Completion of STARS’ multi-year initiative to renew its aging helicopter fleet is one step closer to becoming a reality, thanks to a $500,000 gift from BASF Canada Agricultural Solutions, announced today at the STARS base in Saskatoon.

The donation will be used by STARS for mission operations as well as to help purchase medically equipped Airbus H145 helicopters at a cost of $13 million each. The new helicopters will help STARS deliver vital care to patients across the Prairies and parts of British Columbia for the next 30 years or more.

“At BASF, we are committed to building safe and healthy communities across Canada, which is why supporting STARS was a natural fit,” said Jonathan Sweat, Vice President, BASF Canada Agricultural Solutions. “The investment we’re making today will ensure that farming communities across Western Canada continue to have access to critical care for years to come.”

“Thank you to BASF for your generous donation,” said Premier Scott Moe. “It is amazing to know that in those moments of crisis, such as an accident or medical emergency, the incredible team at STARS is able to provide their lifesaving services across Saskatchewan because of the incredible generosity we are seeing today.”

Saskatchewan grower Adair O’Grady is reminded of the importance of STARS and gifts like this one from BASF, as he looks forward to another season ahead. STARS was able to fight for Adair’s life by providing critical care and transport after he sustained life-threatening injuries while seeding in 2015.

“Thank you to the agricultural community for stepping up to support STARS,” said O’Grady. “If STARS wasn’t here, my outcome would have been totally different.”

STARS has been flying missions in the new Airbus H145 helicopters since mid-2019, thanks to government, community and corporate support of an ambitious capital campaign. The remainder of the new fleet is being implemented at all six of its bases this year.

“We’re so grateful for the support of our allies in the agriculture sector, as we serve the same areas they serve – where growers, suppliers and their families live, work and play,” said Andrea Robertson, STARS President and CEO.

“These new helicopters are a generational investment in our ability to fight for the lives of Western Canadians for decades to come, and the generous contribution from BASF will help ensure we can be there for the next patient who needs us. From the bottom of our hearts: thank you.”