Search and Rescue Volunteers Can Better Access the Trails With E-Bikes

The many miles of rugged trails around Cortez make it challenging for search and rescue volunteers to get to scenes quickly and help injured or lost hikers and bikers. To better assist folks on the trail, volunteers with United Search and Rescue of Montezuma County have been exploring alternative ways to access trails—particularly during race events like the 12 Hours of Mesa Verde, for which they are the primary medical response unit. To address the problem, USARMC reached out to the LOR Foundation, which helped the group purchase two E-bikes outfitted with medical packs to improve the response time and make sure anyone injured in the backcountry can receive prompt care.