ABOUT EDSAR
UNITED BY PURPOSE. DRIVEN BY PASSION.
A LONG HISTORY OF SERVICE
El Dorado Search and Rescue (EDSAR) is a dedicated volunteer organization with a long history of innumerable missions, often involving challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions. With a mission to save lives, EDSAR aims to provide the public the most effective and professional personnel and resources response to searches, rescues, and support during disaster emergencies.
SHERIFF'S OFFICE
The El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office (EDSO) is responsible for search and rescue response for El Dorado County's 1,708 square miles. However, it's the teamwork and participation of the sworn Disaster Service Worker volunteers and Deputies and the seamless integration of resources and expertise that create a highly trained, coordinated, and respected Search and Rescue Unit.
TWO TEAMS, ONE HEART
Search and Rescue in El Dorado County is operationally divided into West Slope and South Lake Tahoe Divisions. The West Slope Team covers areas east of the Sacramento County Line to Strawberry and north of the Amador County Line to the Placer County line border encompassing 1,400 square miles. The Tahoe office serves the East Slope from Strawberry East to the Nevada state line covering approximately 300 square miles of extreme terrain. Both teams support missions that require additional personnel due to shared training and specialization.
MISSION READY
The heart of EDSAR lies in its diverse pool of volunteers who dedicate countless hours, sacrificing personal time to undergo rigorous training to acquire and hone the necessary skills and knowledge to handle challenging situations. All volunteer personnel are required to pass a variety of tests to become a team member, including staying current in First Aid, CPR, Map and Compass Reading, and becoming proficient in specialized units to respond effectively to a wide range of emergencies, including:
Search and Rescue Operations: Locating and rescuing lost or injured individuals, like hikers and skiers in remote, backcountry areas.
Disaster Response: Assisting in disaster relief efforts, such as wildfires and floods.
Technical Rescue: Performing complex rescue operations, like swift water rescues, rock climbing accidents, and plane crashes.
SUPPORT EDSAR
Donations, fundraisers, and volunteer efforts contribute to EDSAR's ability to provide training, maintain equipment, and respond to emergencies.
Support El Dorado Search and Rescue Council, EDSAR's 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and help ensure the safety of those who live, work, and play in El Dorado County. Volunteer and provide an invaluable service to the community.