Washington County Sheriff’s Dive Team receives $65,000 WCRF Grant

WASHINGTON — The Washington County Sheriff’s Search and Recovery Dive Team has received a $65,000 grant from the Washington County Riverboat Foundation to expand training and equipment for new divers, strengthening water rescue and recovery operations across southeast Iowa.

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The grant will support specialized training and the purchase of supplies for incoming team members. Sheriff’s officials say the funding will help the dive team respond more effectively to incidents involving waterways, including rivers, lakes and farm ponds that run throughout Washington County and neighboring areas.

“We are grateful to the Washington County Riverboat Foundation for their continued support of public safety in our county, and we thank WCRF for investing in our team,” the Washington County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.

The Search and Recovery Dive Team operates as a specialized unit within the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, providing underwater search and recovery services during emergencies and investigations. Dive teams often face hazardous conditions, including low visibility, cold water and strong currents, making advanced training and reliable equipment essential for safe and effective operations. Officials say the new funding will allow the team to better prepare new divers for those challenges.

The Washington County Riverboat Foundation announced the award as part of its fall grant cycle, highlighting the team’s role in regional public safety.

“WCRF is happy to share Washington County Sheriff's Search and Recovery Dive Team has been awarded a fall grant of $65,000 grant!” the foundation said. “This grant will fund training and supplies for new divers. The training and supplies will help increase the effectiveness of recovery operations in Washington County and neighboring communities. Congratulations and thanks for all you do to help keep our communities safe!”

The Riverboat Foundation serves as the nonprofit license holder for Riverside Casino & Golf Resort, which provides the foundation’s funding. Since its establishment, the foundation has distributed millions of dollars to support public safety, education, health care and community development projects throughout Washington County.

In 2025 alone, the foundation awarded 15 spring grants, 19 fall grants, eight municipal grants and four surprise grants, totaling $6,466,279. Since 2006, the organization has awarded more than $76 million to local communities and nonprofit organizations.

Sheriff’s officials said the latest grant will not only benefit Washington County residents but also strengthen mutual aid capabilities with surrounding jurisdictions. Dive team members often assist neighboring counties when specialized underwater recovery resources are needed, particularly during large-scale emergencies.

With the new funding in place, the Washington County Sheriff’s Search and Recovery Dive Team plans to begin training new divers and acquiring equipment in the coming months, continuing its mission to serve and protect communities across the region.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com