Dedicated to Saving Lives, So That Others Might Live
Founded in 2003, our team was created to serve the Wolfe County community and the greater Red River Gorge area. We are highly trained, dedicated volunteers who are passionate about one thing: saving lives. From the rugged cliffs of the Gorge to Kentucky’s swift waters, our team is ready to respond to any emergency, no matter the challenge.
Our Mission
We are committed to providing expert, life-saving search and rescue services to those in need. Whether it’s a lost hiker, a climber stranded on a cliff, or swift water rescue during a flood, our mission is simple: to be there when we are needed most, so that others may live.
Our Story
Wolfe County Search & Rescue began as a grassroots effort, created by local citizens with a passion for keeping their community safe. Since our founding, we have grown into a highly specialized rescue team, serving not only Wolfe County but also Menifee and Breathitt Counties, and the internationally renowned Red River Gorge. Upon request, we assist Kentucky Emergency Management and the Kentucky State Police elsewhere in the state. Our work extends far beyond the cliffs and trails; we are prepared for any situation that comes our way—on land, in the water, and even underwater.
Over the years, WCSART has evolved to meet the demands of the environment and the needs of the people we serve. From rescuing hikers stranded to leading swift water rescues during record-breaking floods, we are constantly expanding our capabilities to stay ahead of Mother Nature’s challenges.
"...Wolfe County Search & Rescue stands ready for any challenge—on land, in the water, and beyond."
Our Response During Major Floods
In 2021, our team faced one of its most daunting challenges: the 100-year flood that swept through the region, followed by the 1,000-year flood in 2022. During these devastating natural disasters, our swift water rescue team was deployed along the North Fork of the Kentucky River, rescuing countless lives. These floods tested our skills and resilience, proving once again that we are ready to rise to any occasion when our community is in need.
Expanding Our Capabilities: Dive and Recovery Team
Tragedy struck in 2021 with a drowning in Wolfe Lake. In response, we expanded our skill set to include a recovery team with certified divers. This new capability allows us to conduct rescue and recovery missions not just on land or in swift water but also underwater, covering multiple lakes in the area. This addition strengthens our ability to assist those in distress, both above and below the surface.
Serving Wolfe County & Beyond
Wolfe County is nestled in the heart of one of the most beautiful and challenging landscapes in Kentucky. The Red River Gorge, with its towering cliffs, and waterfalls, attracts thousands of visitors each year. However, with this natural beauty comes risk. Our team is frequently called to respond to wilderness accidents, lost person incidents and cliff rescues.
Under the charter of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the direction of the Wolfe County Judge Executive, we proudly serve not only our local community but also provide critical rescue support for Menifee and Breathitt Counties. The Wolfe County Search & Rescue Team is more than just a group of volunteers—we are a lifeline for those in danger.
What We Do
WCSART is composed of a diverse group of skilled volunteers trained in various aspects of rescue operations.
Cliff Rescues
Specializing in high-angle rope rescues, we are experts in navigating the perilous cliffs of the Red River Gorge. When climbers or hikers find themselves stranded, we use technical rope systems to safely retrieve them, often in extreme conditions.
Swift Water Rescues
Our swift water rescue team is equipped and trained to respond quickly during floods and water emergencies. We’ve saved countless lives during some of the most dangerous flood events in Kentucky’s recent history.
Wilderness Searches
The vast terrain of the Red River Gorge is a popular destination, but it can also be unforgiving. Our search teams are trained to find lost or injured individuals in difficult terrain and bring them home safely
Diving & Water Recovery
Our team has expanded to include underwater rescue and recovery capabilities. Whether it’s a water-related accident or a recovery mission, our divers are ready to serve across the region’s lakes and waterways.
Join Our Life-Saving Mission
Whether it’s a one-time gift or a monthly contribution, every dollar counts.
Training and Dedication
The work we do is physically demanding and often involves life-or-death situations. To be prepared for these challenges, WCSART volunteers dedicate countless hours to training. We practice complex rope rescue systems, water rescue techniques, and wilderness search protocols to ensure we can respond effectively and efficiently when called upon. Our commitment to constant training is what makes us successful in our mission to save lives.
Leadership Team
We have about 50 team members who are led by a team of dedicated officers.
John R. May
Chief
Mike Hackett
Deputy Chief
Eric Lutkenhoff
Training Officer
Tommy Adams
Treasurer
Drew Stevens
Public Information Officer
Becky Brewer
Reporter
Paul Shellabarger
Quartermaster
David Maloney
Secretary
