News Summary
Brendan Jackson, an assistant forest ranger, was found dead in Duck Hole, raising alarms about safety protocols for rangers after he went missing. His body, discovered over a week later, sparked criticism of the DEC’s response to missed check-ins and the need for better safety measures. A petition has gained traction, calling for improved protocols for forest personnel working in remote areas where communication is limited. The incident highlights ongoing issues of understaffing and response delays in emergency situations affecting rangers in the field.
New York – Brendan Jackson, a 42-year-old assistant forest ranger, was found dead at his tent site in Duck Hole, Franklin County, New York, on June 15, 2025. Jackson had gone missing after informing dispatch on June 7 that he would be out of communication range, failing to maintain further contact. His body was discovered more than a week later, raising serious concerns about the safety protocols for forest rangers.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) reported that Jackson’s body was located in a decomposed state, leading to scrutiny regarding the agency’s response to his absence. A forensic autopsy conducted after the discovery was inconclusive in determining the cause of death. The circumstances of Jackson’s disappearance and the subsequent delay in search efforts have sparked public outcry, with calls for enhanced safety measures for rangers working in backcountry areas.
After Jackson’s passing, a petition was initiated on Change.org, advocating for improved protocols within the DEC. By July 12, the petition had garnered nearly 5,000 signatures, underscoring widespread concern about the safety of forest rangers. As part of their duties, rangers like Jackson operate in remote locations, often requiring them to check in periodically for their safety.
On June 7, Jackson notified dispatch that he would be out of communication range, signaling the start of his time in the backcountry. However, he did not report in again, and it was not until June 14 that a friend raised concern over his silence. This prompted a search, ultimately leading to the tragic discovery of Jackson’s body the following day.
Concerned parties, including Jackson’s friends and fellow rangers, have criticized the DEC for what they view as insufficient response protocols in situations involving missed check-ins. One friend characterized the scenario surrounding Jackson’s disappearance as “100% preventable,” pressing for reforms in emergency response strategies to ensure the safety of forest personnel.
At the time of his death, Jackson had been working with the DEC as a seasonal assistant forest ranger since 2008. His responsibilities included trail work, public education initiatives, and patrolling extensive backcountry areas. In winter, he served as an interior caretaker at popular spots like Marcy Dam and Mount Colden, establishing a valuable connection to New York’s wilderness and outdoor community.
This incident comes during a busy summer season for the DEC, noted for multiple rescues carried out statewide by rangers. Discussions have emerged regarding the prevailing issues of understaffing within the agency, which has only 153 rangers managing over five million acres of public land. This strain on resources has led to concerns over the reliance on overtime, raising further questions about ranger safety during emergency situations.
Jackson held advanced degrees in mechanical engineering, forestry, and forest resource management. His loss has touched many in the backcountry and hiking community, prompting advocacy for better tracking systems and communication protocols among forest rangers. As discussions continue, the DEC has stated its commitment to reviewing its processes and implementing necessary enhancements to procedures following Jackson’s tragic passing.
While the DEC has expressed condolences for Jackson’s loss, it has not yet confirmed any specific plans to revamp safety protocols or staffing levels in response to this incident. The tragedy highlights a growing concern within the community about the need for improved safety measures and support systems for forest rangers, who often work in isolated and rugged environments.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Democrat and Chronicle: NY Forest Ranger Brendan Jackson Found Dead
- Adirondack Almanack: Open Letter Regarding Death of AFR Brendan Jackson
- People: NY Ranger Found Dead 8 Days After Going Missing
- Adirondack Daily Enterprise: Rangers Respond to Calls Amid Busy Summer
- Times Union: Forest Rangers Criticize DEC Access Roads
- Wikipedia: Forest Ranger
- Google Search: Forest Ranger Safety Protocols
- Google Scholar: Forest Ranger Safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Forest Rangers
- Google News: Forest Ranger Incident
