Introduction

JOSAR volunteers provide assistance to JTNP staff with Search and Rescue incidents within the park. JTNP averages 6 - 8 rescues and 6 - 8 searches a year. JOSAR has three different specialties for volunteers: Search, Technical Rope Rescue, and Support. Volunteers are invited to participate in either or all specialties.

Search volunteers are utilized to look for missing persons in the park. The park is ~ 795,000 acres in size and contains rugged mountainous terrain that is ideal for getting lost. Search volunteers are trained in tracking, a variety of search tactics, survival, wilderness travel skills, map and compass, land navigation, GPS and more.

Technical volunteers are utilized to help rescue stranded and injured hikers and rock climbers. The park is one of the top rock climbing destinations in the country. Technical volunteers are trained in rope rescue techniques, including raising and lowering systems, rescue and climber belays, rappelling, rock climbing, and extreme extrication.

Support volunteers provide assistance during SAR incidents in the park. Support members may also set up and staff command posts, drive government vehicles, transport equipment or team members, assist with communications, and team administrative needs.

Requirements | Training Requirements | Time Commitment | Fitness Level | Other SAR Team Experience
Team Communication & Call-outs | Minimum Equipment Requirements | New Member Training Calendar