Search And Rescue Locates Lost Mushroom Picker (Photo)
- 11/25/25
On Sunday, November 23, 2025, at just before 3:00 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 text to dispatch for a distressed mushroom picker in a remote area of Washington County near the Barney Reservoir.
Deputies learned that a 72-year-old woman was out collecting seasonal chanterelle mushrooms when she entered an area from which she was unable to get out due to slick terrain and a steep incline. Deputies from both the Washington and Yamhill County Sheriff’s Offices responded to aid in locating the woman.
Initial search efforts were unsuccessful, and additional resources were called to assist, including Search and Rescue (SAR) teams from Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia Counties, along with Hillsboro and the Oregon State Police. Searchers also deployed drones and a K9.
Several hours into the search, the woman was located by using GPS coordinates from the drone and ground searchers. The woman used a whistle she had brought with her to help guide the search teams to her location. SAR used a rope system to reach her and assist her in getting back out.
Aside from being cold, wet, and thirsty, the woman did not report any injuries.
The Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the collaborative efforts of all the responders and thankful that the woman was safely located. If you choose to adventure into natural areas, remember to dress for the weather, bring a whistle, food, water, and tell others where you are going. In this instance, preparation contributed to a positive outcome.
Search And Rescue Locates Lost Mushroom Picker (Photo)
- 11/25/25
On Sunday, November 23, 2025, at just before 3:00 p.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 text to dispatch for a distressed mushroom picker in a remote area of Washington County near the Barney Reservoir.
Deputies learned that a 72-year-old woman was out collecting seasonal chanterelle mushrooms when she entered an area from which she was unable to get out due to slick terrain and a steep incline. Deputies from both the Washington and Yamhill County Sheriff’s Offices responded to aid in locating the woman.
Initial search efforts were unsuccessful, and additional resources were called to assist, including Search and Rescue (SAR) teams from Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, and Columbia Counties, along with Hillsboro and the Oregon State Police. Searchers also deployed drones and a K9.
Several hours into the search, the woman was located by using GPS coordinates from the drone and ground searchers. The woman used a whistle she had brought with her to help guide the search teams to her location. SAR used a rope system to reach her and assist her in getting back out.
Aside from being cold, wet, and thirsty, the woman did not report any injuries.
The Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the collaborative efforts of all the responders and thankful that the woman was safely located. If you choose to adventure into natural areas, remember to dress for the weather, bring a whistle, food, water, and tell others where you are going. In this instance, preparation contributed to a positive outcome.
