AAMU has the Nations FIRST student wildland fire-fighting crew certified by the U.S. Forest Service

Fire Dawgs Press Conference - Signing of MOU between AFC and Alabama A&M University. Being pioneers and leaders in the Forestry profession, Alabama A&M University is again leading the way in developing the Forestry profession and it's students.


Thirty students from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University (A&M) are participating in a groundbreaking endeavor, forming the nations first student wildland fire-fighting crew of its kind recognized by the U.S. Forest Service. As part of the training program and to provide students with firefighting skills, the school is partnering with the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC). This strong partnership and the willingness to afford forestry students such an opportunity has led the Forest Service to provide safety equipment and fund the first year of insurance for the students.

State Forester Linda Casey, University President Dr. Robert Hugine, and other representatives from both Alabama A&M and the Forest Service, as well as the student Fire Dawgs crew members were present at the A&M University campus on January 29, when the AFC and Alabama A&M signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a mutually agreeable framework for complementing the Commissions firefighting resources. This joint venture will provide the students an opportunity to assist in the suppression of wildland fires in Madison and Jackson counties, allowing hands-on experience and the observance of live fire conditions. The Fire Dawgs team will also be allowed to participate on prescribed burn fires after receiving certification.
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Source: State of Alabama Forestry Commission