PSAR Volunteer Story: Eric Davis
by Kaitlyn G. Kausler
When you visit Sleeping Bear Dunes, you may notice volunteers in bright orange gear, stationed at the base of the Dune Climb or along the Scenic Drive. These are members of the Preventive Search and Rescue (PSAR) team who are dedicated volunteers who help visitors stay safe while enjoying the park.
Eric Davis is one of those volunteers, but you won’t find him in orange. Instead, Eric takes a quieter, more personal approach to PSAR. Rather than waiting at high-traffic spots, he can often be found along the Park’s many trails, talking individually with hikers and visitors. With guidance and a friendly presence, Eric helps educate people about trail safety, hydration, and how to prepare for changing conditions, all to prevent accidents before they happen.
His method is all about connection, conversation, and guiding people toward better decision-making while out on the trails. He educates visitors about trail awareness and the importance of communication, things like knowing your route, bringing enough water, and understanding the physical demands of different hikes. “You have to anticipate what someone might need, or what they haven’t considered yet. Sometimes it’s just about asking the right question before they start a hike,” says Eric.
In addition to his conversations with visitors, Eric plays an important behind-the-scenes role. He reports on trail conditions, noting everything from downed branches to erosion risks and washouts, essential information that helps the park maintain safe and accessible trails for everyone.
What sets Eric apart is his perspective. He frequently visits other parks across Michigan, giving him a strong basis for comparison. This broader view helps inform his approach and fuels his commitment to improving how things are done. “Do things differently, do what works, and find other ways to make it even better,” he says. This is the best way to improve upon something.
For Eric, volunteering with PSAR is deeply personal. “This gives me a chance to actively support what I believe in, stewarding the environment and doing it within an organization,” he shares. “That’s why I’m a part of Friends.”
Whether he’s quietly walking a trail or helping someone rethink their hike, Eric Davis embodies the spirit of PSAR, proactive, thoughtful, and always working to keep people safe while helping them connect more deeply with the park.
If you want to learn more about joining Eric on the PSAR team, head to the PSAR Program page to learn more or register to become a new volunteer today!