Mission Statement

The primary purpose of the Grand Forks County Water Rescue Team is to provide an organized group of Water Rescue Specialists, properly trained and equipped for rapid response to water related emergencies.

Grand Forks County Water Rescue is a volunteer organization working as a sub-unit of the Sheriff's Department that conducts water related rescue and recovery operations.  Membership is comprised of Sheriff's Deputies and volunteers from various disciplines throughout the county, and is open to both divers and non-divers.

Along with responding to water related emergencies to rescue persons, recovering victims from drowning situations, and recovering crime scene evidence and/or property, the Grand Forks Water Rescue Unit works throughout the Grand Forks area promoting water safety education. Working with Safe Kids Grand Forks, the unit participates each May with the Kids Don't Float Program as well as various community events throughout the year.

The team consists of Public Safety Divers and Support Personnel. The Unit is managed by the Grand Forks County Sheriff’s Department and provides services for agencies throughout the region.  The unit is fortunate to have its own Public Safety Diving Instructor.

The Grand Forks County Water Rescue Unit is registered with the ND State Attorney General as a non-profit organization to aid in its funding.  Funding is also provided through the Sheriff’s Department's budget, grants, and private donations. If you are interested in helping support the Water Rescue Unit, please contact Major Mike Fonder regarding donations.

In addition to standard diving equipment, the unit is equipped with:

• Water 1: 1991 43' Spartan Motor Coach
• Water 2: Converted Ambulance
• 3 Zodiac Type (Inflatable) Boats
• One 16 foot “John Boat”
• Various Outboard Motors

If you have questions or would like an application for the team contact Major Mike Fonder:

Phone: 701-780-8280  or  E-mail: water.rescue@gfcounty.com