[1] Forest Rangers fulfill the role of police officers, wildland firefighters and wilderness first responders.

Forest Rangers patrol 4,300,000 acres (17,000 km2) of Department-administered public lands and easements by vehicle, boat, ATV, snowmobile, aircraft, bicycle, foot, skis or snowshoes.

Rangers are often asked to assist other agencies with complex emergency or law enforcement incidents that have occurred in or near a forested area.

New NYS Forest Rangers must be a resident of New York, be at least 20 years old, possess a New York driver's license, be physically strong and active and able to pass a medical examination and physical ability test, and be able to pass a character background investigation and psychological evaluation.

[4] In May, 1885, Governor David B. Hill signed Chapter 283 into law, which authorized the appointment of the Fire Wardens.