Helping Before Help is Needed

Hutch Hutchins and the Power of Preventive Search and Rescue at Sleeping Bear Dunes

Written by Madison Partak

PSAR Volunteer “Hutch”

If you’ve ever hiked the Dune Climb and been greeted by a warm smile and a helpful voice in an orange PSAR shirt, chances are you’ve met Hutch Hutchins. A long-time volunteer with Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes, Hutch has been with the Preventive Search and Rescue (PSAR) program since it began — and his passion for helping people has made him a quiet hero on the trails.

What is PSAR?

PSAR stands for Preventive Search and Rescue, and its mission is simple but strong: to keep visitors safe before emergencies happen. Volunteers like Hutch are stationed at popular — and sometimes hazardous — park sites like the Dune Climb or Overlook #9. They offer water, guidance, health advice, and a friendly face to those tackling the sometimes tricky terrain of the lakeshore.

In fact, since PSAR began, 911 calls at high-traffic areas like the Dune Climb have decreased significantly. That’s because PSAR volunteers step in early — checking on visitors who look exhausted, reminding families to hydrate, helping lost kids reconnect with their groups, and providing accurate directions to trail markers or rest spots. While signs and maps are available, as Hutch says, “Even though information is available online, people don’t always look for it. That’s where we are able to step in and help.”

Getting to Know Hutch

Helping others has always been at the heart of Hutch’s life. Before retiring to Northern Michigan, he spent his career as an OB-GYN physician. "I was motivated to help and serve people,” he says. “Being part of PSAR gave me a chance to be like a physician again and use those skills. I miss that collaboration in a teaching environment. I like to teach others and PSAR allowed me to do that.”

He first got involved through the Track Chair Program, which allows people with limited mobility to explore the park’s trails. That experience — meeting people with disabilities and giving them access to nature — was deeply fulfilling. “It was unique,” Hutch reflects. “I got to know people and help them. That stayed with me.”

The Beginning of PSAR

When PSAR launched, Hutch quickly found his perfect fit at the Dune Climb. He loved the opportunity to walk the trail, talk with visitors from all over the world, and offer health-related advice to older hikers. He often set up camp near signpost #3 under the shade trees, keeping an eye on tired hikers and families. “It was a combination of things where I felt like I was doing some good,” he says.

PSAR does more than prevent emergency calls — it serves as a bridge between the park and its visitors. Hutch sees himself as a friendly ambassador for Northern Michigan, a guide who not only keeps people safe but helps them appreciate the beauty and challenge of Sleeping Bear Dunes.

He recalls teaching young families how far to hike, recommending scenic stopping points, and even reminding people of the laws in the park to protect others and the nature surrounding them. “We help enforce the laws just by informing people,” he explains. “We’re out there, easy to spot in our orange shirts or vests, and always ready to help.”

PSAR volunteer at Post #3 on the Dune Climb

PSAR Today

Since its humble beginnings with just a dozen volunteers, the PSAR team has grown — and there’s still room for more. If you enjoy being outdoors, like talking with people, want to support others’ wellbeing or just want to give back in a meaningful way, then PSAR might be a great way for you to get involved. 

“You get to be outside, exercise, and be of service to others,” Hutch says. “Plus, you can be part of something that genuinely makes a difference.”

Whether he’s snowshoeing Alligator Hill in the winter or chatting with a family climbing the dunes in summer, Hutch’s joy is clear. “I like being of service to other people and I like being outdoors. My wife once told me early in my career, ‘You need to smile more.’ I think I’ve taken that to heart here in the park.”

If you're interested in joining PSAR or any of the volunteer opportunities with Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes — including the Track Chair program, Adopt-a-Beach, or trail maintenance — visit friendsofsleepingbear.org or talk to any PSAR volunteer in the park. Just look for the orange shirt, big smile, and maybe a little shade under signpost #3.