Colorado Search and Rescue: The Role of CSAR and the SAR Fund
Colorado’s mountainous terrain and vast wilderness make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. However, with these adventures come the inevitable need for search and rescue (SAR) operations. That’s where the Colorado Search and Rescue Association (CSAR) comes in. As a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, CSAR serves as a vital resource for the state’s backcountry search and rescue (BSAR) teams. They provide a central point of contact for BSAR matters, offer support to these teams, and represent them to governmental agencies and the public.
Support CSAR
Support of CSAR helps us provide training, equipment, and advocacy for SAR teams across Colorado. This ensures they are ready to respond when lives are at risk.
In addition to CSAR’s efforts, the Colorado Search and Rescue Fund (SAR Fund) plays a critical role in supporting SAR operations. Created by the state, this fund helps offset the costs incurred by sheriffs during search and rescue missions. The SAR Fund is primarily funded by mandatory fees on certain sportsmen’s licenses and the voluntary Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue Card. However, these fees, set in the 1980s at just 25¢ per license, have not increased since then.
While the SAR Fund is not an insurance policy for individuals, it serves as a financial resource for sheriffs to cover SAR-related costs, including equipment and training. With an annual budget of around $400,000, the demand for funds regularly exceeds the supply. Most of the money goes toward ensuring SAR teams have the necessary tools and skills to respond effectively in future incidents.
Together, CSAR and the SAR Fund help ensure that Colorado’s SAR teams are always prepared to assist when needed most. Support directly contributes to these lifesaving efforts.
MtnTrekker.com to donate 10% of each sale
To help CSAR, MtnTrekker.com donates 10% of each sale to Colorado Search and Rescue each month. See our store for a variety of coffee blends and select outdoor gear.
For more information about Colorado Search and Rescue follow this link.
