National Ski Patrol and North American Rescue Dogs Partner to Reinforce Mountain Safety with Canine Support

July 25, 2024

LAKEWOOD, Colo. and SEATTLE (July 25, 2024)/OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – National Ski Patrol (NSP), one of the largest organizations committed to safety and rescue education for the outdoor industry, is proud to announce a collaborative partnership with North American Rescue Dogs (N.A.R.D.), a nonprofit provider of grants for rescue dog training.

This strategic alliance, formed in December 2023, reflects the growing presence of highly trained rescue dogs at mountain resorts. These canine companions play a vital role in supporting patrol teams and in enhancing the safety of ski communities.

NSP has more than 30,000 members across 630 patrols in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia. Through this partnership, several ski patrols applied for grants, specifically designated for training and caring for their avalanche rescue dogs. Working together, NSP and N.A.R.D. awarded Avy Dog Grants to the following eight mountain-resort ski patrols (both large and small): Alpine Meadows, Calif.; Aspen Mountain, Colo.; Crystal Mountain, Wash.; Northstar, Calif.; Lost Trail, Mont.; Sugar Bowl, Calif.; Yellowstone Club, Mont.; and Winter Park, Colo.

Grants varied in amount, from $1,200 to $6,000, based on the needs of each recipient, with a total of $35,700 allocated. Additionally, N.A.R.D. granted $20,000 to NSP for education and programming.

“This partnership is a powerful collaboration. We’re linking NSP’s legacy and longstanding dedication to mountain safety and education with N.A.R.D.’s recent mission and financial resources, to help equip patrols with additional tools – canine tools, that is. Both of our organizations share a deep commitment to safety, a love for outdoor recreation, and a passion for the incredible work of rescue dogs,” said Stephanie Cox, CEO of National Ski Patrol.

“N.A.R.D.’s grants provide invaluable support for patrollers and ski areas, both on and off the slopes. Seven months later, the grant program has quickly helped patrol teams and dogs achieve a ‘rescue ready’ condition. And, as the popularity of mountain sports continues to rise, this additional support is more critical than ever,” she added.

N.A.R.D.’s mission is to streamline search and rescue response times and significantly enhance overall effectiveness. This nonprofit organization is committed to the welfare and training of canine partners and like-minded safety organizations like NSP, as well as the ongoing development and support of volunteer handlers.

“Our primary goal is to empower ski patrol groups to keep their communities safer and better prepared,” explains Hunter Robinson, founder of N.A.R.D. “Rescue dogs are invaluable assets in emergency situations, particularly during avalanches. Their presence can also provide emotional comfort to distressed or injured skiers. By providing these grants, we are ensuring that patrol groups have the necessary resources to train and care for their canine companions.”

“Mountain resorts are experiencing unprecedented levels of activity, placing an increased demand on patrollers and resources. We are here to support them. After all, trained dogs make a significant contribution to the safety of our mountain communities; and that’s good news for everyone,” Robinson added.

About National Ski Patrol

National Ski Patrol (NSP) is a federally-chartered 501(c)(3) nonprofit education and membership association. As the leading authority of on-mountain safety, NSP is dedicated to serving the outdoor recreation industry by providing education and accreditation to emergency care and safety service providers. With more than 30,000 members across 630 patrols in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia, NSP is one of the largest organizations committed to safety and rescue education for the outdoor industry. Members include ski, bike and other outdoor industry patrollers, as well as mountain and bike hosts, alumni, associates, and physician partners, working on behalf of local ski/snowboard areas and bike parks to enhance the overall experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Founded in 1938, NSP continues to advance its commitment to safety and its vision by leveraging the latest technology, innovation, and education. Visit NSP.org, and follow on Facebook and Instagram.

About North American Rescue Dogs

North American Rescue Dogs (N.A.R.D.) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that aims to provide financial resources to search-and-rescue services and communities in need by financially supporting trained and certified rescue dogs. N.A.R.D. relies on donations and grants to fund its operations with a focus on community outreach and education to raise awareness and support. Founded in June 2023 and based in Seattle, N.A.R.D. supports local, state, and federal agencies in their rescue operations. Visit www.helpnard.org, and follow on Instagram at @nard_org.

Media Inquiries and Photos

For interview requests with Stephanie Cox, CEO of National Ski Patrol or the Patrol Directors of the patrols that received N.A.R.D. grants, please contact Diane Amdur at Diane@AmdurCommunications.com or 303-521-3305. For interview requests with Hunter Robinson, founder of North American Rescue Dogs, please contact July Zaleski, JAM Collective at july@jamcollective.net or 206-605-5256. Photos available: Avy Dog Grant photos.

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