
New York Forest Rangers head to California wildfires

NEW YORK & CALIFORNIA — GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL on Thursday announced the deployment of 10 New York Department of Environmental Conservation forest rangers to Los Angeles to assist in battling the ongoing wildfires devastating Southern California. The team departed Albany on Thursday for a two-week mission.
The wildfires, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, have claimed an estimated 25 lives, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and scorched more than 40,000 acres since igniting on Jan. 7.
“New York is always ready to assist when called upon,” said Hochul. “Our expert Forest Rangers are on the front lines and will do what they can to help communities affected by this extraordinary devastation. I look forward to their safe return.”
DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar praised the Rangers’ willingness to respond swiftly, adding, “Their expertise will not only aid efforts in California but also enhance their skills for managing wildfires in New York.”
New York has deployed wildland firefighting crews since 1979 under interstate and international agreements. Travel and personnel costs are reimbursed by the U.S. Forest Service.
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