Logo courtesy of Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue

CHICO, CA (MPG) - Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue has purchased about seven acres in south Chico for a future headquarters, marking a step toward expanding its emergency response capacity across the county.

The property will serve as a centralized base for training, equipment storage, operations and community outreach. Officials said the site will allow the all-volunteer team to respond more quickly and coordinate more effectively as demand for services grows.

The purchase comes as the organization marks its 65th year. Search and Rescue teams have assisted during wildfires, floods, missing person searches and technical rescues in remote terrain.

“This property represents an investment in the future of our team and the safety of our community,” said BCSAR Captain Dan Newman. “As Butte County continues to grow and disasters become more frequent and complex, this new headquarters will allow us to better train, coordinate and deploy resources when our community needs us most.”

The site will support what officials call Operation Rescue Ready, an effort to establish a permanent training and operations center. Plans include space for technical and medical training, secure storage for specialized equipment and vehicles, and improved coordination during large-scale incidents.

Leaders said the project was funded through a mix of donations, grants and community fundraising efforts.

“These donors recognized the long-term impact this project will have on public safety in Butte County,” said BCSAR President Christina Skaggs. “Their support, along with contributions from many others in the community, helped turn a long-standing vision into a reality.”

Development will move forward in phases, with additional fundraising underway to support construction and future expansion. Organizers said they will continue working with local agencies and community partners as planning progresses.

“This is just the beginning,” said building committee chair Kevin Soukup. “We are building not just a facility, but a legacy of service that will support Butte County for generations to come.”

Founded in 1961, Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue operates under the Butte County Sheriff’s Office and provides search, rescue and disaster response services at no cost to those in need.