THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES NEEDS YOU!
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources DCNR Rangers routinely patrol State Parks and State Forests, offer insightful answers to visitors' questions, and maintain calmness throughout the State Parks and State Forests. DCNR Rangers have full arrest powers on State Park and State Forest lands or water and carry side arms. However, they do not have jurisdiction overPennsylvania State Game Lands, which are patrolled by Wildlife Conservation Officers employed by the Pennsylvania Game Commission. DCNR Rangers enforce game laws as well as fishing and boating laws in State Parks and State Forests. However, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission is completely independent of the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Both agencies are independent of DCNR, but work in cooperation with each other.
DCNR Ranger responsibilities have these primary elements:
Law Enforcement - DCNR Rangers are the Primary Law Enforcement Officers for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. DCNR Rangers are commissioned by the Commonwealth as Police Officers of the City of a First Class. DCNR Rangers also enforce game, fishing, and boating laws.
Public Contact - Assisting visitors to make the outdoor experience safe, educational and enjoyable, while protecting the resources and the public who use them.
DCNR Rangers monitor the County 911 Dispatch Centers and are Emergency Responders for Rescue, Medical, Fire and Law Enforcement Emergencies within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Property. DCNR Rangers are called to assist other emergency services agencies off of State Parks and State Forest property when needed.
Emergency Medical Responder - Some DCNR Rangers are trained and certified Department of Health emergency medical responders capable of providing basic life support in an emergency. Some DCNR rangers have continued their education and training to be certified as Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics. All DCNR Rangers are trained in Basic First Aid and Professional Level CPR with the application and administration of Naloxone ( Narcan ) and AED’s.
Search & Rescue - DCNR Rangers coordinate Search & Rescue Operations within the State Parks and State Forests.
