Behind the Badge: The Work of DCNR Rangers

“There’s a lot of days where I kind of have to pinch myself and realize, ‘Oh, I’m out hiking a trail that somebody probably took off work to go hike, but I get to do it and get paid.’”

From boat patrols to timber theft investigations, DCNR Rangers Sam and Dani chat with our host Marci Mowery about the diverse and demanding world of protecting Pennsylvania’s parks and forests and their visitors.

With over 30 years of combined experience, these stewards balance multiple roles—educator, law enforcement officer, conservationist, and much more. Whether it’s helping lost hikers find their way, protecting endangered plant species, or managing crowds during busy holiday weekends, no two days are alike.

Sam patrols 97,000 acres of Rothrock State Forest with just one partner, relying on a network of regular visitors as “eyes and ears.” Meanwhile, Dani navigates the “urban jungle” of Codorus State Park, where eagles nest and visitors need guidance on everything from alcohol restrictions to wildlife encounters.

Both rangers believe that enforcement often starts with education, as visitors navigate varying regulations across states and between parks and forests. Despite challenges—from public misconceptions about law enforcement to physically demanding rescues in 95-degree heat—they find deep satisfaction in protecting resources for future generations and their visitors.

To aspiring rangers, they encourage being mission-driven, physically fit, and prepared for weekends, holidays, and maybe even the odd four-foot snakebite story from an adventurous young visitor!

Key Topics:

• A Ranger’s Daily Responsibilities: Parks vs. Forests (5:40)
• Balancing Education and Enforcement (8:53)
• Memorable Interactions and Stories (11:11)
• Rangers’ Role in Conservation (16:06)
• Challenges of Modern Ranger Work (21:35)
• Search and Rescue Prevention Tips (24:30)
• Advice for Aspiring Rangers (26:07)

 
Resources:

• To learn more about Ranger careers, click here
• Codorus State Park
• Rothrock State Forest
• DCNR Ranger Coloring and Activity Book (English)
• DCNR Ranger Coloring and Activity Book (Spanish)