New York Forest Rangers were busy across the state last week, responding to multiple rescues, a wildfire, and two fatal incidents.
Since the start of July, Rangers have conducted 139 rescues, fought 82 wildfires, and helped rejuvenate more than 1,500 acres through prescribed burns. The DEC says their work remains critical to protecting both public lands and the people who enjoy them.
Hiker injured at Kaaterskill Falls
On Aug. 22 in Greene County, a 21-year-old from Long Island fell down an embankment while walking to a swimming spot at Kaaterskill Falls. Forest Ranger Peterson and Assistant Ranger Massa treated cuts and bruises on the hiker’s face before walking them back to the trailhead.
Body recovered from Lower Saranac Lake
Later that evening in Franklin County, a 76-year-old man disappeared after jumping off a pontoon boat near Eagle Island on Lower Saranac Lake. A large team of Rangers, fire departments, and a New York State Police dive team joined the search. On Aug. 24, divers recovered the man’s body and turned it over to the county coroner.
Campfire sparks blaze in East Otto
On Aug. 23, a camper in Cattaraugus County reported a ground fire in East Otto State Forest. Rangers found a 40-square-foot fire caused by an escaped campfire. They dug fire lines and pumped water from a nearby creek, containing the blaze by early evening.
Multiple rescues in the Adirondacks
That same day, Rangers helped a 60-year-old hiker who fell on the Echo Cliff trail in Hamilton County. In Essex County, they splinted the ankle of a 29-year-old hiker on Algonquin Mountain and assisted another rescue at Marcy Dam, where a 69-year-old man was later pronounced dead despite life-saving efforts.
The DEC urges all hikers and campers to plan ahead and be prepared when heading into the backcountry. Anyone needing assistance can call 833-NYS-RANGERS or 911 in an emergency.
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