To the editor:

This is a great time of year to consider joining Search and Rescue of the Northern Adirondacks (SARNAK) to gain the skills needed to help state Department of Environmental Conservation Forest Rangers before the hiking season begins.

SARNAK is an all-volunteer organization based in Saranac Lake.

Our members are highly trained with the knowledge needed to help forest rangers and other law enforcement agencies during backcountry emergencies. It is also a diverse and fun group of people who love the outdoors.

Two important training events are coming up. On April 5, SARNAK members will complete their annual pack test. The pack test requires walking 2 miles, in 30 minutes, with a 25-pound pack (or for the arduous level, 3 miles, with a 45-pound pack, in 45 minutes).

By requiring members to pass this test each year, forest rangers know they can count on our members to be physically able to perform when we are called out to help.

A search certification course is scheduled for early May. In this course, participants gain the training and certification needed to join in backcountry searches.

SARNAK also holds training sessions the first Wednesday of every month, as well as occasional field practice days. For example, on April 22, SARNAK members can refresh their map and compass skills with a field training at the VIC.

If you are interested in learning more check out www.sarnak.org or visit us on Facebook.

Tammara Van Ryn

SARNAK volunteer

Saranac Lake