About us.

We’re committed to the mission of underwater recovery, the families we serve, and the donors who make it possible.

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Two people in matching California rescue team jackets are working with equipment on a boat, with a large body of water and hilly shoreline in the background.

California Recovery Divers is comprised of avid divers and watermen who are current or former members of law enforcement, military, or fire teams. Our decades of experience and training brings a uniquely qualified skill-set to problems of underwater location and recovery. Our code of honor and respect for privacy enables us to give families answers privately and compassionately.

  • Technology: Our team has expertise in a wide range of technologies, including SCUBA, sonar (side scan, ROV, sector-scan), underwater communications, salvage, lift-bags, and more.

  • Training: We have training in evaluating underwater crime scenes as well as recovering important forensic items for law enforcement purposes. We're also highly trained in mission safety and risk assessment, and are equipped to evaluate most underwater recovery missions.

  • Law Enforcement Partnering: While we work as law enforcement divers in other contexts, we recognize that once law enforcement dive resources are exhausted families and individuals often still need closure or recovery services. We're available in most circumstances to provide these services.

  • Ethics and Principles: We never exploit a drowning tragedy to raise funds or create a social media event. Our principles of respect and ethics ensure that family’s privacy is maintained while coordinating with law enforcement for integrity and closure. Please see our FAQ page for more information about our services and mission. Our Code Of Honor page speaks to our beliefs and philosophy about our approach.

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Scott Harrison

Co-Founder · CRD member since 2017

15+ years in law enforcement public safety diving (as a diver and in leadership roles) · 35 years diving experience

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David McMurdie

Co-Founder · Board member · CRD member since 2017

20+ years in law enforcement public safety diving (as a diver and in leadership roles) · 30+ years diving experience · Many years volunteering with Sea Watch

A man wearing sunglasses, a blue cap with a yellow smiley face, and a life jacket on a boat, with water in the background.

Chris Appleton

Board Member · CRD member since 2017

10+ years in law enforcement public safety diving (as a diver and in a leadership support role) · 30 years diving experience

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Megan Metzger

CRD member since 2020

4 years in law enforcement public safety diving (as a diver and in a leadership support role) · 5+ years diving experience · Open Water Scuba Instructor · Technical diver

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Kenny Fraga

CRD member since 2023

17 years in law enforcement public safety diving (as a diver and in leadership roles) · 35+ years diving experience

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Patti Bauernfeind McMurdie

CRD member since 2023

15 years ultra-marathon swimmer · water safety evagelist

A young man sitting in a boat on a body of water during daytime, surrounded by trees and a clear blue sky.

Scott Olvera

CRD member since 2018

8 years in law enforcement public safety diving · 13 years diving experience · Active military

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Help us fulfill our commitment to this mission and the families we serve.

Purely Philanthropic. 100% Volunteer.