Category: Search and Rescue News

By Joshua Duttry
IT Director and UAS Specialist, La Plata County Search and Rescue

Search and Rescue Drones with Thermal Imaging are transforming how modern SAR teams operate in challenging environments. At La Plata County Search and Rescue (LPCSAR), our UAS team has been steadily evolving into a regional leader in drone-based SAR operations, offering capabilities that support ground teams, enhance situational awareness, and reduce search times, all while improving safety for both rescuers and subjects. Our use of non-standard optical payloads like thermal (FLIR), near-infrared (NIR), and multispectral sensors reflects a forward-thinking approach to backcountry emergencies, and we’re proud to serve as a model for other SAR teams across Colorado and beyond.

Thermal Imaging in Action

Real-World Impact: How Thermal Imaging Enhances SAR Effectiveness

Thermal imaging isn’t science fiction, it’s life-saving technology. By detecting heat signatures, thermal-equipped drones help spot lost or injured individuals, even in low-light or zero-visibility conditions. In densely forested areas or at night, human eyes or visible spectrum optics may fail. But a trained thermal operator can identify the subtle contrast between a human heat signature and the surrounding environment.

LPCSAR conducts extensive training exercises in rugged terrain using thermal optics to identify simulated subjects hidden in tree cover, behind rock outcroppings, or camouflaged in sagebrush. These drills have highlighted the unique strengths of thermal imaging: pinpointing recently traveled trails, detecting residual heat from recently occupied spots, and distinguishing wildlife from human profiles.

Understanding Thermal Camera Capabilities: Not All FLIR is Equal

One of the biggest misconceptions we encounter is the idea that “thermal can see through trees.” It can’t. What it can do is detect differences in temperature that may be visible through gaps in the canopy or over open terrain. But the capability of the sensor matters.

A 640×512 thermal sensor with a high refresh rate and a narrow field-of-view lens offers significantly better performance than a 320×240 unit with a wide lens. This is not just about resolution, it’s about the ability to detect, differentiate, and track. That’s why choosing the right equipment is vital when fielding Search and Rescue Drones with thermal Imaging.

SAR teams looking to adopt FLIR should understand that specifications like thermal sensitivity (NETD), optical zoom pairing, and radiometric capabilities dramatically affect mission success. “Buyer beware” is essential in this field; underpowered sensors can lead to missed detections or false positives.

Behavioral Insights: Why Thermal Imaging Aligns with Lost Person Behavior

Subjects often act unpredictably. They may sleep, hide, or become unresponsive due to injury, fear, or hypothermia. These behaviors make visual identification difficult, especially at night or in poor conditions.

Thermal optics provide an advantage by detecting body heat rather than relying on movement or color contrast. We’ve used thermal UAS in training scenarios to simulate these situations and confirm that even immobile subjects hidden in low cover can often be identified via their heat signature, something traditional searchers might walk past.

This ability to find individuals who aren’t calling out, waving, or visible is one of the most psychologically significant contributions Search and Rescue drones with thermal imaging bring to field operations.

Expanding Optical Tools in SAR

Leveraging Near Infrared and Search and Rescue Drones with Thermal Imaging

NIR sensors, more commonly used in agriculture or forestry, have untapped value in SAR. These sensors can detect subtle differences in vegetation health and ground disturbance, such as a recently trampled trail. In our region’s varied terrain, including alpine meadows, ponderosa pine forests, and red rock canyons, these capabilities offer new methods of locating clues.

We’re exploring how NIR might support forensic tracking, blood detection under specific conditions, or identifying recently disturbed ground. Though not as widely used as thermal yet, multispectral sensors represent an exciting frontier for future SAR tools.

Situational Awareness at the Command Level: Streaming Thermal Video to IC

One of the most powerful ways UAS supports SAR is by giving real-time data to Incident Command. Our team streams live thermal video to command posts using tools like Eagle Eyes and portable Starlink systems. This enables Search Management Team members to observe terrain, evaluate search sectors, and make live decisions about asset deployment.

In terrain where handheld radios fail and cell service is nonexistent, this aerial intelligence is invaluable. Incident Command doesn’t have to wait for post-mission reports or secondhand relays, they see what our drones see in real time.

Training, Tools, and Team Evolution

Myths and Misunderstandings About Thermal Imaging in SAR

We often hear phrases like “Thermal sees through walls” or “You can see someone breathing from a mile away.” While thermal is powerful, it’s not magic. It can’t see through glass or walls, and its effective range is limited by lens quality, subject contrast, and line of sight.

Our team has learned to manage expectations and educate fellow SAR professionals about how thermal really works. It’s a tool, an incredibly valuable one, but it must be deployed and configured intelligently, with trained operators and realistic performance standards.

Night Operations: A New Frontier for UAS and Thermal SAR

Night missions are among the most dangerous for ground teams, especially in steep or technical terrain. Thermal drones allow us to continue searching when human teams must pause. Our SOPs prioritize safety, and UAS gives us the option to maintain momentum during nighttime operations without risking additional lives.

We’ve conducted night ops in areas such as Hermosa Creek and Junction Creek, using thermal optics to scan open fields, riverbanks, and dense forest edges. The ability to fly legally under Part 107 and agency-specific COAs has been instrumental in enabling this capability. These nighttime efforts are an area where Search and Rescue drones with thermal imaging offer a clear advantage.

The Evolution of LPCSAR’s Drone Team

Our UAS program began with lightweight DJI Mini 3 Pros and has since expanded to include the DJI Matrice 4T. In coordination with the La Plata County Sheriff’s Office, we also have access to advanced platforms like the DJI M30T. We’ve adopted video detection tools such as Eagle Eyes and Loc8 to assist in both live and post-flight analysis. To explore how we configure and deploy these tools in the field, including insights into our live detection workflow, read our article on UAS in Search and Rescue (SAR): LPCSAR’s Detection Tools.

Over time, we’ve implemented structured training pathways (Awareness, Operations, Technician, Specialist), SOPs, and mission-ready protocols. Our team is now frequently asked by other Colorado SAR teams about our workflow, tools, and deployment strategies. This reflects our commitment to becoming a regional resource, not just a county asset.

Collaborating Across Agencies with Aerial Thermal Tools

LPCSAR has worked closely with other counties, law enforcement, and fire teams during mutual aid missions. Whether it’s scanning for fireline hotspots or identifying heat signatures in flood zones, thermal UAS is a shared asset for interagency operations.

We’ve found that sharing live feeds with other teams and agencies builds trust and improves outcomes. These relationships have been reinforced through training, joint debriefs, and operational transparency.

From Detection to Ground Support

Detection Operator Skills: Seeing What Others Miss

Using thermal effectively isn’t just about owning the sensor, it’s about interpreting what it shows. Our Detection Operators train to differentiate human vs animal signatures, detect patterns like footprints or tire tracks, and identify residual heat from campfires or vehicles.

This skillset, constantly developing through practice and flight time, turns raw thermal data into actionable intelligence. We emphasize continuous improvement, peer review, and after-action learning as cornerstones of our training pipeline.

To fully capitalize on thermal and NIR capabilities, teams must also master how to fly their UAS with purpose. We’ve outlined strategic flight patterns that maximize visual coverage and detection probability in our article on UAS Search Patterns for Search and Rescue Missions.

From Thermal Hit to Subject Recovery: Bridging the Gap

A thermal hit doesn’t end the mission, it starts the next phase. Once a possible subject is detected, the team must assess access, safety, and extraction routes. UAS provides a bird’s-eye view for this planning, supporting both ground teams and overhead coordination.

We’ve practiced this workflow extensively: Detection, Verification, Ground Team Dispatch, and Command Support. Each step builds on the previous one, and every piece of data helps close the loop.

Enhancing Ground Teams, Not Replacing Them

One important message we share with all SAR teams: drones don’t replace people, they support them. A thermal drone can clear a ridgeline in minutes, but it can’t carry out a hypothermic subject or deliver critical first aid.

We see our drones as a force multiplier. They help our ground teams focus their energy, reduce exposure time, and increase efficiency.

SOPs, Terrain Challenges, and the Road Ahead

SOPs for Safe and Effective Thermal UAS Use

LPCSAR has developed detailed SOPs for drone deployments, especially thermal. These cover battery management, airspace deconfliction, image review, privacy concerns, and nighttime operation protocols. Risk assessment is baked into every UAS mission we fly, and we actively use the GAR model to ensure safety and mission clarity. You can learn more about how we apply this framework in our piece on GAR Risk Assessment in Search and Rescue.

Our SOPs are designed to be shareable with other SAR teams, and we encourage interested agencies to reach out if they’re building or refining their own.

Terrain Matters: Deploying in La Plata’s Harsh Conditions

From our mountain canyons to aspen groves and mesa-top deserts, terrain challenges every flight. We train for high-elevation operations, side-hill hovering, and limited landing zones. Visual observers and terrain-aware flight paths ensure safety and coverage.

In some cases, we hike drones in, hand-launch, and then fly short, targeted missions. Flexibility and environmental awareness are just as critical as sensor quality.

Looking Ahead: The Future of SAR Optics

Emerging technologies, AI-enhanced image analysis, real time mapping, and dual-payload sensors, will change the face of search and rescue. LPCSAR is already integrating some of these tools and testing how they scale in real-world conditions.

We believe the future of SAR will combine highly trained operators, intelligent software, and rugged aerial platforms. Partnerships between agencies, vendors, and local communities will be vital. Search and Rescue drones with thermal imaging will remain at the core of this transformation.

Additionally, you can support LPCSAR by contributing to our Recon for Rescue initiative, which directly funds advanced tools like thermal-capable drones, UAS training programs, and cutting-edge detection software. Your donation helps us reduce search times, improve field safety, and save lives in the backcountry.We invite you to follow our ongoing missions and behind-the-scenes training on Facebook and Instagram, where we share updates, photos, and ways the community can stay involved. To explore more ways you can connect with or assist our team, including volunteering, sponsoring, or hosting an educational event, visit our Community Outreach page.

Together, we can ensure that no call for help goes unanswered.

By Joshua Duttry
IT Director and UAS Specialist, La Plata County Search and Rescue

When most people think about backcountry Search and Rescue (SAR), they picture helicopters, ground hasty teams, or canine units. What they may not realize is that there’s a rapidly growing tactical advantage taking hold in rugged terrain across Colorado: the SAR Moto Team. At La Plata County Search and Rescue (LPCSAR), based in Durango, Colorado, we’re proud to be leading this evolution, applying decades of SAR experience to modern technology and off-highway vehicle (OHV) platforms including dirt bikes, ATVs, and side-by-sides. With the terrain we operate in, from 6,500-foot mesas to 13,000-foot ridgelines, SAR mobility and mission adaptability are critical.

With this we want to highlight our operational philosophies, real-world successes, and the ways our SAR Moto Team is redefining what’s possible for wilderness rescue. Whether you’re a SAR team leader, a fellow responder, or a supporter of public safety, we invite you to explore how OHV assets are accelerating our response, increasing subject access, and creating new strategies for wilderness missions. To learn how you can help equip our team with critical mobility tools that directly support these capabilities, you can donate here to keep our vehicles and riders mission-ready.

Mobility Across Diverse Terrain

For LPCSAR, our county is a diverse combination of deserts, river valleys, aspen forests, canyons, and alpine passes. Our SAR Moto Team operates across the rugged Four Corners region, from the high desert near the New Mexico border to the alpine trails north of Durango. In this unforgiving terrain, mobility is not a luxury, it’s an operational necessity. Our Moto Team utilizes:

• 2-stroke and 4-stroke dirt bikes for narrow singletrack and fast reconnaissance.
• Electric dirt bikes, nearly silent and ideal for subject detection.
• Side-by-sides (UTVs) capable of transporting gear, personnel, and sometimes even canine handlers.
• ATVs used to tow mobile litters and traverse winter and mud-heavy conditions where other vehicles may struggle.

These platforms allow our teams to extend the reach of ground operations, cover more ground than hiking teams alone, and adapt to changing mission requirements. Whether accessing an alpine meadow six miles in or scouting side drainages along a canyon wall, our SAR Moto Team reduces time-to-subject dramatically. We’ve also used UTVs to transport canine teams deep into remote areas, preserving the dogs’ stamina and enabling a full shift of productive searching without early fatigue.

If you’re curious about how we engage with the public and share our work in the field, visit our Community Outreach page for more stories about how mobility impacts our mission success.

The Right Tool for the Right Job

We don’t deploy dirt bikes simply because they are fast. We use them because in certain conditions, they are the correct tool for the task. Matching equipment to mission profiles is a cornerstone of our strategy. Each deployment is preceded by a situational analysis of terrain, weather, and risk.

Electric dirt bikes are an increasingly important part of our fleet. They’re quiet, have instant torque, and eliminate the loud mechanical roar of a traditional engine, making it easier for operators to hear distant whistles, calls, or movement in the woods. Their lower acoustic profile also allows better radio communication between field teams and Incident Command. This allows them to work exceptionally well with aerial teams too, especially when combined with the technology discussed in our article on UAS Search Patterns for Search and Rescue Missions.

For missions requiring extraction or prolonged operations, side-by-sides or ATVs can tow litters, ferry responders, or haul heavy loads like shelter systems, lighting, and emergency gear. They also serve a vital logistical role, supporting Hasty Teams, UAS teams, and even acting as relay points when terrain prevents direct radio contact.

Real-World SAR Examples

One of the clearest demonstrations of the Moto Team’s effectiveness occurred during an incident response to a subject injured deep within a side canyon of Hermosa Creek. While air support inserted teams by helicopter, our SAR Moto Team navigated several miles of rugged backcountry trails and was the first to make contact with the subject. This ground-based contact stabilized the situation before air assets arrived, proving that speed on two wheels can sometimes rival flight in the right terrain.

In another extended operation, nightfall caught several field teams still deployed. The Moto Team was dispatched to shuttle in water, headlamps, and specialty gear, ensuring that teams could remain on task and stay safe. Because of their compact profile and rapid speed, our Moto units closed the logistical gap between Incident Command (IC) and the field with remarkable efficiency. These resource deliveries were only possible due to consistent community support. You can help ensure we have the gear and infrastructure needed to respond quickly and efficiently by exploring our donation initiative page.

Risk Management on Every Ride

Operating motorized vehicles in wilderness terrain adds risk. We mitigate that risk through deliberate planning, strong training, and the structured use of the GAR (Green/Amber/Red) risk assessment tool. By focusing on pre-mission analysis and real-time conditions, our team avoids unnecessary exposure while maximizing effectiveness.

Every mission involving the SAR Moto Team includes GAR card assessments based on rider experience, terrain type, lighting, weather, and urgency. These are not rubber-stamped approvals. They are real discussions with Search Management Team (SMT) leaders and the assigned field personnel.

Using GAR helps us decide when to deploy Moto assets and when not to. For instance, steep scree fields after a rainstorm may turn a relaxed green-rated trail into a red-risk operation. Our leaders always defer to safety, even if that means taking longer to reach a subject. To learn more about how we use GAR cards in the field, our article on GAR Risk Assessment in Search and Rescue offers an in-depth explanation with examples from recent missions.

Our SAR Moto Team Philosophy

We believe our role as a Moto Team is to serve as a force multiplier for our ground and air resources. That means operating with independence but always in alignment with IC and SMT goals. It also means:

• Training regularly in technical terrain.
• Coordinating closely with other SAR teams.
• Supporting logistical needs like supply runs or subject extraction.
• Understanding subject behavior models and using them to route our patrols.

Although our Moto Team often focuses on being the first into new terrain or making subject contact, all LPCSAR team members are trained in WFA protocols and expected to maintain strong skills in GPS navigation, CalTopo mapping, and radio communication. These are foundational capabilities for everyone on our team, regardless of specialty.

Additionally, you can often meet members of our Moto Team at public events and local safety fairs. Visit our Community Outreach page to learn where we’ll be next and how you can engage with us in person.

Setting Standards for Other Teams

We believe we are Colorado’s first fully dedicated SAR Moto Team, and one of the first nationally to integrate electric motorcycles into active wilderness rescue operations. But we also know that innovation means responsibility. We want to share what we’ve learned, and just as importantly, hear from others who are exploring similar capabilities.

Our team has developed SOPs, rider qualification guides, and incident debrief tools specifically for OHV-based SAR response. However, due to the unique nature of terrain, liability, and agency support, we encourage interested SAR teams to contact us directly. If you’re a SAR Team Leader considering OHVs, visit our contact page or email us directly to start a deeper conversation about lessons learned, equipment selection, and training practices.

As a Search and Rescue team, we recognize that every mission in the backcountry comes with a responsibility to protect the environment and set an example. Our OHV riders strictly adhere to all U.S. Forest Service and local land agency regulations, and we are committed to Leave No Trace principles. Whether responding to a call or training on remote trails, we yield to hikers, slow down for equestrians, and maintain courteous communication with fellow trail users. Mutual respect helps preserve public access and builds trust between our team and the outdoor community we serve.

Building the Future of SAR Mobility

The field of Search and Rescue is evolving. As technology becomes lighter, faster, and quieter, the tactics we use to reach subjects must also evolve. The SAR Moto Team concept is not just about speed; it’s about expanding our operational reach, increasing safety margins, and reducing the time between callout and contact.

At LPCSAR, we believe that dirt bikes, ATVs, and side-by-sides are not niche tools, they are essential components of a modern, mobile, and effective SAR operation. We are proud to be at the forefront of this movement and eager to collaborate with others across the region and nation.

If you’re inspired by what we do and want to make a direct impact, learn how to support our team here. Follow our updates, training efforts, and success stories by joining our Facebook community or subscribing to our Instagram page, where we share mission photos, upcoming events, and more.

La Plata County Search and Rescue (LPCSAR) was recently featured in an Eagle Eyes Interview that highlights our advanced use of Search and Rescue drones. As a growing SAR Organization in the Four Corners, we’ve developed a UAS program focused on safety, efficiency, and real-world impact in backcountry rescue operations.

From supporting avalanche rescues to remote technical operations, our drone workflows leverage tools like Eagle Eyes and CalTopo to increase situational awareness and reduce risk during missions.

Eagle Eyes Search – Inside La Plata County SAR’s Drone Playbook

Smart Tools for Smart Searching

Our UAS Team performs rapid aerial searches using spiral and grid patterns from Initial Planning Points (IPP). We generate orthomosaics to detect subtle terrain clues, monitor hazards remotely, and provide vital reconnaissance for active incidents. More details regarding our UAS search patterns and stratigies a can be found in our UAS Search Patterns for SAR Missions article.

Eagle Eyes software enhances our drone video analysis by flagging detections in real-time or for post-mission review. This enables better decision-making, reduces responder fatigue, and helps prioritize search areas effectively.

Safety, Cost, and Risk Management

Compared to helicopters, SAR UAS carry far less safety risk for operators and come at a fraction of the cost. Drones can safely access hazardous or remote areas where helicopters face operational limits or elevated risks. Our risk assessments, guided by ICS and GAR principles, prioritize drone deployment to protect personnel and resources.

Our team uses SOPs and certified pilots to maintain safe drone operations even under challenging weather and high-altitude conditions, supported by Starlink and radio comms.

Help Us Expand

As a volunteer-run organization, our UAS program depends on donations to fund advanced hardware, training, and mission-critical equipment. Every contribution helps keep our Search and Rescue drones operational and ready.

Visit our UAS Initiative page, Recon for Rescue, to learn more about how you can help make a difference.

Follow Us on Social

Stay connected with LPCSAR via Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes looks, mission updates, and drone operations highlights.

Read the full Eagle Eyes Interview and learn more about our drone program and SAR strategies here:

https://www.eagleeyessearch.com/blog/la-plata-county-sar-drone-playbook

By Joshua Duttry
IT Director and UAS Specialist, La Plata County Search and Rescue

Search Management Mapping is a cornerstone of modern search and rescue (SAR) operations, and at La Plata County Search and Rescue (LPCSAR), we have integrated mapping into every level of our mission planning and field execution. From real-time tracking of resources to terrain-informed assignment design, we rely heavily on the power of digital mapping, specifically CalTopo with SARTopo features, to increase efficiency, enhance safety, and improve outcomes for lost or injured individuals in the backcountry.

Our team’s use of Search Management Mapping builds on foundational practices shared by Colorado Search and Rescue (CSAR) and is a strong example of how Search and Rescue teams in Colorado are standardizing tools and strategies to improve coordination and outcomes. In this article, we share how we leverage this toolset to support our Incident Command structure, deploy field teams, integrate drone data, and maintain situational awareness across complex multi-day missions. We also invite SAR leaders from other organizations to reach out if they’d like to collaborate or learn more about our approach.

The Role of Mapping in ICS-Based SAR Operations

Coordinating Across the Command Structure

Effective search management starts with consistent coordination between ICS sections. The Operations Section uses CalTopo for real-time assignment deployment and resource visualization. Planning maintains a synchronized master map that reflects updates and team positions. Air Operations incorporates airspace overlays for both manned and unmanned flight, ensuring safe deconfliction. Safety Officers rely on terrain tools to identify hazards and communicate them clearly through mapping annotations.

By linking these sections through a shared digital map, we reduce latency in decision-making and ensure everyone, from field teams to IC, is operating from a single source of truth.

CalTopo as the Central Mapping Platform

CalTopo has become our foundational mapping tool. It supports cloud-based collaboration, enabling both command and field teams to remain synchronized. SAR-specific features such as operational periods, buffer tools, and assignment segmentation allow for precision planning. We also utilize CalTopo’s custom symbols to mark clues, team locations, hazards, and operational zones.

Even in areas without cell coverage, field members can use offline-synced maps to stay aligned with IC direction. When connectivity returns, their tracks and annotations upload automatically, contributing to the operational picture.

Safety is woven into every decision we make during a mission, from assignment design to team deployment. CalTopo supports this by enabling SMT to visualize terrain hazards, weather impacts, and exposure zones in real time. Combined with structured risk analysis tools, this allows for more informed and defensible decision-making at every level of ICS. To learn how we integrate structured risk evaluations into our SAR operations, explore our approach to GAR Risk Assessment in Search and Rescue.

Live Resource Tracking and Operational Awareness

Tracking our resources in real time is essential. From volunteers en route to base, to UAS flights in progress, to technical teams on rope systems, each resource is timestamped and visually tracked within CalTopo. These updates feed into situational reports that help SMT prioritize next steps, detect gaps in coverage, and quickly respond to emerging situations.

Search Assignments and Terrain Intelligence

Search Assignment Design with SARTopo

Designing meaningful search areas requires both science and intuition. We use Lost Person Behavior (LPB) data extensively to prioritize locations and predict movement patterns. SARTopo helps us translate LPB insights into actionable search zones. For example, if a subject is a known trail-runner with disorientation likely, we may prioritize buffer zones near junctions and slope breaks within a certain radius.

Assignment polygons are drawn with both terrain and behavioral modeling in mind. Each area is vetted for:

– Accessibility
– Risk factors
– Visibility
– Probability of detection

Assignments are ranked and adjusted in real time as conditions or clues change.

Using Mapping to Support Field Safety

Terrain-informed mapping supports safety and planning. Using CalTopo’s slope angle shading and shaded relief tools, we identify avalanche-prone areas, steep terrain, and impassable obstacles. This ensures that teams are not assigned to high-risk areas without proper resources or briefings. We also use custom layers to mark water crossings, hazards like downed timber, and potential LZs.

Before deploying teams, SMT includes terrain briefings and digital references. This empowers team leads to make informed decisions in the field, even under pressure.

Linking to Historical Missions and Templates

Historical mission data stored in CalTopo allows us to revisit similar incidents for strategic insights. We analyze past track coverage, clue discovery points, and missed areas. In locations with recurring incidents such as high-traffic trailheads, we maintain templates that expedite response while still allowing customization.

These historical insights also inform how we plan aerial coverage. When preparing for UAS-assisted searches, we often revisit previous missions in similar terrain to determine which search patterns were most effective. This data-driven approach ensures our drone flights maximize coverage and detection efficiency. For a detailed look at how we design and execute these flight paths, see our article on UAS Search Patterns for Search and Rescue Missions.

UAS Integration and Orthomosaic Mapping

Incorporating Real-Time Aerial Data

The LPCSAR UAS team enhances search management with up-to-date orthomosaic imagery. This is particularly valuable when the landscape has changed, such as after snowstorms, avalanches, or flooding. These aerial products give IC and field teams current conditions, sometimes within hours of capture.

We load the orthomosaics into CalTopo as custom layers, aligning them with existing assignments and clues. These images are essential for visual comparison with satellite data or when field teams are searching debris fields or avalanche runouts.

Syncing Drone Operations to CalTopo

UAS flights are coordinated in CalTopo alongside other assets. Operators follow airspace restrictions and flight plans marked within the same system used by ground teams. This reduces communication burden and allows real-time visual synchronization of detection patterns.

Tools like Eagle Eyes enable immediate visual cue detection. When potential clues are flagged, the coordinates are instantly marked in CalTopo and pushed to IC.

Our integration of UAS into SAR operations extends well beyond flight planning. From live video feeds to post-flight orthomosaic analysis, our detection workflow is built around speed, precision, and actionable intelligence. We’ve refined these tools to support fast clue identification and seamless coordination with field teams. To learn more about the platforms, software, and strategies we use, visit our article on UAS in Search and Rescue (SAR): LPCSAR’s Detection Tools.

Coordinated Air-Ground Response

When a UAS team identifies a point of interest, it’s immediately added to the map. That data, including imagery and coordinates, is then sent directly to the appropriate field team’s device. This reduces response time and increases the likelihood of finding the subject or confirming a clue quickly.

Search Planning Tools and ICS Documentation

Exporting ICS Forms from SARTopo

CalTopo allows us to quickly develop and export operational forms including ICS-104, populated with coordinates, area descriptions, and symbology. These forms are printed or shared digitally during briefings, reducing errors and briefing time. We also export customized maps with pre-annotated clues, objectives, and notes.

Our mapping-based documentation aligns with FEMA ICS expectations and is retained for after-action reports and training.

Timeline Tracking and Mission Review

Every team track uploaded to the map is time-stamped and linked to its assignment. This enables IC to verify segment coverage, review movement patterns, and identify missed areas. After-action debriefs often include a screen review of CalTopo tracks, layered with time-based filters for better understanding of search flow.

Maintaining Documentation for Transparency

Mapping history also plays a key role in accountability and interagency transparency. With proper privacy measures in place, we use map exports to educate partner organizations, family liaisons, and the public. This improves trust and can foster inter-agency collaboration for future events.

Mapping Standards, Training, and Inter-Team Collaboration

Developing SOPs for Mapping and Nomenclature

We’ve developed internal SOPs that cover everything from assignment ID formats to team color codes. By standardizing symbology, track styles, and naming conventions, we maintain map legibility throughout multi-day operations or during mutual aid deployments.

These SOPs are taught in our SMT development program and regularly refined during tabletop drills.

Internal Training for Field and Command Staff

Training is core to our success. All SMT members receive CalTopo and Search Management Mapping instruction, including assignment creation, map syncing, and field tracking. Field teams are trained to use their mobile apps for navigation, updates, and track recording.

We also include mapping elements in Visual Observer and UAS training to support live detection and post-processing.

For SAR teams looking to strengthen their Search Management Mapping practices, CalTopo offers a dedicated online knowledge base and SAR-focused training course. These materials cover SARTopo features such as assignment creation, operational map layering, and ICS documentation workflows. We highly recommend that SAR personnel, from field members to Planning Section staff, review this content to better understand how to apply the platform effectively within ICS. As more Colorado and national SAR teams adopt CalTopo, a shared understanding of its capabilities ensures smoother inter-agency coordination, faster deployment, and safer missions.

Supporting Other SAR Teams

As our Search Management Mapping capabilities have matured, we’ve been asked to assist other SAR teams with map-based planning, field tracking, and UAS integration. We’ve supported mutual aid missions and hosted mapping workshops that focus on CalTopo, SARTopo features, and LPB-based search strategies.

To learn more or request a collaboration, please contact LPCSAR SMT leadership.

Inter-Agency Mapping with CalTopo

LPCSAR strongly supports the CSAR initiative encouraging all SAR teams in Colorado to adopt CalTopo as a common mapping platform. By aligning on this standard, agencies can:

– Rapidly share map data during mutual aid
– Maintain consistent symbology and SOPs
– Provide faster onboarding for support teams
– Reduce confusion during large-scale or multi-team incidents

The use of CalTopo across SAR agencies creates a shared visual language. This inter-agency compatibility has improved efficiency, safety, and collaboration, particularly when multiple teams operate in unfamiliar terrain. We continue to promote this standardization in our region and actively contribute to building best practices statewide.

Conclusion: Why Search Management Mapping Matters

At LPCSAR, Search Management Mapping has transformed how we plan, respond, and learn. By integrating behavioral data, real-time resource tracking, modern aerial tools, and ICS documentation, we’ve built a system that improves our efficiency and helps us save lives. Terrain-informed planning, LPB models, and consistent digital tools make every mission more effective.

We share these practices not to prescribe a one-size-fits-all model, but to invite other SAR teams to consider new possibilities. Our team is ready to connect, collaborate, and grow alongside others committed to evolving the field of search and rescue.

To connect with our SMT or discuss mapping practices further, reach out to via email to LPCSAR.

See more of what we do through our Community Outreach page, where we share educational events, community partnerships, and ways to get involved. Stay connected through our Facebook and Instagram pages for real-time mission insights, training highlights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the work our volunteers do year-round. And if you believe in supporting our efforts across La Plata County and beyond, please visit our Fundraising Initiatives to learn how you can help us equip our teams, advance our technology, and continue evolving our Search Management capabilities. Together, we can strengthen the future of search and rescue!

By Joshua Duttry
IT Director and UAS Specialist, La Plata County Search and Rescue

Search and Rescue (SAR) operations have entered a new era with the implementation of advanced drone tactics and real-time image analysis software. At La Plata County Search and Rescue (LPCSAR), based in Durango, Colorado, our UAS team integrates defined search patterns with advanced detection software. As a result, we’ve reshaped how missions are planned, executed, and reviewed. This article explores our strategies and lessons learned. It also highlights how SAR teams can apply these principles to improve operational effectiveness.

As UAS integration into SAR becomes more common across Colorado and the nation, we’ve seen increasing interest from SAR teams who want to understand how to fly productively, search effectively, and use available technology in the field. Our goal is to deliver insight into real-world SAR drone applications, while remaining sensitive to operational security and incident privacy. If you’re part of a SAR team and want to discuss these practices further, we encourage you to reach out directly.

Integrating Drones into Search Management

Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) play a critical role in scene awareness, terrain analysis, and missing subject detection. At LPCSAR, UAS assignments are tightly coordinated with our Search Management Team (SMT), which defines assignment boundaries, sets Probability of Detection (POD) expectations, and incorporates real-time drone imagery into overall mission planning.

We do not fly randomly. Every flight is an intentional response to an assignment, shaped by environmental variables, POD targets, subject behavior profiles, and known clues. Our UAS search strategies are briefed in detail between SMT and the drone team before liftoff.

Using POD-Driven Flight Planning

The desired POD for an area drives nearly every decision in a UAS search. This includes the flight pattern, camera angle, speed, altitude, and even time of day. A dense, forested canyon with a 70% POD requirement demands specific adjustments. For example, we may fly slower and use a -70° gimbal tilt. We also apply high-overlap paths at 50–75 feet AGL. In contrast, a sparsely treed ridgeline at 40% POD might allow for a faster grid scan with fewer overlapping passes.

With each search assignment, SMT provides the drone team with:
– A segment polygon in SARTopo
– Assigned POD level
– Any subject behavior or known clue data
– Hazards such as canyon walls, tree heights, or signal limitations

This strategic planning ensures that the UAS effort is optimized for detection and aligned with the broader mission.

UAS Search Pattern Types for SAR

Different terrain and mission needs require different UAS flight strategies. We regularly use the following UAS search patterns, each chosen based on the assignment’s terrain, POD goal, and operational phase:

1. Grid Pattern

– Flies back and forth in parallel lines (e.g., east-west, then north-south)
– Best when assignment boundaries are well-defined
– Easy to set up but doesn’t naturally prioritize high-probability zones
– Works well with automated waypoint missions

2. Spiral Pattern

– Flies in a widening circle from a high-priority point such as the IPP (Initial Planning Point)
– Ideal for initial reflex flights or scene awareness
– Doesn’t require fixed boundaries
– Difficult to fly smoothly without practice

3. Square Spiral

– Similar to a circular spiral, but with square 90° turns
– Easier for pilots to perform accurately
– Good for manual reflex tasking from an IPP or last known point
– Less pilot strain than spiral pattern

4. Square Alternating Spiral

– Same as the square spiral, but alternates the spiral direction each revolution
– Provides differing camera angles and improved visual penetration under tree cover
– Requires more pilot skill but offers improved coverage in shaded or obstructed terrain

Each of these patterns has its strengths and is best suited for specific terrain types, mission phases, and POD goals. However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. These patterns should be selected based on terrain, POD goals, time constraints, and mission complexity. The ones we’ve highlighted are just a few of the many available. They are among those that LPCSAR has found most effective in our local open ridgelines, forested canyons, and high-altitude zones, though other teams may prefer different strategies based on their unique environments.

Reflex Flights and Early Mission Actions

If SMT or IC has not yet issued a detailed assignment, our UAS team can begin reflex tasks to accelerate mission progress. Our SOP defines several actions:
– Start a square spiral flight from the IPP or known terrain hazard.
– Capture terrain context, focusing on fall lines, ridgelines, or hazard zones.
– Fly at orthomosaic-friendly altitudes, typically 75–125 feet AGL, using a 2-second auto shutter interval.
– Collect overlapping imagery to enable software analysis and 3D terrain modeling.
– Before flying, verify if field charging is available, then manage battery use to ensure you’re ready when assignments begin.

We log reflex flights, photo markers, and tracks so SMT can ingest them and maintain continuity. Reflex tasks aren’t wasted effort, they build terrain understanding, enable fast orthomosaic mapping, and support early detection workflows.

Applying Detection Software in the Field

One of the tools we use during UAS missions is Eagle Eyes, which offers both live and post-flight automated object detection. Features include:
– Real-time alerting of potential detections
– Automatic marking of imagery for operator review
– Export of coordinates into SARTopo
– Support for RGB and thermal imagery analysis

In many missions, we fly with a dedicated detection operator, or Analyst, monitoring software feeds. Meanwhile, the pilot remains focused on flight safety and pattern execution. This separation improves detection rates and reduces cognitive overload. These systems and detection software convert raw aerial imagery into actionable intelligence.

Real-Time Video Sharing for SAR Missions

We’ve developed a wireless workflow to allow us to share live feeds from UAS cameras with the SMT, IC, and even EOC in real-time. Using wireless transmitters and Starlink-supported video relays, our SMT can:
– Monitor search progress
– Review detection alerts instantly
– Adjust assignments dynamically based on terrain visibility or findings

This allows us to stream live flight and detection data back to our EOC miles away, providing a new perspective in public safety from afar.

We also integrate detection tools into our orthomosaic workflows, allowing multiple software platforms to evaluate high-overlap imagery after the flight. These tools enhance detections during snow searches, high angle incidents, or low-contrast terrain environments.

Orthomosaic Mapping and Scene Awareness

Orthomosaics generated onsite from UAS flights provide current-condition map layers that vastly outperform outdated satellite basemaps. With tools like WebODM and SARTopo, we:
– Upload GeoTIFF layers for team-wide access
– Overlay current conditions like snow cover, treefall, burn areas, or new trails
– Create 3D terrain perspectives for extraction planning and hazard recognition

Whether we’re preparing for a technical rope rescue or mapping terrain after a fire, orthomosaics enhance scene awareness and mission safety.

Best Practices for Coordinated UAS Teams

SAR missions demand clear roles and strong communication between UAS team members. Our approach includes:
– Defined pilot/operator roles
– Common communication protocols
– Track uploads to SMT in near real-time
– Post flight debriefs and shared lessons learned

We stress practice and repetition. Flight patterns, camera angles, and software operations are all perishable skills. Environmental conditions, terrain challenges, and airspace constraints vary wildly across our AO, there’s no “one right way.” Success comes from training, documentation, and ongoing collaboration with SMT.

Final Thoughts on Drone Use in SAR

LPCSAR’s experience with UAS search patterns for search and rescue has shown us that successful integration of drones into SAR is about much more than flying. It’s about planning, analyzing, adjusting, and working as part of a larger mission.

We’ve received inquiries from teams starting their drone programs to those looking to optimize detection software and learn more regarding search patterns. This interest shows a growing need for shared knowledge in the SAR drone community. If you’re a SAR team member, leader, or planner, we’d love to connect and exchange ideas.

Supporting SAR

Interested in supporting our SAR team here in Durango or learning more about how we operate in our backcountry? LPCSAR is actively fundraising to expand our drone capabilities and continue advancing our detection technology toolkit. Additionally, you can stay connected via our Instagram or Facebook. Your support helps bring subjects home faster and improves the safety of our volunteers.