Idaho Mountain Search & Rescue Unit

10/12/2026

This weekend IMSARU hosted a Managing the Inland Search Function (Emergency Response International) class for various search and rescue agencies and law enforcement personnel.

This training provides an opportunity for first responders to build their knowledge, strengthen coordination, and develop the skills needed to effectively manage search operations when someone goes missing.

By bringing together search and rescue professionals and law enforcement, we continue to strengthen partnerships, improve operational readiness, and enhance our ability to serve and protect our communities.

A big thank-you to all the agencies and participants committed to learning, collaborating, and making a difference!

And a special thank you to Ada County Sheriff's Office for their hospitality and ensuring the success of this class!

10/10/2026

Mission Update: Climber Rescue in Custer County

At 3:05 p.m. on Friday, October 9, IMSARU was contacted by the Idaho State Communications Center to assist with the rescue of a fallen climber at the base of the Elephant's Perch in the Sawtooth Mountains near Stanley.

IMSARU activated a four-person Technical Rescue Team to respond to Gowen Field to be flown to the scene by the Idaho Army National Guard. At the same time, a backup team of 10 IMSARU members prepared to respond by ground to support Custer County Sheriff's Office and Custer County Search & Rescue personnel making their way to the climber on foot.

Shortly after our team arrived at Gowen Field, Custer County ground teams reached the injured climber and IMSARU was stood down.

This was another great example of interagency coordination getting help to an injured climber quickly, and we're grateful to every agency involved:

🚔 Custer County Sheriff's Office
🚨 Custer County Search & Rescue
🚁 Idaho Army National Guard
📡 Idaho State Communications Center

Thank you for your partnership in serving the people of Idaho.

09/30/2026

IMSARU's Bike Team recently aided in a successful rescue in the Aldape summit area.
This mission was a significant use of the e-MTB's generously donated by Meridian Scheels. The added speed and ease of effectively searching while riding was critical to the success. Walk Mode was also helpful for the uphill slog out with one of the bikes. These bikes have been instrumental in both searches and rescues for our unit!

Thank you Scheels !

09/25/2026

Mission Update: Cliff Rescue in Owyhee County

On the evening of September 24, 2026, IMSARU received a request from the Owyhee County Sheriff's Office to assist with the rescue of a 21-year-old male who had become cliffed out several hundred feet above the ground in Purjue Canyon near Grand View. With no way up or down and limited room for movement he utilized voice to text to contact family and 911.

Owyhee County Sheriff's Deputies and Grand View Fire Department units arrived on scene and made voice contact with the subject, who was unable to climb up or down and was at risk of falling.

The Idaho State Communications Center coordinated with the Idaho Army National Guard, who flew members of IMSARU's Technical Rescue Team from Boise to the top of the cliff. Additional IMSARU members responded by ground to the base of the cliff shortly after. IMSARU deployed 22 members in total.

The Technical Rescue Team built a two tension rope system at the top of the cliff using a rock as an anchor and lowered a rescuer to the subject utilizing a "unsupported pick-off" technique. While the subject clung to the rock face, the rescuer fitted him with a harness, and both were then lowered to the ground. A medical assessment at the base found him uninjured apart from minor scrapes and cuts to his hands. He was transported back to base and reunited with his family.

The technical team reached the subject within five minutes of touchdown and had a rescue specialist at the subject within 16 minutes of first contact. This rescue was a true team effort, and we're grateful to every agency involved:

🚁 Idaho Army National Guard
🚔 Owyhee County Sheriff's Office
🚒 Grand View Fire Department
📡 Idaho State Communications Center

Thank you for your partnership and professionalism in getting this young man home safely.

09/24/2026

We had a great day today at the Micron Health and Safety Fair! Our team represented outdoor safety resources alongside other organizations contributing to workplace wellness as well as occupational health. We discussed outdoor safety tips, demonstrated some gear and reviewed how, when, why and where we operate. Thank you to everyone who visited today!

09/17/2026

We extend our sincere appreciation to all of the agencies and personnel who came together during today’s search and rescue operation.

Through strong interagency cooperation and a shared commitment to public safety, teams were able to work efficiently and effectively toward a successful outcome.

Thank you to every responder, partner agency, dispatcher, and support team whose dedication and professionalism contributed to the operation. This collaborative effort demonstrates the importance of working together when our community needs us most!

One team. Serving our community.

Ada County Sheriff's Office
Boise County Search & Rescue
Boise County Sheriff's Office
Idaho Army National Guard
Ada County Paramedics

UPDATE: 9/16/2026 at 5:40 p.m.: Scott was located with minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Huge thank you to the Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue Unit, the National Guard, Boise Police and the Boise County Sheriff’s Office.

On September 16, 2026, at approximately 10:30 a.m., Ada County Sheriff’s Office detectives and deputies, alongside the Idaho Mountain Search & Rescue Unit, began searching for missing mountain biker Scott Schneider.

Scott last made contact on September 13 at 11:54 a.m., when he left a voicemail for a friend. In the message, Scott indicated he was unsure of his exact location but believed he was near Aldape Summit and may have been heading toward Mores Creek Summit.

Search crews are utilizing UTVs and drones to assist in the search.

We will provide updates as the search continues.

09/14/2026

Recertification success!
To maintain Mountain Rescue Association membership we recertify every two years. This time was the summer recert. The team was evaluated on prep/operations, search, steep and low angle technical rope rescue, personal rope and search skills, and all of the other intangibles.
A lot of training and practice came to fruition today. IMSARU is proud to be an MRA founding member team and to maintain the associated standards.
Huge thanks to the proctors from Ravalli County and Cache County SAR teams and all that participated today.

09/03/2026

🚨 Ever wonder what happens when you need help in Idaho’s backcountry?
Join us for an evening Inside Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue — the volunteer team that answers the call when seconds count.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at:
• How missions are launched and coordinated with 911 and sheriffs
• What K9s, drones, and rope teams do in the field
• The gear rescuers carry — and how to prepare before you head out

Our team will also share how you can help us help you in an emergency.

September 17th at 6pm at Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue headquarters in Boise!

07/30/2026

Water you up to Friday!? Join IMSARU at Telaya Winery in Garden City for their Sip2Give fundraiser this Friday, July 31st. Come meet IMSARU members while enjoying some w**e, with a portion of proceeds donated to IMSARU. This has been one of our favorite evenings over the last few years and a mid-summer tradition we enjoy! We will be sharing some stories of recent water rescues, resources we have available, and our favorite summer training -swiftwater! See you there! Thank you, NRS!

How does water say hi? It waves 👋

07/08/2026

Mark your calendars! Plan Like A Pro is happening next week Thursday, July 16th at 6pm. Please join us at our compound for a night of emergency mitigation via careful trip planning and digital tools that you have at your disposal to ensure the safest and most reliable outcomes! See YOU there!