THE DIVE TEAM
Serving the waterways of Nevada County
The Dive Team recovers drowning victims from waterways across Nevada County. Their mission includes waterways like Rollins Reservoir, Scott’s Flat Lake, Englebright Lake, Prosser and Boca Reservoirs, as well as the Yuba and Bear Rivers.
Want to become involved with the Dive Team?
You must first apply to become members of the Sheriff’s Search & Rescue Team. Once deemed mission ready you must also possess, at a minimum, a basic open water SCUBA certification from an accredited diver certification organization (e.g. PADI, NAUI, SSI, etc.) . The SAR member can then request to become a member of the Dive Team, which will require them to show proficiency and physical ability. An interview with team leadership and a review of past diving records will also be conducted prior to being considered for a spot on the team.
Equipment
The Dive Team works closely with the Sheriff’s Marine Patrol Unit, utilizing its many patrol boats to further the mission of the team. These boats consist of aluminum hull jet boats, as well as a 12 foot Achilles brand rigid hull inflatable raft. The team owns and trains with a Seabotix brand underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).
Practice
The Team conducts trainings on a monthly basis, with an emphasis on rehearsing skills that involve underwater search and recovery techniques.
Members
The Dive Team is comprised of sworn deputy sheriff’s from the department, as well as civilian members of the Sheriff’s Search & Rescue Team. The team is supervised by a Sergeant from the Sheriff’s Office and assisted by a civilian assistant team leader from Search and Rescue.