Flathead County Search and Rescue  (FCSAR) started in 1947 with a general call for volunteers to assist with a search for a lost boy.  The organization was started by then-Sheriff Dick Walsh.  After the boy was found, Dick Walsh asked those who helped to leave their phone number in case they were needed again and they were.

From that informal beginning, FCSAR was born.  The organization fell by the wayside for a few years, but in 1950 it was revived, incorporated, and has been going strong ever since.

Initially, FCSAR started out in a private home with a telephone and a base radio.  Through the years the operating costs have been covered by a small mill levy, donations, memorials, and fundraisers.  The organization has grown into a highly trained team covering everything from water rescues, technical rock rescue, county disaster response, evacuation, and emergency medical assistance.

All members of FCSAR are at least CPR/First Aid certified, but many have higher levels of training such as EMR, EMT, and even Paramedic. In addition to providing initial medical care on search & rescue missions, FCSAR provides medical assistance for various community functions.

FCSAR is responsible for its own section of the county, but Flathead and North Valley Rescue train and respond together whenever the need arises.  A good number of responders are members of both agencies.

FCSAR's coverage area is primarily the southwest side of Flathead County and is comprised of 1,728 square miles, 225 miles of creeks and rivers, as well as 70 lakes.

GENERAL MEETING - OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - 1ST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH AT 7PM

GENERAL TRAINING 2ND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6PM

FLATHEAD COUNTY SEARCH & RESCUE​