SARCON Agenda
Please use the class listing below to start planning your schedule.
- All Day Classes go from 8AM – 1700.
- AM Classes start at 8 AM and are 4-hour classes unless otherwise noted.
- PM Classes start at 1300 and are 4 hours unless otherwise noted.
You can click on any blue class name to view the description. Class descriptions (including a printable page) are below.
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
All Day Classes 0800 – 1700
- Air Scent
- Trailing
- HRD
- Area/Cadaver
For K9 Class Descriptions Please view the K9 Agenda Page
AM Classes 0800 – 1200
- None
PM Classes 1400 – 1700
- None
Thursday, April 30, 2026
All Day Classes 0800 – 1700
- Air Scent
- Trailing
- HRD
- Area/Cadaver
For K9 Class Descriptions Please view the K9 Agenda Page
AM Classes 0800 – 1200
- None
Friday, May 1, 2026
All Day Classes 0800 – 1700
- ATV/UTV
- Land Navigation
- Technical Rope Rescue – Day 1
- Tracker Instructor – Day 2
AM Classes 0800 – 1200
- Bone Identification
- Helicopter Awareness & Ingress/Egress
- Introduction to Family Liaison Officer
- SAR/CAL Topo Basics – Laptop
- Swiftwater Awareness
- Tracker III***
- Vehicle Recovery
- Loc8 – G2 pixel software – sUAS 8:00 AM – 2 hrs
- Loc8 – RDT sofwater – sUAS 10:00 AM – 2 hrs
- Fitness Test /Pack Check – Times TBD
- Tracker III Evaluations – Times TBD
PM Classes 1300 – 1700
- Advanced Tracking
- Low Angle Rescue / Patient Packaging
- Mission Ready
- SAR Topo Mobile App
- Search Tactics
- Wilderness Survival
- Fitness Test /Pack Check – Times TBD
- Tracker III Evaluations – Times TBD
- K9 Medical Care – 2 hours – 13 to 1500 or 15 to 1700
- K9 Helo – 2 Hours – 13 to 1500 or 15 to 1700
Saturday, May 2, 2026
All Day Classes 0800 – 1700
- ATV/UTV
- Technical Rope Rescue – Day 2
- Tracker Instructor – Day 3
Sunday, May 3, 2026
All Day Classes 0800 – 1700
- None
AM Classes 0800 – 1200
PM Classes
- None
Class information
Helpful to Know:
- Tracker instructor is a multi-day class. You will be assisting teaching in the Tracker 3 & 2 Classroom portions and performing evaluations for Tracker 3 & 2
- Trackers 3 & 2 are the CLASSROOM portion.
- Tracker 3 & 2 Field Evaluations will be held throughout the weekend; you MUST sign up for those during registration. (You MUST either have completed the classroom portion – and provide proof – or be registered for the classroom section at SARCON to test.)
- Advanced Tracking is NOT a certification course. It is intended to expand the knowledge of current trackers.
- Technical Ropes is a 2-day course, and for attendees who have a good working knowledge on rope rescue operations already.
- Survival Olympics will be a team-based competition covering outdoor survival tactics.
Class Descriptions
Click on the titles below to view the class information. You can also view and download a document with all the class information.
ATV/UTV
ATV/UTV
Instructor: Chris McCracken, Number of Students: 10, Class Duration: 8 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 8:00, Off-Site
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Off-Site
Class Description
Master the skills necessary to navigate unpredictable terrain and enhance your search capabilities. Operating Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV) presents unique risks, and this intensive 1-day course is designed to equip SAR volunteers with responsible, ethical, and tactical operation techniques. The curriculum covers the essential mechanics of both ATVs and Side-by-Sides (SxS). During the hands-on portion, you will apply these concepts to your own vehicle, navigating a specialized course featuring a flat track and challenging obstacles like rocks, mud, and water crossings. From mastering body positioning to understanding rollover angles, this training ensures you and your equipment are ready for the rigors of the field.
Special Instructions:
Students must provide their own OHV and will only receive hands-on training for the specific vehicle type they bring. Required safety gear includes a helmet, goggles or safety glasses, and gloves. Participants must bring a sack lunch unless they have signed up for a conference meal plan.
Bone Identification
Bone Identification
Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Vollner, Number of Students: 20, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 8:00, Loma Vista
- Sat. 5/2 – 13:00, Loma Vista
Class Description
Enhance your field observation skills with this specialized course on bone identification and decomposition. For SAR personnel, the ability to quickly distinguish between human and non-human remains is a critical skill that can save hours of unnecessary recovery efforts or, conversely, ensure a scene is preserved correctly. This class focuses on the morphological differences between human and animal skeletal remains and explores various decomposition patterns. By learning these key indicators, you will become a more effective and observant asset during searches involving potential remains.
Special Instructions:
Students should be prepared to view images or handle specimens related to skeletal remains and decomposition.
Fitness Test /Pack Check
Fitness Test /Pack Check
Instructor: Various, Test Duration: 2 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – tbd, Dining Hall
- Sat. 5/2 – tbd, Dining Hall
Class Description
Put your readiness to the test with the Fitness Test and Pack Check. This session is designed to ensure you and your gear are field-ready for the physical demands of search and rescue operations. Participants will undergo a thorough inspection of their required equipment to ensure compliance and safety standards are met, followed by a 2-mile fitness hike. This is a vital opportunity to verify your endurance and gear reliability before heading out on a mission.`
Special Instructions:
Participants must bring a pack weighted with at least 25 lbs and all required SAR equipment for inspection. You must bring your SAR II Taskbook to the session to receive a sign-off.
Taskbook:
SAR II Taskbook Course
Helicopter Awareness Ingress/Egress
Helicopter Awareness Ingress/Egress
Instructor: Chris Hecht, Number of Students: 15, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri 5/1 – 8:00, Craft A
- Sat. 5/2 – 13:00, Craft A
Class Description
Take your search and rescue capabilities to new heights with this comprehensive Helicopter Operations course. This training provides essential safety protocols for working in close proximity to aircraft, ensuring you can operate effectively in high-stakes environments. For those seeking hands-on experience, the Ingress/Egress portion offers the rare opportunity to practice loading and unloading while the rotors are turning (“hot” loading). This is critical training for any volunteer looking to integrate seamlessly with air support during a mission.
Special Instructions:
Bring SAR II Taskbook for sign off. Students must bring their SAR packs for loading practice. Those participating in the Ingress/Egress portion must provide a signed authorization letter from their SAR Coordinator and are required to bring eye protection, ear protection, and a hard hat with a chin strap.
Taskbook:
SAR II Taskbook course
Introduction to Family Liaison Officer
Introduction to Family Liaison Officer
Instructor: Amanda Kaufman, Number of Students: 15, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 8:00, Wilderness Camp 4
Class Description
Effective communication is a cornerstone of successful SAR missions, especially when dealing with the loved ones of a missing person. This course explores the critical role of the Family Liaison Officer, focusing on the responsibilities and ethical considerations required to bridge the gap between the search operation and the family. Through case study reviews and targeted interview techniques, you will learn how to manage sensitive interactions, provide clear updates, and maintain professional empathy during high-stress situations.
Introduction to Management of Spontaneous Volunteers
Introduction to Management of Spontaneous Volunteers
Instructor: Amanda Kaufman, Number of Students: 15, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Sat. 5/2 – 13:00, Chapel
Class Description
Effectively managing the surge of public support during a high-profile search is critical to mission success and safety. This course dives into the complexities of handling spontaneous volunteers, focusing on strategic management, appropriate task assignments, and the mitigation of potential liabilities. Learn how to turn public goodwill into a structured asset without compromising the integrity of the search or the safety of the operation.
K9 1st Aid and Medical Care in the field
K9 1st Aid and Medical Care in the field
Instructor: Laurie Palazzolo, Number of Students: 10, Class Duration: 2 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri – 5/1 – 13:00, Wilderness Camp 4
- Fri – 5/1 – 15:00, Wilderness Camp 4
Class Description
Equip yourself with the life-saving skills necessary to protect your most loyal partner in the field. This course provides a comprehensive overview of immediate medical treatment and emergency care for SAR K9s when professional veterinary help is miles away. From performing K9 CPR to administering essential first aid for field injuries, you will learn the critical interventions that can make the difference in a crisis. This is an essential workshop for any handler dedicated to the health and longevity of their canine teammate.
Special Instructions:
K9s are welcome to attend this session. Please bring your K9 Taskbook for sign-off.
K9 Helicopter Handler
K9 Handler Helicopter
Instructor: Chris Hecht, Number of Students: 10, Class Duration: 2 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 13:00, Craft A
- Fri 5/1 – 15:00, Craft A
Class Description
Prepare yourself and your K9 partner for the unique challenges of aerial deployments. This specialized course focuses on helicopter safety specifically for K9 teams, providing the critical skills needed to operate confidently around active aircraft. You and your partner will practice maneuvering and maintaining safety protocols while the blades are spinning, ensuring that both handler and K9 remain calm and effective during high-pressure insertions and extractions.
Special Instructions:
Students must provide eye, ear, and head protection for themselves and are required to have a muzzle for their K9. K9 eye protection is highly recommended. Please bring both your Tech II Taskbook and K9 Taskbook for sign-off.
Taskbook:
SAR II Taskbook course
Land Navigation
Land Navigation
Instructor: Alan Kropiewnicki, Number of Students: 20, Class Duration: 8 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri – 5/1 – 8:00, Meadows Vista B
Class Description
Put your navigation skills to the test in this comprehensive field evaluation. Designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice, this course challenges you to navigate a 1-mile hike using a combination of map, compass, and GPS. You will be expected to demonstrate proficiency in locating and plotting multiple points on a map while navigating varied terrain. This is an essential session for those looking to validate their field navigation accuracy and ensure they meet the rigorous standards required for active search missions.
Special Instructions:
Students must bring a compass, a GPS, a search pack, and wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear. Please bring your SAR II Taskbook for sign-off.
Taskbook:
SAR II Taskbook Course
Loc8 – Applied imagery collection – sUAS
Loc8 – Applied imagery collection – sUAS
Instructor: Brett Seidell, Number of Students: 12, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Meadows Vista B
Class Description
Elevate your aerial search capabilities in this hands-on drone operations workshop. This course provides operators with the opportunity to fly and collect E/O color imagery over a designated area featuring pre-hidden targets, simulating a real-world search scenario. Under the guidance of Loc8 experts, you will gain invaluable experience in mission planning and image processing to turn raw data into actionable intelligence. Whether you are looking to refine your flight patterns or master post-flight analysis, this class offers professional-level insights into modern SAR drone technology.
Special Instructions:
Students must provide their own drones. Due to helicopter operations and camp regulations, drone flight is strictly prohibited outside of designated class operations.
Loc8 – G2 pixel software – sUAS
Loc8 – G2 pixel software – sUAS
Instructor: Brett Seidell, Number of Students: 12, Class Duration: 2 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri – 5/1 – 8:00, Chapel
Class Description
Unlock the full potential of your aerial search data with the Loc8 G2 pixel software. This course provides drone operators with a deep dive into the Loc8 G2 interface, focusing on specialized image collection strategies designed to find what the human eye might miss. After mastering the interface, you will put your skills to the test by processing actual datasets to locate hidden targets. This training is essential for sUAS operators who want to transition from simply flying to providing high-speed, high-accuracy data analysis in the field.
Special Instructions:
Students must provide their own Windows laptop (Apple/Mac machines are not compatible) along with a power cord and extension cord. You must download and activate the provided Loc8 trial license and download the required sample datasets to your computer or an external drive prior to the start of class.
Loc8 – RDT sofwater – sUAS
Loc8 – RDT sofwater – sUAS
Instructor: Brett Seidell, Number of Students: 12, Class Duration: 2 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri – 5/1/2026 – 10:00, Chapel
Class Description
Maximize the efficiency of your aerial searches by mastering the RDT G2 interface. This technical course is designed to provide drone operators with advanced image collection strategies followed by hands-on practice using actual datasets containing pre-hidden targets. By working through real-world scenarios, you will learn how to navigate the software interface effectively and refine your data analysis skills to ensure no clue is missed during a mission.
Special Instructions:
Students must provide their own Windows laptop (Mac/Apple is not compatible) with a power cord and extension cord. You must download and activate the provided RDT G2 trial license and download the sample datasets to your computer or an external drive before arriving at class.
Low Angle Rescue / Patient Packaging
Low Angle Rescue / Patient Packaging
Instructor: Ryan Gloeckler, Number of Students: 15, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 13:00, Firepit
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Firepit
Class Description
Master the essentials of patient care and extraction in challenging environments. This course focuses on the technical skills required for Low Angle Rescue, specifically teaching you how to securely package a patient for transport to ensure their safety and stability. You will gain hands-on experience navigating a litter across varied terrain, learning the coordination and physical techniques necessary to move a subject efficiently while minimizing further injury. With a small class size, you will receive focused instruction to build your confidence in litter handling and patient management.
Special Instructions:
Please bring your SAR II Taskbook for sign-off.
Taskbook:
SAR II Taskbook Course
Mission Ready
Mission Ready
Instructor: Sue Haveruk, Number of Students: 15, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 13:00, Chapel
- Sat 5/2 – 8:00, Chapel
Class Description
Mission success depends as much on the strength of the team as it does on technical skill. The “Mission Ready” course provides you with practical tools to navigate the intense interpersonal dynamics of search and rescue operations. By focusing on high-pressure communication, conflict management, and maintaining unwavering professionalism, this course ensures that individuals and teams stay unified when it matters most. Learn to recognize the early signs of team breakdown and develop the skills to foster a culture of mutual respect, accountability, and cooperation that will sustain your team through the most demanding missions.
SAR/CAL Topo Basics – Laptop
SAR/CAL Topo Basics – Laptop
Instructor: Terry Cook, Number of Students: 15, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 8:00, Meadow Vista A
- Sat. 5/2 – 13:00, Meadow Vista A
- Sun 5/3 – 8:00, Meadow Vista A
Class Description
Master the digital tools essential for modern search management in this introductory course on SAR Topo and CalTopo. You will learn the fundamental operations of the software, from creating detailed tactical maps to organizing and running an active search mission. This session provides the groundwork for utilizing geospatial data to improve search efficiency and team coordination. Whether you are new to the platform or looking to solidify your basic skills, this class ensures you can navigate the interface and build the maps necessary for a successful response.
Special Instructions:
Please bring a laptop with SARTopo/CalTopo installed, along with your charging cord and an extension cord. If you have a portable MiFi or jetpack device for internet connectivity, please bring it to class as well.
SAR Topo Mobile App
SAR Topo Mobile App
Instructor: Eric Leader, Number of Students: 20, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri 5/1 – 13:00, Wilderness Camp 2
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Wilderness Camp 2
- Sun 5/3 – 8:00, Wilderness Camp 2
Class Description
Transform your smartphone into a powerful field asset with this comprehensive guide to the CalTopo mobile app. Designed specifically for ground teams and field responders, this course moves beyond the basics to show you how to utilize the app during active search operations. You will gain hands-on experience by downloading shared search maps, recording tracks, and logging critical objects in real-time during a simulated field search. With a provided SAR “cheat sheet” and expert instruction, you’ll leave this course ready to navigate and document your search area with professional precision.
Special Instructions:
Please download the CalTopo App on your phone or tablet prior to arrival. Students must bring a portable charging device (power bank) and the appropriate charging cord to ensure their device remains powered during the field simulation.
Search Tactics
Search Tactics
Instructor: Deneise Piepiora, Number of Students: 15, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 13:00, Craft B
- Sat. 5/2 – 13:00, Craft B
- Sun. 5/3 – 8:00, Craft B
Class Description
Step inside the mind of both the searcher and the subject. This course bridges the gap between field execution and incident command strategy, offering a deep dive into the “why” behind specific search assignments. You will explore various field tactics, learn to predict subject behavior based on lost person statistics, and gain a clearer understanding of the Incident Commander’s decision-making process. By understanding the broader strategy, you can execute your field tasks with greater intent and effectiveness.
Special Instructions:
Please bring your SAR II Taskbook for sign-off.
Taskbook:
SAR II Taskbook
Survival Olympics
Survival Olympics
Instructor: Scott Kozakiewicz, Number of Students: 24**, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Sun 5/3 – 8:00, Wilderness Camp 1 – Fire Pit
Class Description
Put your survival instincts and field skills to the ultimate test in the Survival Olympics! This high-energy team competition challenges SAR personnel to demonstrate mastery in the core pillars of survival: navigation, fire starting, shelter building, and wilderness medicine. Working in teams of four, you’ll face off against your peers to build sustainable fires without matches, construct functional traps, and engineer shelters using only provided materials and proper lashings. This isn’t just a test of what you know—it’s a test of how well you can execute under the clock and collaborate with your team. Only one team will walk away with the prizes and the ultimate bragging rights!
Special Instructions:
Limited to 24 participants (6 teams of 4). Team lists and full instructions will be provided on Saturday at lunch. A bow-and-drill competition will serve as the tie-breaker.
Swiftwater Awareness
Swiftwater Awareness
Instructor: Dan Bolin, Number of Students: 14, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 8:00, Wilderness 1 – Firepit
- Sat. 5/2 – 13:00, Wilderness 1 – Firepit
Class Description
Equip yourself with the fundamental knowledge required to stay safe around moving water. This introductory course focuses on the “Stop, Look, and Listen” of swiftwater environments, teaching you to recognize the hidden hazards and powerful dynamics of moving water. You will learn to identify risks, understand basic hydrology, and maintain situational awareness during searches near rivers or floodwaters. This class is an essential first step for any SAR responder who may operate near the water’s edge, ensuring you can support a mission without becoming a victim yourself.
Technical Rope Rescue
Technical Rope Rescue
Instructor: Tom Pendley, Number of Students: 14, Class Duration: 16 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 8:00, Wilderness Camp 6 – Climbing Tower
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Offsite – tbd
Class Description
Step into the future of wilderness extraction with a focus on lightweight, high-efficiency systems. This year’s technical rope course dives deep into backcountry gear and advanced edge operations, featuring hands-on training with the SMC Vector gin pole and 9.5mm TTRS systems. You will master edge transitions without high directionals using “Pike and Pivot” techniques and explore small-team tactics for missions where gear and personnel are limited. Day two takes the training off-campus to a natural edge, providing a realistic environment to refine your leadership and technical skills. This is a 2 day course.
Special Instructions:
This course requires prior rope rescue training. Participants must bring a helmet, gloves, harness, and sturdy boots. Please review knots and mechanical advantage principles before class. Day two will be held at an off-campus location.
Tracker II
Tracker II
Instructor: Dr. Bob Rose, Number of Students: 25, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Craft B
Class Description
Ready to take your tracking skills beyond the basics? Tracker II is designed for experienced searchers looking to master the mid-level technical aspects of man-tracking. This course moves from simple sign recognition to more complex scenarios, teaching you how to maintain the track through difficult terrain and varying lighting conditions. By refining your ability to differentiate between “sign” and environmental noise, you will become a faster, more effective asset in the field. This session is specifically tailored to prepare participants for the ASARCA Tracker II Certification.
Special Instructions:
Prerequisites: Participants must provide proof of Tracker III certification or be currently enrolled in the Tracker III course at SARCON.
Requirements: This is the theory/classroom portion; you must sign up for the Tracker II Evaluation Course separately to be certified. Bring your search pack, appropriate field clothing/footwear, and your Tracker II Taskbook for sign-off. A tracking stick, measuring tape, and notepad/pencil are highly recommended.
Taskbook:
SAR Tracker II Taskbook Course
Tracker III
Tracker III
Instructor: Dr. Bob Rose, Number of Students: 25, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 08:00, Craft B
Class Description
Unlock the ability to “read the ground” in this foundational introduction to the art of man-tracking. In Tracker III, you will learn to recognize and interpret the subtle signs—compressed soil, broken vegetation, and displaced debris—left behind by a missing subject. This classroom session focuses on the visual psychology and technical mechanics of tracking, providing you with the essential skills to determine a subject’s direction of travel and accelerate the search process. This course is specifically designed to prepare students for the ASARCA Tracker III Certification.
Special Instructions:
This is the lecture/theory portion only. If you wish to be certified, you must also sign up for the Tracker III Evaluation Course.
Required Gear: You must have your search pack and appropriate clothing and footwear for the conditions. A tracking stick, measuring tape, and notepad/pencil are highly recommended. Please bring your Tracker III Taskbook for sign-off.
Taskbook:
SAR Tracker III Taskbook Course
Tracker III or II Evaluations
Tracker Evaluations III or II
Instructors: TBD, Class Duration: 2 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Tracker III Evaluations Fri 5/1
- Tracker II Evaluations Sat 5/2
- You will sign up on a separate form and be assigned your date and time
Class Description
Put your skills to the test in a formal field evaluation. Designed for those ready to achieve their Tracker III or Tracker II certification, these sessions move out of the classroom and onto the ground. You will be tasked with identifying and following sign in real-world conditions under the observation of ASARCA evaluators. Successful completion of a field practical is the next step in proving your proficiency and securing your ranking.
Special Instructions:
Students must have already completed the corresponding Tracker III or Tracker II classroom portion or be registered for it at this SARCON. You will be assigned a specific date and time on Friday or Saturday for your evaluation after registration. You must have your search pack and appropriate field clothing and footwear for the conditions. A tracking stick, measuring tape, and notepad/pencil are highly recommended. Please bring the appropriate Tracker Taskbook for formal sign-off.
Taskbook:
SAR Tracker III Taskbook Course
Tracker Instructor
Tracker Instructor
Instructor: Dr. Bob Rose, Number of Students: 10, Class Duration: 10 + hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Thurs 4/30 – 14:00, Craft B
- Fri. 5/1 – 8:00, Craft B
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Craft B
- Tracker Evaluations Fri & Sat afternoons
Class Description
Step into a leadership role within the tracking community by becoming an ASARCA Tracking Instructor. This intensive, multi-day commitment transitions you from a practitioner to an educator. Starting with instructor-level coursework on Thursday afternoon, you will spend Friday and Saturday applying your knowledge by assisting with classroom instruction and conducting field evaluations for Tracker II and III candidates. This is a critical course for those dedicated to maintaining the high standards of man-tracking and mentoring the next generation of SAR responders.
Special Instructions:
Students must provide proof of current tracker certifications to enroll. This course begins Thursday afternoon at 1400 hours; please plan to arrive by noon on Thursday for check-in. Students registered for this class who have chosen a meal plan will be provided lunch on Thursday. This course requires a three-day commitment: Thursday (Instructor Class), and Friday/Saturday (Assisting with Classroom/Evaluations). Please bring your search pack, field clothing, tracking stick, measuring tape, and notepad/pencil and a clipboard if you have one.
Taskbook:
ASARCA Tracker Evaluator/Instructor
Tracking – Advanced
Tracking – Advanced
Instructor: Jeremiah Lai, Number of Students: 12, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 14:00, Loma Vista
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Loma Vista
Class Description
Elevate your tracking proficiency with this rare opportunity to train under an instructor from BORSTAR, the U.S. Border Patrol’s elite search and rescue unit. This advanced session goes beyond basic sign recognition, diving into high-level sign cutting techniques and tactical tracking used by some of the most skilled trackers in the world. Designed specifically for experienced personnel, the course focuses on refining your “visual IQ” and speed in the field, helping you close the gap on a subject in complex environments.
Special Instructions:
This class is for skill enhancement and does not qualify as a substitute for ASARCA Tracker I, II, or III certification. Please bring your search pack, appropriate field clothing, and sturdy footwear. A tracking stick, measuring tape, and notepad/pencil are highly recommended.
Vehicle Recovery
Vehicle Recovery
Instructor: Ian Williamson, Number of Students: 12, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 8:00, Dining Hall Parking Lot
- Sat. 5/2 – 13:00, Dining Hall Parking Lot
Class Description
Equip yourself with the skills to handle off-road mishaps and environmental obstacles safely. This hands-on course covers the essential mechanics of vehicle recovery, including equipment identification, self-recovery techniques, and the safe extraction of other vehicles. You will learn to utilize winches and specialized accessories to move debris and clear pathways in challenging terrain. Whether you are operating a dedicated SAR vehicle or supporting field logistics, this class ensures you can manage mechanical recoveries without compromising the safety of your team or equipment.
Special Instructions:
Students are required to bring work gloves and eye protection. The instructor will provide a winch-equipped vehicle and necessary rigging for demonstrations. While student-owned recovery equipment is encouraged for discussion, its use during the class will be at the sole discretion of the instructor.
Wilderness Survival
Wilderness Survival
Instructor: Scott Kozakiewicz, Number of Students: 25, Class Duration: 4 Hours
Date(s) & Time(s) & Location(s):
- Fri. 5/1 – 13:00, Meadow Vista A
- Sat. 5/2 – 8:00, Meadow Vista A
Class Description
Prepare yourself for the unexpected with this essential survival course designed for the SAR professional. You will dive into the core pillars of wilderness survival—gear, skills, and, most importantly, the mental attitude required to endure an isolated environment for 24 to 72 hours. This course provides the confidence and technical knowledge to manage your own safety while operating in the field, ensuring you remain an asset to your team even when conditions turn for the worse.
Special Instructions:
Please bring your SAR II Taskbook for sign-off. Students should have their standard 24-hour search pack available for review or practical exercises.
Taskbook:
SAR II Taskbook