The Kootenai County VSAR team operates under the authority of the Kootenai County Sheriff.

The team is overseen by two Deputies and a Sergeant that are assigned to the Recreational Saftey Division.

The VSAR  team is composed of dedicated volunteers from diverse backgrounds who are united by a common goal: to assist in search and rescue operations within Kootenai County and, when necessary, beyond its borders. The team includes individuals with various skills, including but not limited to:

• Outdoor Enthusiasts: People with a passion for hiking, climbing, and outdoor navigation.
• Technical Specialists: Experts in areas such as rope rescue and avalanche response.
• Canine Handlers: Teams with trained search and rescue dogs for scent tracking and locating missing persons.
• Support Staff: Individuals who provide logistical support, communication, and coordination during missions.