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About

Fall Line River School, is based in Richmond, VA, serving outdoor enthusiasts everywhere.  We offer world-class instruction and certification courses in swiftwater rescue, whitewater paddling, and wilderness medicine.  Fall Line River School works with guide companies, outfitters, groups, and individuals to provide them with exceptional instruction based on real-world experience.  

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Our Expertise ​

Fall Line River School is an authorized provider for Sierra Rescue InternationalAmerican Canoe Association, and American CPR Training offering instruction for everyone from recreationists to professionals. Our instructors are certified and vetted at the highest industry standards.

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Quality Learning​

 Students are immersed in an engaging hands-on learning environment designed to give them skills that can immediately be put into practice.  We personalize the learning experience for each student and teach them proven field techniques. We want you to have the best learning experience possible.​

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Risk Management

Fall Line River School makes risk management a top priority.  The nature of our programs are dynamic and contain inherent risk.  Achieving an acceptable level of risk requires us to continuously assess environmental hazards and human factors. We practice "challenge-by-choice" during our programs, giving participants the opportunity to opt in and opt out of activities based on personal risk tolerance.  Acceptable risks should be inherent to the activity, attached to a learning outcome, appropriate for the skill level of the group, and consciously accepted.  

Be Empowered

Fall Line River School courses are open to all individuals who acknowledge the ability to perform the ACA's Essential Eligibility Criteria.  We treat all of our participants with courtesy and respect.  We welcome and empower our students get the most out of their learning experience by participating in goal setting, feedback, and mentorship.

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Crew
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Meet Our Owner

Karl Schmidt 

Karl is an educator and risk management professional with over 15 years of outdoor industry experience.  Having served as a river-ranger, college outdoor program coordinator, ski patroller, river guide, safety boater, remote medical operations manager, college lecturer, and expedition leader, allows Karl to blend academic knowledge with extensive practical experience in diverse outdoor environments.  

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Karl works with youth and adult learners, aiming to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment while prioritizing safety for his students. He brings professionalism and an infectious enthusiasm to each course he teaches

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Karl's credentials include:

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  • SRI River Rescue Instructor Trainer

  • ACA  L4 Whitewater Kayak Instructor Trainer

  • ACA L4 Swiftwater Rescue Instructor Trainer

  • SRI River Rescue Pro Instructor

  • ACA L5 Advanced Whitewater Kayak Instructor

  • ACA L5 Advanced Whitewater Rafting Instructor

  • ACA L5 Advanced Swiftwater Rescue Instructor

  • SRI Wilderness Medical Instructor

  • American CPR Training Affiliate Instructor

  • Nationally Registered EMT - Basic

  • Wilderness EMT

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