Grande Ronde Rappellers

​The Grande Ronde Rappellers are a 40-person crew of highly trained aerially-delivered firefighters sponsored by the U.S. Forest Service's Wallowa-Whitman National Forest and based in La Grande, Oregon. Previously two separate crews, the Sled Springs and Frazier Rappel crews were re-located from out-stations and consolidated in La Grande, OR. Between the two legacy crews that are now the Grande Ronde Rappellers, we have been delivering firefighters via rope and helicopter since 1992. The mission profile of our crew is primarily initial attack via rappel or helitack. The crew also engages in large fire support, search and rescue and prescribed fire assignments. We share responsibility for initial attack on the Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests with other local resources; however we are a national resource that responds to fires throughout the country. Our unique method of delivery and rigorous training requires candidates to be in top physical shape. If you are interested in learning more about what it takes to become a member of our crew, please see our employment page.