In the first half of 2025, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers responded to a range of emergencies and outreach activities across the state. According to DEC data, rangers carried out 139 search and rescue operations, extinguished 82 wildfires that burned almost 705 acres, and took part in 56 prescribed burns covering over 1,500 acres. In the previous year, their work included 362 search and rescue missions, putting out 122 wildfires affecting nearly 6,500 acres, participation in 60 prescribed fires rejuvenating more than 1,150 acres, as well as involvement in over 1,200 tickets and arrests.
“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,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “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.”
Forest Rangers were active at several community events during October. On October 15 in Poughkeepsie (Dutchess County), Rangers Pries and Russo spoke with Marist University students at a career fair about responsibilities associated with being a ranger. Two days later in Kent (Putnam County), they participated in a trunk or treat event attended by more than 800 children.
Rangers also conducted wilderness rescues throughout the state. On October 20 near Wilmington (Essex County), Ranger H. Praczkajlo assisted a lost hiker on Ester Mountain who was cold and wet with limited phone battery; the ranger provided warm clothing before escorting them safely down the trail. In Keene (Essex County) on October 21, Ranger Lewis located two missing hikers on Wolfjaw Mountain after their children returned ahead of them.
On October 23 in Red Hook (Dutchess County), Rangers Pries and Russo attended a local career fair to inform students about ranger duties and demonstrate equipment used during rescues.
Further north on October 25 near Harrietstown (Franklin County), three hikers from Buffalo were assisted after becoming cold and wet between Seward and Donaldson Mountains; one was experiencing leg cramps. The same night in Hopkinton (St Lawrence County), rangers joined state police searching for a missing hunter who was later found by family members.
On October 26 near Hancock (Delaware County), Ranger Cleinman located two lost hikers off-trail at Jensen’s Ledges using GPS coordinates obtained over the phone.
The DEC recommends outdoor enthusiasts prepare properly before entering backcountry areas by consulting resources such as Hike Smart NY or regional backcountry information pages on its website. They also advise carrying essential gear including moisture-wicking clothing instead of cotton.
For emergencies involving search and rescue or wildfires on state land, individuals can contact Forest Rangers at 833-NYS-RANGERS or call 911 for urgent help. Contact details for rangers by region are available on the DEC website.
