Sheriff's Office

Motor Division

The Motor Division deploys specialized vehicles and vessels to access terrain and waterways unreachable on foot. This includes ATVs, UTVs, snowmobiles, snowcats, 4x4 vehicles, and fully outfitted search and rescue boats. On land, specialized vehicles support operations in snow‑covered mountains, rugged backcountry, and the vast expanses of the northern desert. On water, the Marine Unit responds to incidents on Pyramid Lake, Lake Tahoe, and other waterways requiring sturdy, well‑equipped boats and trained crews. These vehicles and vessels allow teams to cover greater distances, transport more equipment, and reach subjects faster than foot teams alone. Many missions involve locating overdue snowmobilers, hunters, OHV riders, and boaters in remote areas.

Volunteer Service

WCSAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All members undergo a Sheriff’s Office background check and commit to weekly training sessions as well as weekend exercises. The organization has been nationally recognized for its volunteer training standards and operational readiness.

Community Support

Washoe County Search and Rescue volunteers provide lifesaving services at no cost to those we assist and receive no direct tax funding for our operations. Our team contributes thousands of volunteer hours each year, along with equipment, training, and resources that save local taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Your donations help fund critical equipment, training, vehicles, and mission readiness, ensuring our volunteers are prepared to respond when help is needed most. Please consider supporting our mission with a donation.

Donate

Community Engagement

Interested in having Search & Rescue participate in a community event, career day, safety fair, presentation, or educational program? Please complete our request form below.

Appearance Request