Published December 6, 2017 01:20PM
Who Should Pay for Wilderness Rescues?
New York Search and Rescue teams spend hundreds of thousands of dollars each year--and rescue incidents are rising.
'David Abercrombie'
Search and Rescue incidents are up in recent years, especially in the Adirondacks–racking up costs for staff hours and helicopter assistance. The Department of Environmental Conservation recently stated it will not charge individuals for their own rescues, though residents can choose to buy a $25 Hike-Save Card that helps fund rescue operations.