Our Mission
“These things we do so that others may live.”
Cowlitz County Search and Rescue (CCSAR) works in partnership with the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) and the citizens of its communities and the state to provide assistance to persons in distress and in urgent situations. We search for people in trouble in a wide variety of terrains from mountainous areas, to river banks, to urban locales. We search in the heat of summer and on snowy winter nights. We educate children, hikers and backcountry enthusiasts in safe activities, so they will avoid danger that result in the need for rescue.
This guiding principle is more than a motto — it is the heart of everything we do. Our mission is not just about rescue — it’s about readiness, resilience, and responsibility. We stand ready 24/7 to serve the people of Cowlitz County and beyond, because every life matters.
Training & Events
Our training and event schedule will be posted here soon. Stay tuned!
Join Cowlitz County Search & Rescue
Are you ready to make a difference in your community? Join our team of dedicated volunteers who serve Cowlitz County through search and rescue operations, training, and public safety support.
Who Can Join
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Live in or near Cowlitz County
- Willing to train regularly and respond to missions
- Background check and application required
What We Offer
- Extensive training in search techniques, navigation, and emergency response
- Opportunities to serve your community and save lives
- A supportive team environment and lifelong skills
How to Apply
To begin the process, please email us with your interest and we’ll send you the application packet and next steps.
Contact Us
For all emergencies: Dial 9-1-1
Cowlitz County Search & Rescue is an emergency resource requested by the Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office in connection to open and official investigations. For any official need, please contact the Sheriff's Office directly at 1-800-201-3092 or 9-1-1.
For all other inquiries, you may call, email, or mail correspondence to the following:
Cowlitz County Search & RescueP.O. Box 474
1800 Western Ave
Kelso, WA 98626
(360) 577-3130
Info@CowlitzSAR.org