About Us

Established in 1971

Foundation of the Team

In 1971, a Socorro High School teacher fell and broke his leg while climbing the Sierra Ladrones mountains. After he was rescued, the State Police asked for a search and rescue team to be formed in the Socorro area. The NMT Gymnasium supported the team, and a student club was formed.

Organization

After more than 55 years of service to New Mexico, SSAR operates a bit differently than we originally did. SSAR is a student organization of NMT, administered by the NMT Student Government Association. As such, we are a volunteer organization whose members consist primarily of NMT students. However, all students, faculty, staff, and greater Socorro community members are welcome to join. Additionally, SSAR acts as a member team of the New Mexico Search and Rescue Council. Under the administration of these agencies and the direction of the NM Department of Public Safety, we provide primary search and rescue capabilities to Socorro, Catron, and Sierra counties, as well as back-up support for the entire state.

Community Involvement

Each year SSAR assists with New Mexico Tech’s Paint the M and Elfego Baca Golf Shoot, events that take place during 49ers. We also provide safety support to other events, such as the Box Canyon Climbing competition. We will respond 24/7 365 to SAR missions locally and state-wide.

Explore

Team members explore all of the diverse landscapes of New Mexico in support of SAR missions state-wide. Members see brand new places while supporting their community and learning valuable, life-saving skills.

Learn

Members are trained in general and specialized SAR and emergency management skills. Guest trainers and outside resources are brought in to advance our team to be highly prepared for situations we may face.

Make a difference

Members respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year regardless of the weather to provide primary and support search and rescue resources to the state of New Mexico.