The next time you're lost and alone or injured in the backcountry, the people who come save you will be Custer County Search & Rescue volunteers.

Now, they need your help. The first Annual Friends of Custer County Search & Rescue Trail & Poker Ride begins Aug. 31, in Custer State Park. "Bring your horse, mule, friends and family and come out to support the mission of Custer County Search & Rescue," said Lesa McDermott, speaking for the group.

The Ride begins near the Custer State Park Airport and will be a scenic loop of about 8 miles around the lower entrance to the French Creek Natural Area.

Starting times are staggered between 8 a.m. and noon. A BBQ lunch will be available for riders and non-riders. Games, a silent auction and a variety of SAR equipment and vehicles will be on hand.

The fee is $15 to register for the ride before Aug. 26, and $20 for registrations thereafter. Registrations forms and more information can be found at http://www.custersdsar.com under the "friends" tab or by calling Rick March at 605-431-4097.

The FCCSR, Inc. is a charitable, non-profit that raises funds and builds public support for Custer County Search & Rescue (CCSAR), a volunteer organization dedicated to providing search, rescue and other emergency services to people in and around Custer County. CCSAR responds to 35 to 40 calls a year, including overdue hikers, wildland fire evacuations, and technical rescues. For more information, please visit http://www.custersdsar.com or "Like" us on FaceBook.

–Friends of Custer County Search and Rescue