Arkville, NY – October, 25, 2024:  On October 12, a collaborative wilderness rescue effort on Overlook Mountain highlighted the important contributions of the Catskill Stewards Program to the Catskill Park.

The Catskill Center’s Catskill Ridge Runner, Dan Schroeder, worked alongside New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers, Woodstock Fire and Paramedics, and the New York State Police Aviation Unit in rescuing an injured hiker near Echo Lake. The team carried the hiker 300 feet uphill to a safe location, where a helicopter hoist transported them to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

While Catskill Stewards aren’t medical professionals or first responders, their training and presence on the trails are invaluable. Every Steward is Wilderness First Aid certified and on-site seven days a week from May through October. They collaborate closely with Forest Rangers to maintain safety and promote responsible outdoor recreation in the Catskills. In this recent rescue, the Stewards’ ability to quickly assess the situation, coordinate with the DEC, and provide on-the-ground support helped prevent further complications and ensured a smooth rescue operation.

Catskill Stewards are committed to ensuring that every hiker is prepared for their experience on the trails. Their efforts to engage with visitors before they set out, helps promote essential preparedness such as wearing proper footwear, carrying sufficient water, and understanding the difficulty levels of each trail. By sharing crucial information about trail conditions and readiness, Stewards aim to prevent accidents and minimize risks before visitors embark on their hikes. This proactive approach helps visitors enjoy their outdoor adventures safely and responsibly.

Reflecting on the role Stewards play in ensuring hiker safety, Dan Schroeder notes, “Being a Catskill Steward has given me a tremendous opportunity to meet and interact with people from all walks of life, from seasoned backpackers to first time hikers. People’s safety and well being on the trail is always a number one priority. This can include letting people know what to expect on their hike and how to properly prepare, and helping hikers with their injuries. I like to make myself as accessible and approachable as possible to better serve the hiking community.”

The Catskill Stewards program began in 2018 as a response to the challenges posed by overuse at the Peekamoose Blue Hole. Today, Stewards are stationed at four high-use sites and six Fire Towers throughout the Catskills, where they educate visitors about Leave No Trace principles and the significance of responsible recreation.

In moments of crisis, like the recent rescue on Overlook Mountain, the Catskill Stewards demonstrate their dedication not just to stewardship of the land, but to the diverse community of locals and visitors within the Catskill Park. Their training and close coordination with agencies like the DEC help make the Catskills a safer place for all.

If you find yourself lost, injured, or in an emergency while exploring the Catskills, remember to stay calm, stay put, and call for help. With cell service, dial 911 or the DEC Forest Ranger Dispatch at 833-NYS-RANGERS (833-697-7264).