Snowcats needed for winter rescue

Most of the North Fork, north of Canyon Creek, is now closed to snowmobilers. There are some exceptions, where unplowed roads are open.

I stand by my statement that search and rescue training has been limited by the closures. SAR training requires space so that actual missions have operators experienced in backcountry snow conditions. You can not adequately train on groomed trails or even on unplowed roads. Very often, backcountry missions involve heavy powder, steep hillsides and running through trees. Extreme skill is important, but so is being familiar with the area.

Both North Valley and Flathead SAR also have non-motorized training, and we are fortunate to also have the Flathead Nordic Ski Patrol, which is entirely non-motorized. Our common mission is to search and rescue anyone who needs help — even those who illegally enter closed areas. Law enforcement is left to sort that out after the mission.

This winter, the body of skier killed in an avalanche was recovered by a team of 10 snowmobilers. All were skilled and trained, but only one had the knowledge to get to that spot. Weather and terrain prevented the Flathead Nordic Ski Patrol from reaching the site on foot. The snowmobiles traveled the back way — nearly 20 miles — and were able to find the body, and it was returned to the family.

Same thing with severe injuries. Rescuers on foot take much longer to carry an injured person out than a snowmobile pulling an ambulance sled. Does anyone really question the use of motorized rescue equipment in those circumstances? I doubt it.

I may not agree with many of the Forest Service road closures, but even the Forest Service authorizes the use of snowmobiles for injuries or fatalities. I am just saying that there should also be areas for training and limited opportunities for SAR folks — maybe with the Forest Service law enforcement — to become familiar with possible routes to conduct rescue missions when they occur.

Whether or not road closures are beneficial to wildlife is hotly debated. Whether or not snowmobiles affect wildlife is also debated. Some argue that a person on snowshoes creates more stress to animals because they move so slowly compared to a snowmobile, which is gone in seconds.

I’m not enough of an expert to know about that. I am, however, totally convinced that people who need help due to an injury or heart attack should receive that help as quickly as possible by whatever means area available.

That includes the discovery and retrieval of human bodies. In that case the victim may not be helped, but it sure is important for their friends and families. What do you think?