Sex, Drugs, and Rock 'n' Roll + Birds

Law Enforcement

Hello my name is Nicholas Fitzke and I am the ProRanger currently stationed at Fire Island National Seashore.

A lot of my time here at Fire Island has been spent with the Visitor and Resource Protection division. This is the division tasked with enforcing the laws of the park. Fire Island is unique in this regard because of its complex jurisdictions. There are many other law enforcement agencies that have roles to play on the island.

I can honestly say that my time with VRP has been the most fulfilling. I have had the opportunity to see and experience what being a law enforcement ranger is all about. They are essential for the continued existence of the park system. They play many roles including EMTs.

So what does a LE ranger's day look like at Fire Island? First you need some background on the island and the types of crimes and violations that occur here. The first and foremost problem that LE rangers deal with is nudity. Certain areas on the island were traditionally nude. Post hurricane Sandy there has been a shift to enforce the existing New York State laws regarding nudity on park grounds. This has caused some backlash from the nudist community but people are adjusting.

Another problem on the island is sex in public. There is a tract of land in the park where people like to sneak off to get jiggy in. This of course is illegal. Being park property it is up to the LE rangers to patrol the area and to discourage any persons trying to get it on.

Warning Sign

These two things in combination with medical emergencies, drug cases, and resource protection keep the rangers on the island very busy. It is very important to read and fallow all signage on the island. If there is a sign telling you not to do something... don't do it!

This is the life of a law enforcement ranger on Fire Island.

If you want to learn more about Fire Island National Seashore check out their website at: http://www.nps.gov/fiis/index.htm