King County Search and Rescue Highlights Volunteer Service at North Bend Council Meeting

Carrie Lee Gagnon, Executive Director of KCSARA, outlined the organization's mission at the September 2, 2025, City Council meeting. KCSARA coordinates nine volunteer units dedicated to wilderness rescues, missing person searches, and disaster response, all funded through community donations. Doug McCall, Chair of Seattle Mountain Rescue, expressed gratitude for their integration into the North Bend community since establishing a base in 2020. With 600 volunteers registered as Emergency Workers with Washington State, KCSARA plays a critical role in public safety. Mayor Miller acknowledged their invaluable service and commitment to the community.

In the last three years, King County has conducted 483 search and rescue missions, part of an annual average of 900 to 1,000 statewide. The meeting encouraged community involvement through volunteer opportunities and donations. KCSARA continues to provide essential services year-round, driven entirely by local support.