New York State Forest Rangers carried out extensive prescribed burns across six counties and responded to emergency calls, continuing their crucial role in managing public lands and safeguarding residents.
In 2024 alone, Forest Rangers conducted 362 search and rescue missions, battled 122 wildfires across nearly 6,500 acres, and participated in 60 prescribed burns rejuvenating over 1,155 acres. These efforts also led to more than 1,200 tickets and arrests.
“Whether conducting a search and rescue call or responding to a wildfire burning out of control, Rangers are always ready when emergencies strike,” said DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “Every day and in all conditions, Forest Rangers demonstrate their expertise and leadership in protecting the public and State lands.”
From April 14 to 18, Rangers and partner agencies executed prescribed burns in Albany, Jefferson, Livingston, Onondaga, Steuben, and Suffolk counties. The burns spanned over 366 acres and were aimed at improving wildlife habitats and reducing wildfire risk.
In Albany, 22 acres of the Albany Pine Bush were treated. In Jefferson County, 37 acres at Ashland Flats Wildlife Management Area in Lyme were burned. Onondaga County saw the largest area treated, with nearly 155 acres in the Three Rivers Wildlife Management Area in Lysander. In Steuben County, 14 acres in Cameron State Forest were included. Suffolk County’s Otis Pike Pine Barrens in Riverhead saw more than 57 acres managed over three days, while Livingston County had 81 acres burned in the Sonyea State Forest.
Officials stressed that these controlled burns are conducted only under favorable conditions and are essential for habitat restoration and wildfire prevention, particularly while the statewide residential brush burning ban remains in effect.
The eastern region of the state remains at “high” fire danger status, according to the DEC. Residents can track updates using the department’s online fire danger map.
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