About Us

Gichigami Search and Rescue provides professional, coordinated, and compassionate search and rescue services across Ashland and Bayfield Counties, including the sovereign territories of the Bad River and Red Cliff Bands of Lake Superior Chippewa. Through our specialized ground, aerial, mounted, K9, and water rescue units, we serve residents and visitors of northern Wisconsin with integrity, preparedness, and a deep commitment to saving lives in wilderness, water, and remote environments. We work in close partnership with local, county, and tribal agencies to ensure a timely and effective response to every call for help.

Compassion lies at the heart of all our endeavors. We approach each rescue mission with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to helping those in distress.

Teamwork is the foundation of our success. By collaborating seamlessly and supporting one another, we ensure effective and coordinated efforts in every rescue operation.

We operate with efficiency and precision to deliver timely aid to individuals in need. Our streamlined processes and trained personnel save lives.

Board of Directors

Board Chair

Heather Wisner

With more than a decade in SAR, Heather completed her master’s degree in K9 research at Prescott College, where she is now pursuing her PhD. Her work with her first K9 partner, Obi, led to the creation of Wisconsin’s first Search and Rescue K9 law in 2024, with additional bills currently moving through state committees. She continues to advance K9 science, support SAR teams across North America, and train with her K9 partners Obi, Rey, and Luke.

Board Vice-Chair

Meagan Quaderer

Meagan was born and raised in the Northwoods and brings over 20 years of experience in emergency services. She holds a master's degree in Community & Organizational Leadership from UW-Stevens Point. She is the director of Bayfield County's Emergency Management team as well as the consolidated Ashland-Bayfield Emergency Communications Center. In her free time, she enjoys quilting and working in the garden.

Board Secretary

Natasha Trush

Natasha has been a resident of the Chequamegon Bay area since the Fall of 2022. Outside of SAR, she works as an Environmental Health Specialist for Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. She is new to SAR, but excited to take on the administrative role. She is a certified diver and resides here with her husband and dog, Scarlett.

Training Coordinator

Maria Renz

Maria and her family have been Bayfield County Residents for most of the last 20 years. Maria first got involved with GSAR while working for Bayfield County’s Emergency Management. With her experience working with non-profit organizations, Maria keeps everything organized, and makes sure everyone is properly prepared for any job.