Regarding the 'charge for rescue' debate, everything jetact said is correct. Nearly all the resources are volunteer. The ground and communications crews are volunteers. The snow cat and driver are graciously donated by Timberline Lodge. The helicopters (when rarely needed) are covered by the Army's training budget. The only cost we taxpayers are footing is a couple of Sherrif's deputies who were already on duty anyway. Literally, there is ALMOST ZERO COST TO TAXPAYERS for rescues on Mount Hood.

The other note about closing the mountain when it gets too dangerous seems rediculous to me. Who's to say when it's too dangerous or not. What happens if they decide it's 'safe' and someone gets hurt anyway. It's wilderness people! Should we close the oceans when the waves get too big???

This was an accident and a tragedy. Rules, legislation, and bureaucracy are not the answer.