State Search and Rescue Program

Oregon is a state in which residents and visitors from around the world enjoy a wide variety of outdoor recreation. Camping, hiking, swimming and skiing are just a few of the activities Oregon is known for. However, these activities may also result in the need to find people who become lost or injured.

Oregon Search and Rescue (SAR) covers a broad spectrum that includes lost hikers to injured skiers or potential drownings, and much more. Its main purpose is to promote and assist SAR capabilities and resources in the State of Oregon with the underlying principle of saving lives. To serve this purpose, the state liaisons with the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association Search and Rescue Advisory Council (SARAC), who represent their 36 County SAR Coordinators.

Some search and rescue missions can be avoided by being prepared. Know where you're going, tell others where you are going and when you will return, and bring extra supplies.

The State of Oregon has a Search and Rescue Program Coordinator, who is based out of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, and whose responsibilities include:

Coordinate activities of state and federal agencies involved in search and rescue
Establish liaison with the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, and other public and private organizations and agencies involved in search and rescue
Provide on-scene search and rescue coordination when requested by an authorized person
Coordinate and process requests for the use of volunteers and equipment
Assist in developing training and outdoor education programs
Gather statistics in search and rescue operations
Gather and disseminate resource information of personnel, equipment and materials available for search and rescue

Established under Oregon Laws 2021, Chapter 458 (House Bill 2593), the ORSAR program is designed to address the growing need for resources and funding for SAR operations, which exceed 1,000 missions annually across Oregon’s 36 counties. With over 1,700 dedicated volunteers, SAR operations are critical to maintaining Oregon's reputation as a safe and accessible outdoor recreation destination.

The ORSAR card agreement, signed on July 1, 2022, provides supplemental funding for SAR operations through card purchases. Cards are available in individual and family options, with one-year or five-year denominations. Revenue from card sales is allocated to support SAR missions, equipment, and training, addressing the increasing financial demands of these essential services.

For more information about Oregon’s Search and Rescue Program, contact:

Scott Lucas
State Search and Rescue Coordinator
971-283-6135
scott.lucas@oem.oregon.gov

State Search and Rescue Program

Program Objectives

Outdoor Recreation Seach and Rescue (ORSAR) Card Program

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