BUTTE, MT - Each year in Montana, 9 people in 100,000 go missing—one of the highest percentages of all states in the U.S. with a similar-sized population.

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Though most of these cases are solved and closed relatively quickly, over 100 cases still remain open.

When someone goes missing in Montana, a network of dedicated search and rescue (SAR) teams mobilize to bring them home. But how exactly do these operations work?

With the state's vast wilderness, unpredictable weather, and mountainous landscapes, search and rescue missions can be challenging, complex, and downright dangerous.

Search and Rescue: Who's Involved?

What people love most about Montana is also what makes it unique: its vast, untamed wilderness spans millions upon millions of acres, presenting a host of treacherous hurdles for search and rescue teams.

SAR operations here in the Treasure State are primarily conducted by a combination of county sheriffs, trained volunteers, and specialized teams.

- County Sheriff's Role: By law, county sheriffs are responsible for all search and rescue efforts within their jurisdictions. When someone is reported missing, the sheriff’s office becomes the command center, coordinating resources and deciding on the best approach.

- Volunteer Teams: Montana is home to numerous SAR volunteer units, like Flathead Search and Rescue or Gallatin County Search and Rescue. These dedicated individuals often have specialized training in wilderness navigation, rope rescue, and emergency medical response.

- Specialized Support: For cases requiring additional expertise, support comes from organizations like the Civil Air Patrol, canine units, or even the National Guard. Helicopters, drones, and specialized search dogs often play crucial roles in locating missing persons, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

How Do Search Operations Work?

Once a missing persons report is received, the clock starts ticking. Even just after a few days, chances of survival for the missing person become negligible.

Here’s how a typical operation unfolds:

1. Initial Assessment: The first step involves gathering as much information as possible. Where was the person last seen? What were they wearing? Do they have any known medical conditions? These details help SAR teams determine the best starting point.

2. Risk Evaluation and Planning: Search managers assess the risks, such as inclement weather, potential for hypothermia, or dangerous terrain. They then create a detailed search plan, considering factors like how long the person has been missing and what survival resources they may have.

3. Search Techniques: SAR teams use grid searches for contained areas, aerial searches for large and difficult terrains, and tracking to follow subtle clues like footprints or broken branches.

Challenges Faced During Montana SAR Missions

Terrain and Wilderness: Our state’s geography includes everything from dense forests to steep mountains and vast plains. Navigating these environments can be dangerous for both the missing person and the SAR teams.

Weather: The weather in Montana is well-known for its unpredictability. A sunny afternoon can quickly turn into a blizzard, especially in the later months, complicating search efforts and putting rescuers at risk.

Communication: Cell reception is often spotty or nonexistent in the backcountry, making coordination challenging. SAR teams rely on radios, satellite phones, and sometimes even messengers on foot to stay connected.

How Long Does a SAR Mission Last?

The duration of a search and rescue mission varies. In ideal circumstances, a person might be found within hours, but more complicated searches can last days or even weeks. Many SAR volunteers in Montana are prepared for extended missions, carrying enough supplies to stay in the field for multiple days if needed. The search continues as long as there’s a reasonable chance of finding the person alive.

What Can You Do to Help?

Montana’s SAR teams are predominantly composed of volunteers, and their efforts are often supported by donations. If you’re interested in contributing, many SAR organizations accept financial donations to help fund equipment and training. If you’re an avid outdoors person, you could even consider joining a local SAR unit. Training is often available, and volunteers are always in demand.

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