The Louisiana State Guard (State Defense Force – LASG) continues to strengthen its emergency response capabilities by embracing cutting-edge technology designed for disaster environments. On April 5, the LASG’s 1st Area Command participated in a specialized Sherp vehicle training and demonstration, hosted by Sherp of Louisiana at Jackson Barracks in New Orleans.
The event was part of the Guard’s ongoing efforts to explore new tools that can enhance mission success during emergencies, particularly those caused by Louisiana’s frequent hurricanes and flood events. The Sherp, a fully amphibious all-terrain vehicle (ATV), was the centerpiece of the demonstration and drew significant interest from Guard members.
Sherp vehicles are designed to perform in some of the most challenging environments on earth, including deep floodwaters, thick mud, snow, and debris-filled terrain. Their unique construction includes oversized 800-liter (210-gallon) tires, which together provide over 3,200 kilograms (7,000 pounds) of displacement. This allows the Sherp to float and maneuver across water—even with zero tire pressure or without all four wheels. The vehicle’s hermetically sealed body further ensures that no water enters the crew compartment, offering a high level of safety for occupants during flood operations.
“The Sherp gives us access to areas that would otherwise be unreachable by traditional vehicles,” said Captain Daniel Stoute, Headquarters Company Commander for the Louisiana State Guard. “This kind of capability can save lives during high-water events and help us respond faster and more effectively in times of crisis.”
Guard members at the demonstration were given hands-on experience with the Sherp’s controls and observed its agility in simulated rescue scenarios. The event offered valuable insight into how such a vehicle could be integrated into real-world emergency operations.
Beyond its rugged exterior, the Sherp is praised for its simplicity and reliability. Its design emphasizes ease of maintenance, requiring only a minimal set of tools and no specialized mechanical training for repairs. Its suspension and transmission systems are stripped of many traditional elements, increasing operational durability in the field.
For a state like Louisiana—where rising waters, hurricanes, and severe storms are a regular occurrence—the adoption of amphibious assets like the Sherp represents a proactive approach to disaster preparedness. Whether navigating flooded neighborhoods to rescue stranded civilians or transporting emergency supplies through impassable terrain, the Sherp offers a unique and powerful solution.
As the Louisiana State Guard continues to evolve its capabilities, integrating vehicles like the Sherp could prove vital in supporting large-scale flood rescue efforts and search and rescue operations during natural disasters. These innovations not only enhance mission readiness but also ensure that Louisiana communities are better protected when every second counts.
Jackson Barracks, New Orleans, LA – April 5, 2025 – The Louisiana State Guard’s 1st Area Command participated in a Sherp vehicle training and demonstration hosted by Sherp of Louisiana at Jackson Barracks in New Orleans. The event showcased the capabilities of the Sherp all-terrain vehicle and its potential to support emergency response operations across the state.
Sherp vehicles are fully amphibious and engineered to operate in some of the most challenging environments, including deep floodwaters, thick mud, and debris-filled terrain. These features make the vehicle especially valuable for search and rescue missions during hurricanes and other flood-related disasters.
“The Sherp gives us access to areas that would otherwise be unreachable by traditional vehicles,” said Captain Daniel Stoute, Headquarters Company Commander, LASG. “This kind of capability can save lives during high-water events and help us respond faster and more effectively in times of crisis.”
The demonstration gave Guard members a close-up look at how the Sherp can be integrated into real-world emergency operations. With Louisiana’s ongoing vulnerability to hurricanes and flooding, the LASG remains committed to evaluating and adopting innovative resources to better serve the people of the state.
Source: Louisiana State Guard
