DEC Forest Rangers -- Week in Review

Recent Statewide Forest Ranger Actions

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers respond to search and rescue incidents statewide. Working with other state agencies, local emergency response organizations, and volunteer search and rescue groups, Forest Rangers locate, and extract lost, injured, or distressed people from across New York State.   

In 2023, DEC Forest Rangers conducted 370 search and rescue missions, extinguished 146 wildfires covering nearly 1,400 acres, participated in 52 prescribed fires that served to rejuvenate more than 1,000 acres of land, and worked on cases that resulted in hundreds of tickets and arrests.  

“Whether they are leading complex search and rescue incidents, suppressing wildfires, enforcing laws on State lands and easements, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards, or encouraging responsible recreation, Forest Rangers stand ready to help when called,” DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “Forest Rangers’ wide-ranging expertise and collaboration with local, State, and federal partners are instrumental in protecting New York’s public lands and the many visitors who use them.” 

Town of Hunter 

Greene County 

Wilderness Rescue: On Nov. 30 at 3 p.m., Ray Brook Dispatch received a call from a parent concerned about their son hiking Indian Head. Forest Ranger Peterson spoke to the 18-year-old from Long Island on the phone and the hiker indicated he was on a snowy trail that had not been packed down and was tired, wet, and cold. Ranger Peterson convinced the hiker to turn around and start heading back to the trailhead rather than attempting the summit. When Rangers Fox and Peterson successfully located the subject, his pants were frozen to his legs. Rangers treated the hiker for mild hypothermia and assisted him to the trailhead. Resources were clear at 5:35 p.m. 

The subject was hiking without snowshoes despite up to three feet of snow in some spots and did not have winter hiking boots, a hat, gloves, or moisture-wicking layers. Hikers are reminded to check weather and trail conditions and to always be prepared with the proper equipment before heading out. More information about winter hiking safety essentials can be found on DEC's webs