Amanda J. Purcell

Poughkeepsie Journal

ELLENVILLE - Governor Andrew Cuomo has directed additional state emergency personnel Sunday to a wildfire that has scorched nearly 300 acres at Sam's Point Preserve.

Approximately 80 firefighters and emergency medical technicians from thirteen local fire and EMS departments have responded. While more than 40 state personnel from five departments – the Department of Environmental Conservation, Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, state police, Office of Fire Prevention and Control, and Office of Emergency Management – have been called to help battle the blaze.

Firefighters are working to build a perimeter around the blaze, which continues to move south within the preserve, according to the governor’s office.

Sam's Point Preserve is located on the highest section of the Shawangunk Mountains. For safety reasons, both Sam's Point Preserve and Minnewaska State Park will remain closed Sunday.

Amanda J. Purcell: apurcell@poughkeepsiejournal.com; 845-437-4807; Twitter: @amandajpurcell