North Valley Search and Rescue, based in Columbia Falls, is a dedicated volunteer organization that trains regularly to respond to emergencies across a vast and challenging terrain of over 2,400 square miles, including mountains, rivers, and reservoirs. Founded in the early 1970s following a tragic drowning incident, the group has grown to about 50 members ranging from their 20s to late 70s. Volunteers like Deb Sullivan, an experienced EMT and physical therapist, lead hands-on training sessions focusing on critical skills such as rope rescues and swiftwater recovery, preparing teams to handle situations with limited personnel and no air support.
The organization responds to roughly 24 missions annually, with the busiest period during the summer tourist season. Equipped with specialized gear including snowmobiles, jet boats, and rope rescue equipment, North Valley Search and Rescue dedicates thousands of hours each year to both missions and training. Despite changes in technology and the nature of calls, the group remains committed to providing timely assistance, encouraging people to call for help without hesitation, ensuring safety across the region’s rugged wilderness.
