The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers have reported their activities for the week, highlighting their ongoing work in search and rescue operations, wildfire response, and public outreach efforts across the state.
As of July 1, 2025, Forest Rangers have completed 139 search and rescue missions, extinguished 82 wildfires covering nearly 705 acres, and participated in 56 prescribed fires that rejuvenated 1,514 acres of land. In the previous year, Rangers responded to 362 search and rescue incidents, put out 122 wildfires affecting almost 6,500 acres, and conducted 60 prescribed burns over more than 1,155 acres. Their enforcement efforts in 2024 also led to more than 1,200 tickets and arrests.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton stated: “DEC’s Forest Rangers bravely protect State-owned and managed lands, as well as the people who use them. Whether conducting a search and rescue call or responding to a wildfire, Rangers are always ready when emergencies strike. This is even more critical with a temporary statewide burn ban in effect through Oct. 15 and the ongoing drought warnings and watches. Every day and in all conditions, Forest Rangers demonstrate their expertise and leadership in protecting the public and State lands, serving as role models for the next generation of environmental stewards. DEC encourages interested New Yorkers to visit DEC’s website to learn how to become the next New York State Forest Ranger.”
Recent incidents included responses to wildland fires in several counties. In Otsego County’s Town of Hartwick on September 30, Ranger Laymon contained a small fire caused by burning leaf litter. In Orange County’s Town of Tuxedo on October 1, multiple agencies worked together to control a fire adjacent to Sterling Forest; crews had the fire mostly contained by October 6 but continued monitoring hot spots.
Rangers also managed wilderness rescues throughout Essex County and beyond. On Cascade Mountain in Keene, four rangers assisted an injured hiker on October 1; after further injury during descent, New York State Police assisted with an aerial hoist rescue. Other rescues included assisting hikers suffering from exhaustion or injury in North Elba and additional locations.
Prescribed burns were conducted at Albany Pine Bush on October 2 and 3 with collaboration among Forest Rangers, DEC staff from various divisions, state park officials, and Albany Pine Bush staff. Prescribed fire is described by the agency as an important tool for habitat management that helps prevent invasive species spread and reduces wildfire risks.
Forest Rangers also participated in community outreach events such as harvest festivals in Dutchess County’s Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center and Essex County’s Town of Newcomb. They used these opportunities to educate visitors about their work and promote fire safety.
A wilderness search took place in Delaware County on October 4 for a missing elderly person with early signs of dementia; multiple agencies assisted with locating the individual who was found conscious but dehydrated.
Other incidents included containing wildfires in Tully (Onondaga County) where local farm brush fires escaped containment—resulting in tickets issued—and responding to reports of hikers needing medical assistance due to injuries or illness.
Rangers also joined hundreds at the Out of the Darkness Walk in Highland (Ulster County) on October 5 for suicide prevention awareness efforts.
The DEC recommends hikers prepare adequately before entering backcountry areas by consulting resources such as Hike Smart NY or contacting local rangers for guidance.
For emergencies requiring ranger assistance—including search and rescue or wildfire reporting—the public can call 833-NYS-RANGERS or dial 911 for urgent situations.
