Maine search and rescue operations funded by state general fund

The Maine Warden Service manages between 450 and 500 inland search and rescue calls annually, including incidents involving hikers, boating accidents, and individuals experiencing memory loss. Between 2022 and 2024, the department spent an average of $430,000 per year on these operations, funded primarily through the state’s general fund.

While local fire departments and other first responders also incur costs, the financial burden on state and local governments is mitigated by volunteers from the Maine Association for Search and Rescue, who provide services and equipment at no cost. Although Maine possesses laws allowing the state to bill individuals for rescues necessitated by negligence or recklessness—similar to statutes in New Hampshire—the state rarely utilizes these reimbursement options.