What is the recommended saw team configuration for moderate fuel types?

• A. 2 saw/swamper teams and an equal number of cutters and scrapers
• B. 1 saw/swamper team with more scrapers
• C. 3 saw/swamper teams with more cutters
• D. 0 saw teams with only scrapers

Answer: (A)

Moderate fuel types require a balance of cutting power and finishing tasks to keep the fireline advancing efficiently and safely. Using two saw/swamper teams provides enough cutting capability to quickly knock down brush and small trees, while still leaving enough crew to handle handline work. Having an equal number of cutters and scrapers ensures the line is both cleared and cleaned to the required width. Cutters handle the brush and woody debris, while scrapers focus on removing loose material and shaping the edge so the line won’t rekindle or fail to contain the fire.

This setup avoids slowing down the crew by having too few saws, and it avoids overstaffing with saws at the expense of finishing tasks. It also maintains a practical balance—not as wasteful as adding a third saw team, and not as slow as relying on a single saw or no saws at all.