BOULDER COUNTY, COLORADO — Search and rescue operations and trail safety initiatives in Boulder County received a significant boost with the awarding of $721,703 in grants to eight local organizations. Funded through the Emergency Services Sales & Use Tax approved by voters in 2022 (County Issue 1B), the grants aim to strengthen emergency response capabilities across the county’s rural and mountainous areas.
The funds, distributed under the guidance of the Emergency Services Grant Program Advisory Committee, will support a range of projects, including communication system upgrades, facility repairs, equipment purchases, and advanced training for search and rescue teams.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Boulder County Sheriff Curtis Johnson praised the initiative, saying, “These grants reflect the community’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and visitors who enjoy our vast outdoor spaces. By investing in local organizations, we’re building a stronger, more capable emergency response network.”
Grant Awards Breakdown
Boulder County Amateur Radio Emergency Services (BCARES): $30,000
For critical upgrades to emergency communication systems, including voice, video, and digital channels.Boulder Emergency Squad (BES): $454,944
To fund facility improvements, including a roof replacement, and upgrade communication equipment to meet county standards by 2028.Boulder Mountainbike Alliance (BMA): $8,105
To enhance safety on trails through first aid training and equipment for the bike patrol team.Bryan Mountain Nordic Ski Patrol (BMNSP): $50,521
For CPR, avalanche awareness training, and improved communications equipment.Colorado 4×4 Rescue and Recovery: $10,000
To reimburse volunteers for personal expenses during search and recovery missions.Front Range Rescue Dogs (FRRD): $34,694
For advanced communication tools, including dog tracking collars and pagers.Indian Peaks Wilderness Alliance (IPWA): $7,207
To improve internal and partner communication systems with new devices and radio storage.Rocky Mountain Rescue Group, Inc. (RMR): $126,232
To upgrade to dual-band radios to meet county communication standards by 2028.
The Emergency Services Grant Program Advisory Committee—a nine-member team of residents with extensive emergency response expertise—was instrumental in recommending funding allocations.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
A Commitment to Public Safety
This marks the second round of grants since the program’s inception. In fall 2023, $1.7 million was distributed to rural and mountain fire protection districts, highlighting the county’s ongoing investment in emergency preparedness.
As Boulder County continues to attract outdoor enthusiasts year-round, these funds provide essential resources for ensuring safety in the backcountry and on local trails.
Sheriff Johnson emphasized the broader impact of the funding, adding, “This is about readiness, resilience, and saving lives. Every dollar invested in these organizations is a step toward a safer Boulder County.”
Supporting Search and Rescue Efforts
To further bolster local search and rescue operations, community members are encouraged to support these critical teams by purchasing a Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (COSAR) card. The proceeds directly aid SAR missions across the state. Learn more and buy a card at https://cpw.state.co.us/backcountry-search-and-rescue-program
RECENT MOUNTAIN NEWS
