Broadwater County Search and Rescue - “So Others May Live”
Author: Cindy Christopherson, Search and Rescue
Cindy Christopherson
Search and Rescue
2025 was a busy one for the Broadwater County Search and Rescue (BCSAR). BCSAR is staffed by numerous volunteers who have skills with ice rescues, water rescues, locating people via information from 911, mountain searches, being able to assist with 1st Aid needs, and administrative needs. Each volunteer receives training with boats, ice rescue, ATV/UTVs, map location, bringing people out that need medical attention, and working as a group for whatever a situation requires. Members also maintain equipment, including vehicles, 4x4s, snowmobiles, side-by-sides, boats, ice suits and this year replaced decking on trailers used to haul equipment.
This past year, the BCSAR responded to 15 calls, which included incidents on Canyon Ferry Reservoir, the Missouri River, and the Elkhorn Mountains. These incidents included lost hunters, lost bicyclists, the location of individuals, and assistance to recreationists throughout the county. They also provided support for fishing tournaments and poker runs. Volunteers also assisted in Cascade and Gallatin County with the location and recovery of individuals.
Numerous donations were received that helped in acquiring equipment and supplies. Graymont provided funding to purchase a Side-by-Side and then, in 2025, to outfit it with accessories. The Montana Walleyes Unlimited-Gallatin Chapter made a donation to purchase new and improved ice suits. Grants were received to purchase updated radios and to outfit a van for use in communications. Rocky Mountain Supply and Broadwater Clinic-Billings provided raffle prizes for our fall raffle during Fall Fest. Also, thank you to everyone who purchased raffle tickets. Thanks to all of these donations and many more from the VFW, Chamber of Commerce, and all others.
BCSAR’s future can only continue with the inclusion of new volunteers and through continued training and the purchase of specialized equipment. Volunteers do not have to be experts in all areas. We welcome people with varying interests, skills, and backgrounds. Please contact Eric Crusch, President, at 406-524-0275 or obtain a volunteer application at the Sheriff’s Office.
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PhotoCredit: Broadwater County Search and Rescue
Image 1 Caption: Use the logo.
Image 2 Caption: BSAR Team
Obtained from the Sheriff's Office Website
