New York Invests in Future of Environmental Protection

DEC launches training academies for conservation officers and forest rangers to safeguard state's natural resources

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has launched new training academies for environmental conservation officers (ECOs) and forest rangers, preparing up to 50 recruits for careers protecting the state's air, water, forests, fish and wildlife. The specialized and rigorous six-month academies emphasize environmental law, emergency response, physical conditioning, public communication and decision-making under pressure.

Why it matters

The investment in these training programs reflects New York's commitment to responsible stewardship of its natural resources, which is crucial for protecting public health, preserving outdoor traditions, and strengthening local economies. The recruits will join a storied tradition of conservation law enforcement dating back to the 1800s, but their preparation reflects the demands of modern times.

The details

The ECO training is underway at the DEC division of Law Enforcement Training Academy in Pulaski, while the forest ranger recruits begin at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry at the Huntington Wildlife Forest before moving to the ranger school in Wanakena and completing exercises at the State Preparedness Training Center in Oriskany. In 2025, ECOs responded to more than 35,000 complaints and issued over 15,000 tickets or arrests statewide, while forest rangers conducted 362 search and rescue missions, extinguished more than 200 wildfires, and carried out prescribed burns that rejuvenated nearly 1,650 acres of land.

  • The newest class of recruits emerged from nearly 10,000 applicants who took the most recent civil service exam in November 2025.
  • The six-month academies for ECOs and forest rangers began in February 2026.

The players

Amanda Lefton

DEC Commissioner who announced the launch of the new training academies.

NYSDEC

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, which oversees the training academies and the work of environmental conservation officers and forest rangers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“DEC forest rangers and ECOs each have a rich history of conservation and public protection in New York,”

— Amanda Lefton, DEC Commissioner (observertoday.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This investment in training for environmental conservation officers and forest rangers underscores New York's commitment to responsible stewardship of its natural resources, which is crucial for protecting public health, preserving outdoor traditions, and strengthening local economies.