Forest rangers spent several days last week responding to early season out of control fires in Middletown and Stamford in Delaware County, and also in Herkimer, Madison, Schoharie, and Chemung Counties resulting from burning debris in dry conditions.
On February 26, New York State Forest Rangers responded to fires caused by debris burning in Delaware County, and in Hamilton, in Madison County, a fire which grew to more than 20 acres.
On Feb. 27, Rangers responded to fires in Delaware and Schoharie counties, both caused by debris burning with wind carrying fire to grassy and wooded areas.
On Feb. 28, the Wellsburg Fire Chief requested Forest Ranger assistance with a wildfire believed to have been started by a person in the town of Ashland, Chemung County.
Ranger Staples walked the perimeter of the 12.5-acre fire to determine its size and issued tickets to the responsible party for endangering the property of another and setting a fire without clearing three feet of inflammable materials.
On Feb. 29, Rangers responded to a small fire in Herkimer County.
To date, the winter season has not provided typical snow cover across much of New York State, leaving dormant vegetation from last year’s growing season exposed and susceptible to the daily fluctuations of spring weather.
To help prevent wildfires, DEC is advocating extra vigilance before the statewide burn ban goes into effect on March 16.
Read past Forest Ranger search and rescue reports here.
