New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers responded to a wide range of incidents last week, including wilderness rescues, search operations, and public education, while also mourning the passing of one of their own.
The week included multiple search-and-rescue missions, outreach events, and law enforcement support across the state. DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton praised the rangers’ work, saying, “Forest Rangers bravely protect State-owned and managed lands, as well as the people who use them.”
Honoring a fallen ranger
The DEC paid tribute to Assistant Forest Ranger Brendan Jackson, who passed away while camping earlier this month. Jackson, 42, had served with the agency since 2008 and was recognized for his work in the Adirondacks and his commitment to public education and safety.
Rescues and responses
On June 25, in Ulster County’s Town of Denning, Ranger Stratton treated a Brooklyn hiker who fell at the Blue Hole and sustained head injuries. That same day, Rangers visited Webster Montessori Elementary School in Monroe County to teach students about firefighting and safety.
In Saratoga County, 25 Rangers completed rope rescue training at Moreau State Park on June 26 and 27, including high-angle techniques used frequently in backcountry emergencies.
On June 27, in Lewis County, a 61-year-old horseback rider from New Hampshire was thrown and stepped on by a horse. Rangers and local emergency crews transported the injured rider to Wynn Hospital.
Later that day, Forest Rangers helped Fishkill Police track down two fleeing suspects in Dutchess County’s Baxtertown Woods. With drone assistance, both suspects were located and taken into custody.
In Ontario County on June 28, Rangers joined a search for a car crash victim who fled into the woods. The subject was found with serious injuries and handed off to emergency responders and New York State Police.
Additional rescues took place on June 29, including on Hunter Mountain in Greene County, where a dehydrated hiker was assisted, and in Delaware County’s Dry Brook Ridge Wild Forest, where an injured hiker was carried out and flown to Albany Medical Center.
Stay prepared
DEC urges all hikers to plan ahead, bring enough food and water, and review the Hike Smart NY guidelines to avoid preventable emergencies.
In 2024, Forest Rangers responded to 362 search and rescue incidents, extinguished 122 wildfires, and issued over 1,200 tickets and arrests. For non-emergency assistance or location-specific information, call 833-NYS-RANGERS or visit the DEC Forest Ranger roster.
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