Community Call Center
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 1885 Durango, CO 81302
Community Call Center
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 1885 Durango, CO 81302
La Plata County is home to rugged mountain terrain, remote wilderness areas, and unpredictable weather conditions that challenge even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Our mission is to provide professional, unpaid search and rescue services that ensure the safety of residents and visitors exploring these unforgiving landscapes.
Founded in 1981, La Plata County Search and Rescue (LPCSAR) operates under the authority of the La Plata County Sheriff’s Department. Our dedicated team of volunteers responds to emergency situations across the region, assisting lost hikers, stranded climbers, injured snowmobilers, and anyone else in distress.
Each year, we respond to over 60 emergency calls in Durango, CO, and throughout La Plata County. These missions require advanced training, specialized equipment, and strong community support to ensure successful rescues.
Outdoor recreation in Southwestern Colorado has grown significantly in recent years. With an increasing number of adventurers visiting the backcountry, the demand for search and rescue operations continues to rise. Our team remains ready to respond 24/7, no matter the season, weather, or terrain.
Swiftwater Rescues: Rushing rivers and high-altitude lakes pose significant dangers, especially in spring and summer when snowmelt causes sudden surges.
Avalanche Response: La Plata County’s backcountry is popular among skiers and snowboarders, but deep snowpack and unpredictable weather create hazardous conditions.
High-Altitude Medical Emergencies: Many visitors underestimate the effects of altitude, leading to medical distress that requires immediate intervention.
Lost or Overdue Hikers: Inexperienced hikers and extreme weather conditions often contribute to missing persons cases in remote wilderness areas.
Every successful rescue requires teamwork, strategy, and rapid decision-making. Our volunteers train year-round to refine their skills, ensuring we are ready for any situation.
In our early years, LPCSAR conducted between 15 to 30 missions annually, each requiring around 100 volunteer hours. Back then, air support was needed in almost half of all cases, reflecting the difficulty of reaching remote areas. Over time, the number of missions has increased due to population growth and more people seeking outdoor adventures.
Today, LPCSAR responds to an average of 60 missions per year, covering a range of emergencies. Our specialized teams include:
Mountain and Technical Rescue – Rope rigging and high-angle extractions for climbers and backcountry travelers.
Motorized Rescue Units – SAR members on motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and 4×4 vehicles provide rapid access to remote areas.
Canine Search Teams – Trained dogs assist in locating missing persons, especially in wilderness and avalanche scenarios.
Swiftwater and Ice Rescue – Experts in river rescues and frozen-water emergencies.
UAS (Drone) Operations – High-tech aerial search support enhances visibility in difficult terrain.
LPCSAR also collaborates with neighboring search and rescue teams and local agencies, ensuring coordinated responses across county lines.
Unlike many emergency response organizations, LPCSAR is entirely volunteer-based. While we receive some funding from the state’s Search and Rescue Fund, additional financial support is essential to cover:
Every dollar contributed directly enhances our ability to save lives in La Plata County.
LPCSAR encourages all outdoor enthusiasts to prioritize safety. While we are always ready to respond, preparation can prevent many emergencies.
By following these safety guidelines, you can reduce risks and help ensure a safer outdoor experience in La Plata County.
Learn More About Backcountry Safety – Know Before You Go
LPCSAR thrives because of dedicated volunteers who bring skills, passion, and teamwork to every mission. We are always looking for new members who are eager to train and contribute.
Commitment to Training – Expect regular sessions in search techniques, survival skills, and emergency medical response.
Physical Endurance – Missions often involve hiking through rough terrain, carrying gear, and operating in extreme weather.
Teamwork & Communication – Rescues require coordination, trust, and clear communication under pressure.
Availability for Missions – SAR calls are unpredictable, and volunteers must be ready to respond at any time.
No previous rescue experience? That’s okay! We provide training for all new team members, ensuring they gain the skills needed to participate safely and effectively.
Want to stay informed about our latest missions, training exercises, and safety tips? Follow us on social media and help spread awareness about search and rescue efforts in Durango, CO, and beyond.
Together, we can make a difference in ensuring safe outdoor adventures for everyone in La Plata County.