CFS
CFS (Cubic Feet per Second) is a basic measurement that river rafting guides use to understand how much water is flowing in a river. Think of it as a way to measure how fast and powerful a river is at any given time. This number helps guides decide if the river is safe for different activities, what equipment to use, and which routes to take. It's similar to checking the weather before planning an outdoor event - guides check the CFS to plan safe and enjoyable river trips.
Examples in Resumes
Safely guided trips on Class III-IV rapids with CFS levels ranging from 800-3000
Trained new guides in reading CFS reports and water conditions
Made critical safety decisions based on daily CFS measurements during peak season
Typical job title: "River Rafting Guides"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find River Rafting Guides
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Guide Questions
Q: How do you make decisions about trip cancellations based on CFS readings?
Expected Answer: Senior guides should explain the relationship between CFS levels and safety thresholds for different trip types, discussing specific examples of when to modify or cancel trips based on water levels.
Q: How do you train new guides to interpret CFS readings in relation to different river features?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to teach others about how changing CFS levels affect rapids, hazards, and route choices, including practical examples from their experience.
Experienced Guide Questions
Q: How do different CFS levels change your approach to specific rapids?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how water levels affect specific river features and how they adjust their guiding technique accordingly.
Q: What sources do you use to monitor CFS levels and why?
Expected Answer: Should know multiple reliable sources for water level data and explain how they use this information in daily trip planning.
Entry Level Guide Questions
Q: What does CFS mean and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that CFS means Cubic Feet per Second and describe how it relates to basic river safety and trip planning.
Q: What are the normal CFS ranges for this river section during different seasons?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of typical seasonal flow patterns and their impact on rafting operations.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic understanding of CFS readings
- Ability to read daily river reports
- Knowledge of minimum and maximum safe CFS levels
- Basic river navigation skills
Mid (2-4 years)
- Advanced understanding of how CFS affects different rapids
- Ability to adjust routes based on water levels
- Experience with varying seasonal conditions
- Strong risk assessment skills
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert knowledge of river dynamics at all water levels
- Ability to train others in CFS interpretation
- Emergency response leadership
- Advanced trip planning and risk management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain what CFS means
- No experience reading river gauges or flow reports
- Lack of understanding about how CFS affects river difficulty
- No knowledge of seasonal flow patterns
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