Pecos Valley Public Services has been a State of New Mexico-recognized Search & Rescue organization since its humble beginnings in 2022. We established this organization to create a group that not only bears the name “Search & Rescue” but is also well-equipped, physically capable, well-trained, and highly motivated to accomplish its tasks.

We have conducted numerous training sessions, embarked on regular prep missions, and worked hard to secure the funding necessary to purchase equipment such as drones, ATVs, radios, ropes, and other essential items. We even acquired an Emergency Response Truck, which serves as a communications hub and offers shelter against heat, cold, and inclement weather. It also carries medical equipment to provide First Aid and BLS services. Our volunteers have earned additional certifications and licenses, including drone pilot licenses, ham radio operator certifications, tracking, digital maps and qualifications as AHA and “Stop The Bleed” instructor, wilderness first responders and Emergency Medical Technicians.

Pecos Valley Public Services has provided both equipment and volunteers for every Search & Rescue call we received, even assisting in searches as far away as Sunland Park (213 miles from Roswell) and Belen (209 miles from Roswell).

However, being a state-recognized Search & Rescue organization has its drawbacks. Chief among them is the prohibition against “self-deploying,” meaning we cannot conduct any operations that could be perceived as official Search & Rescue activities without state authorization. This restriction might even prevent us from assisting local authorities with rescue operations. Our efforts to support the homeless, despite not wearing Search & Rescue uniforms, have also caused issues due to these limitations.

The field of Search & Rescue is evolving rapidly. With the advent of widespread cell phone coverage, even in remote areas, and satellite communications becoming available on cell phones, the “search” aspect is diminishing, while the need for “rescue” operations is increasing.

After careful consideration, the directors of Pecos Valley Public Services have decided to exit the State of New Mexico’s Search & Rescue framework. We are now shifting our focus to localized “Wilderness Rescue” and are also extending our services in the county to include more projects that benefit our community right here.

This transition will not significantly alter our activities. We will continue our rigorous training, maintain physical fitness, and be ready to respond at a moment’s notice. However, we will now be able to directly support local organizations, agencies, businesses, and even private individuals in need of assistance. We will also intensify our efforts to monitor and provide services in our neighborhoods and at wilderness or recreational hot-spots.

As a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), we gain greater flexibility to assist in various situations. Our charity’s purpose is to alleviate human suffering during emergencies and promote the safe and responsible use of our wilderness areas.

This mission will remain our focus now and in the future.