COWICHAN VALLEY – New Democrat MLA Doug Routley says annual funding from the provincial government will help ensure that Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) groups and their volunteers are there when people need help in the backcountry.

“Nanaimo, Cowichan, and Ladysmith offer several trails, creeks, and forested areas that people of this region use for recreation and pleasure,” says Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “I’m glad our government is funding the Search and Rescue teams for these three cities, so the dedicated volunteers are prepared to deal with any type of situation.”

Cowichan Valley Search and Rescue, Ladysmith Search and Rescue, and Nanaimo Search and Rescue will each receive their share of $6 million from the province through funding to the BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) with the average distribution amount being approximately $63,000 per group.

Funding will support lifesaving rescue equipment, essential training, protective equipment for volunteers and administration costs, such as insurance.

This is the second year of this annual funding agreement between the province and BCSARA, which is the only agreement of its kind in Canada.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/29150