Montgomery Whitewater Lands $50K Grant for Swiftwater Rescue Training

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Mid-South Resource Conservation and Development Council awarded Montgomery Whitewater a $50,000 grant to advance its Swiftwater Rescue training program, officials announced Wednesday at the facility on 1100 Maxwell Blvd.[1][2] This phase-two funding enables in-house training for first responders, military personnel, and rescue professionals in a controlled, engineered environment featuring an Olympic-caliber pumped whitewater course.[2][4] The program teaches participants how to self-rescue and save others from dangerous water currents, addressing a critical need heightened by recent Southeast flooding.[1] The press conference, hosted by the Montgomery Whitewater Foundation, underscored the regional urgency for such preparedness as Alabama faces increasingly frequent flood events.[2][5] Montgomery Whitewater's unique setup provides consistent, repeatable swiftwater conditions ideal for certified agencies, setting it apart from traditional training sites.[4] Megan McKenzie, chief marketing manager, was the contact for the event, reachable at [email protected] or (334) 746-6530.[2] Local officials highlighted the grant's timely impact, noting Alabama's vulnerability to heavy rains and river overflows that have strained emergency responses in recent years.[1] By expanding access to professional-grade training, Montgomery Whitewater positions Central Alabama as a hub for swiftwater expertise, potentially saving lives during future disasters.[3]