Drone helps rescue two more mushroom hunters in Skamania County

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) -- Two more mushroom hunters were rescued from Skamania County's hazardous and frigid backcountry this past weekend.

Once both were reported missing, more than 50 volunteers, as well as K9 and search and rescue teams from multiple counties, worked through "hail, sleet, pouring rain and freezing nights" to locate them, according to the Skamania County Sheriff's Office.

A break in the search came when a weather-proof drone deployed by the Clark County Sheriff's Office was able to find one of the missing mushroom hunters from the air.

The drone team then relayed communication to those on the ground, leading them through difficult terrain until both mushroom hunters were found safe.

"This operation stands as a testament to the power of teamwork, innovation, and the compassionate spirit of our search and rescue community," the sheriff's office said in a post on social media. "We are deeply grateful to every volunteer and team who contributed to this mission. Their dedication and resilience have made an immeasurable difference."

Multiple mushroom hunters have been rescued from the forests of Skamania County within the past month. These included one stuck in blizzard-like conditions on Oct. 30, as well as the rescues of three separate people within 24 hours on Oct. 27 and 28. However, in that time, a fourth person died before rescuers could arrive.

“The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind visitors and residents of the lowering temperatures, lower-altitude snow, and decreased daylight that occur this time of year,” the Sheriff’s Office added. “Always be prepared for adverse conditions and research your planned destination, as well as the weather report, before heading out into the wilderness.”