Cascade County Sheriff’s Office

Media Release

October 28, 2009

With the recent heavy snows in the Little Belt Mountains our office along with our Cascade County Search and Rescue unit has responded to three calls for service. Late yesterday we had a report of a stranded hunter who had become stuck in the deep snow off of Divide Road near Dry Park. Search and Rescue supported by our office along with two Fish Wildlife and Parks Wardens were able to locate and bring the hunter out without incident.

An attempt was made to welfare check other hunters in the area but due to the two to four feet of fresh snow with no base compounded by heavy winds snow mobiles were unable to do the complete the check.

Currently Search and Rescue supported by our Office and the Forest Service is responding to a report of two males walking out from Harley Park on Divide road due to their trucks being stuck.

Our Office is in support of the Lewis and Clark National Forest  press release advising caution when heading into the mountains on your upcoming hunts. Remember to take extra food & water, have clothing and gear to sustain you if you should become stuck. The forest roads above 4000 feet are difficult or impassible.

For those that have family or friends currently camped in those areas be advised that the Forest Service did a check on that area Saturday and all appeared to be well prepared for the upcoming weather. Also be aware they may be delayed in getting out due to the heavy snow. If you have concerns please feel free to contact the Cascade County Sheriff/Coroner’s Office or the Lewis and Clark National Forest.

Be Safe
David L. Castle, Sheriff