified as a hotshot crew.

They will now be the 16th Type I Hotshot Crew positioned across the northern part of California in Region 5 to assist other crews during this summer’s fire season.

"Hotshots are the most highly trained crews we have to fight wildfires," said District Ranger Bill Rice, whose Orleans Ranger District will host and support the crew. They are utilized in the most difficult and hazardous terrain in the fire environment.

The Ukonom Hotshots, led by Crew Superintendent John Cataldo, will also be available nationally to respond to wildfires outside California.

"The crew worked hard over the last three years to meet the strict training and physical requirements to become a “Hotshot Crew”," said Rice. "This is a huge accomplishment because of the commitment it takes to retain leadership and crew cohesion to be efficient and safe."

"Leadership is essential to sustain a hotshot crew over the long haul," said Rice. "Even though they are a national resource, these crews become a high value community resource and role model for the communities they serve in," said Rice.

To learn more about hotshots visit www.fs.fed.us/fire/people/hotshots/.

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