Out of Control Blaze in Ulster County Closes Minnewaska

An out of control fire has already consumed 300 acres in Ulster County. The governor has sent additional state emergency personnel to help contain the wildfire

The fire that started this weekend has taken over Sam's Point Preserve near Ellenville in Ulster County. According to a release by Governor Cuomo, state and local first responders are working to try and build a perimeter around the fire, which has already taken over an estimated 300 acres. The fire was continuing to move south on Sunday afternoon.

The Governor says

State emergency personnel have been working around the clock to contain this wildfire and protect the safety of New Yorkers... We continue to work with all local partners to stop this fire in its tracks, and I urge residents to stay clear of the affected area and remain alert and informed.

The Sam's Point Preserve is located in a remote section of the Shawangunk Mountains. Because of its elevation and mountainous terrain, emergency personnel have had an especially difficult time battling the blaze. Because of this, Sam's Point Preserve and Minnewaska State Park have been closed to visitors.

There has been no official cause announced for the fire, but a press release about the current emergency strongly denounces the open burning of debris, calling it the largest single cause of spring wildfires in the state.