The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers have continued their statewide efforts in search and rescue operations, wildfire response, and public outreach during the past week. According to DEC data, as of July 1, 2025, Forest Rangers have conducted 139 search and rescue missions, extinguished 82 wildfires that burned nearly 705 acres, and participated in 56 prescribed fires covering 1,514 acres this year. In 2024, Rangers responded to 362 search and rescue calls, put out 122 wildfires across almost 6,500 acres, took part in 60 prescribed burns on over 1,155 acres, and were involved in more than 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,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “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 include several wildland fires: On September 30 in Hartwick (Otsego County), Ranger Laymon extinguished a quarter-acre fire; on October 1 near Sterling Forest (Orange County), multiple agencies contained a fire that remains partially controlled; on October 1 in Newcomb (Essex County), crews stopped a ground fire threatening a camp; on October 3 in Tully (Onondaga County), rangers put out escaped brush piles on private land; and on October 5 near Piseco Lake (Hamilton County), teams continue to work on containing a larger blaze covering about 37 acres.
There were also multiple wilderness rescues. Notably, on Cascade Mountain (Essex County) on October 1, four rangers assisted an injured hiker who was later airlifted by State Police. Other rescues included helping hikers with medical issues or injuries at Wittenberg Mountain (Ulster County), Haystack Mountain (Essex County), Black Dome (Greene County), Escarpment Trail (Greene County), Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Area (Dutchess County), Cranberry 50 trail (St. Lawrence County), and other locations.
Prescribed burns were conducted at Albany Pine Bush (Albany County) with participation from several agencies. These controlled fires are used to improve habitat conditions for wildlife and reduce fuel loads that can lead to larger wildfires. The DEC only carries out these burns when conditions meet safety requirements—even during burn bans—due to their importance for land management.
Forest Rangers also engaged with communities through events such as the Stony Kill Farm Environmental Education Center Harvest Festival in Dutchess County and Newcomb’s fall harvest picnic in Essex County. They provided information about their roles and promoted forest fire prevention alongside Smokey Bear.
Additionally, rangers participated in suicide prevention efforts by joining hundreds at the Out of the Darkness Walk at Walkway Over the Hudson to raise awareness about mental health challenges faced by first responders.
The DEC advises those heading into backcountry areas to be prepared with essentials like headlamps and maps rather than relying solely on phones for navigation or light sources due to battery limitations.
For emergencies involving lost persons or wildfires, individuals can contact Forest Rangers directly via the state hotline or by calling emergency services.
