Throughout most of the USA, wild land SAR has been free, except for really egregious conduct, along the lines of NPS policy. In many, if not most, jurisdictions, volunteers contribute most of the time and labor, holding down costs.

For several decades, I offered my services freely to local SAR efforts, which also included educational efforts which concentrated on younger kids.

Showing people the right way is much more effective than charging them for services. Are you charged directly for fire and police protection in your community?

The articles referenced were behind a paywall and hence, not read