Into the Wild: Search and Rescue in the Adirondacks

In this ADK Talks episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Jeff Berry and Elena Lumby, two dedicated members of Search and Rescue in the Northern Adirondacks (SARNAK). SARNAK is an all-volunteer organization based in Saranac Lake, primarily serving the Upstate New York region. It works closely with NYS DEC’s Forest Rangers, who, in addition to protecting and managing forests, parks and wildlife habitats, play a vital role in ensuring the safety of visitors. SARNAK also collaborates with other law enforcement agencies and first responders to assist with backcountry emergencies.Jeff and Elena delve into the rigorous and comprehensive training the SARNAK team undergoes, instilling confidence in their ability to assist NY’s dedicated Forest Rangers in any backcountry emergency.In this episode, you’ll hear:Stories from their Search and Rescue experiencesWhy “cotton can kill” in the wildernessHow Snickers bars, Swedish Fish, and Stewart’s chocolate-covered espresso beans are good for youWhy you shouldn’t go into the woods without two headlampsThe rise in wandering seniorsWhere to learn about the 10 hiking essentialsAlso mentioned in this podcast:SARNAKSARNAK on FacebookNYS DEC Forest Rangers Assistance 833-697-7264 North Elba Local Enhancement and Advance Fund – LEAF GrantsCalTopo Search and Rescue Mapping SoftwareNYS Forest Ranger Reports ArchiveNCPR: Rangers rescue hypothermic, frostbitten hiker in Adirondacks amid snowstormNew York Times: A Hiker Was Lost in the Woods. Snow Was Falling. Time Was Running Out.Hike Smart NY 10 Hiking EssentialsFind Your Local Search And Rescue Team90-Miler Northern Forest Canoe TrailPaul Smith’s VICFiddlehead BistroAdirondack Mountain Club (ADK)The LOJ at Heart LakeCrossroads Country StoreStewart’sADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat and things to do in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.Questions or comments? Email us at [email protected]. We'd love to hear from you!