NSGSARA WEB SITE HISTORY   The Nova Scotia Ground Search And Rescue Association represents the 24 volunteer ground search and rescue (GSAR) teams in Nova Scotia that encompass more than 1600 men and women. The first GSAR teams originated in Cape Breton in the 1960's and eventually spread throughout Nova Scotia. The tragic loss of a child and a volunteer ground searcher in 1969 created a real awareness of the need for a formally mandated ground search and rescue program. The Emergency Measures Organization of Nova Scotia EMO (N.S.), took the initiative and created the first GSAR Program, complete with financial and workers' compensation support for volunteer GSAR participants. The provincial organization was formed in 1990 with the inaugural meeting of the NSGSARA being held in Schubenacadie.  In October 1994, the program was further strengthened by the signing of a formal Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) between the RCMP (Nova Scotia, 'H' Division), EMO (N.S.) and the NSGSARA. These three organizations, co-operating through the sharing of resources and volunteers have developed an efficient, effective and comprehensive GSAR Program. In addition, GSAR Program participants have delivered a preventive ground search and rescue program to more than 50,000 young Nova Scotians. Current research and development activities are continuing to find new ways to ensure the successful rescue of those whose lives are in danger. In 2004, through the hard work of the EMO(NS);  a second  MOU was signed between EMO (NS), Parks Canada and the NSGSARA.  In addition to further strengthening the GSAR program in Nova Scotia, this is the first partnership of this type between Parks Canada and a Volunteer GSAR group.  We welcome this partnership with Parks Canada and want to thank their members for their participation and assistance  in our Fall Training Workshop and Annual General Meeting in Camp Aldershot in November, 2004.