The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is providing $12.5 million in Waterway Improvement Fund grants to enhance and improve public boating access, facilities and navigation throughout the state.

This critical Fiscal Year 2019 funding will go toward 57 projects in 18 counties, from Garrett to Wicomico counties as well as Baltimore City.

On May 23, 2018, the Ridge Volunteer Fire Department was awarded $14,000 in matching funds to purchase a side scan sonar for our fire boat. A side scan sonar can be an invaluable tool when it comes to search & recovery applications. Many times the visibility for divers conducting a search is very poor, which makes it difficult for them to locate and positively identify a body.

By using a very high resolution side scan sonar system, rescue teams can obtain a near photo-like image of exactly what is lying on the lake/pond/ocean floor before entering the water. Once a potential target has been identified they can then deploy divers to confirm, thus saving valuable time. This device could save victims that are pulled quickly from the water in cold water situations.

We are very thankful to have received the grant to assist us with the purchase. RVFD plans to budget for the purchase of the side scan sonar for late FY 2020 or early FY 2021.