About the Tamalpais Fire Crew
The Tamalpais Fire Crew was created in 2005. The name is an homage to the Tamalpais Forest Fire Association, one of the earliest fire crews in Marin County.
The Tamalpais Fire Crews support wildfire suppression and wildfire risk reduction in Marin. This is done through:
- Vegetation management;
- Creating fuel breaks;
- Creating clear areas where crews can more safely fight fires.
Type 1 hand crews use hand tools (like pulaskis, chainsaws, and shovels) to clear areas of vegetation to stop the fire from spreading. The team of about 70 wildland Marin County firefighters often hike long distances carrying heavy packs to reach remote fire locations. These crews are considered self-sufficient for up to 24 hours, equipped with their own gear, food, and water. This allows them to stay in isolated areas while working on the fire.
Areas served
The Tamalpais Fire Crew provides assistance for CALFIRE and the United States Forest Service. This means the crew responds to wildfires across California.