DEC Forest Rangers and Econ Police Rescue Moose Trapped in Ice in Hamilton County

All New Yorkers Encouraged to Practice Ice Safety

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers and Environmental Conservation Police Officers (ECOs) this week rescued a moose that had broken through the ice and into the icy waters of Lake Abanakee in frigid waters in Hamilton County.

On Jan. 16, Division of Law Enforcement Lieutenant Higgins and ECO Brassard responded to Lake Abanakee in the town of Indian Lake after receiving a report of a moose that had broken through the ice. The Officers arrived and observed the moose in the lake, surrounded by ice, and unable to get out of the water. The Officers spoke to DEC Operations employees who advised a bystander had watched the moose walk out onto the lake and fall through approximately 200 feet from the town beach.

Forest Rangers Nahor, Savarie, and Baldwin arrived a short time later to assist with rescuing the moose. Dressed in cold-water rescue gear, the Officers ventured out onto the ice. Ranger Nahor began cutting a channel with his chainsaw while Lieutenant Higgins cleared the ice blocks, creating a pathway for the moose to free itself. Rangers Savarie and Nahor then guided the moose to shallow water near the shore. Once free from the water, the moose made several attempts to get up before regaining its strength, standing up on the stable ice, and walking off into the woods.

Director of DEC's Division of Law Enforcement Karen Przyklek said, "With little time to spare, our ECOs and Forest Rangers jumped into action without hesitation, braved the elements, and risked their own safety to rescue an animal in need. I'm proud of the work they've done to bring about such a positive outcome."

Acting Director of DEC's Division of Forest Protection Drew Cavanagh said, "I applaud our Forest Rangers and ECOs on their coordinated and heroic efforts to rescue an animal that was clearly in distress. It's a testament to the professionalism, resilience, and dedication of these two Police forces to New York's natural resources and wildlife."

The moose, later identified as a bull moose that had dropped its antlers, was reportedly in the frigid waters for approximately two hours.

VIDEO of the dramatic rescue and interviews with the Officers involved here.

DEC reminds ice anglers to be safe when venturing onto the ice this season, especially given recent variations in weather conditions. Outdoor enthusiasts considering ice fishing should always be aware of essential safety guidelines and make sure ice is thick enough before heading out. Before leaving shore, ice anglers are advised to check the thickness of ice. Four inches of solid, clear ice is usually safe for anglers accessing ice on foot. However, ice thickness can vary between waterbodies and even within the same waterbody, increasing the need to ensure thickness. Anglers should be particularly cautious of areas of moving water and around boat docks and houses where bubblers may be installed to reduce ice from forming. Checking the ice can easily be done with an auger or "spud bar" (a long, metal tool with a chisel on one end) at various spots. Local bait and tackle shops are a great resource for finding out where there is safe ice and what anglers are catching. In addition, fishing with family and friends is also encouraged for safety.