Park ranger program launching in Newport this summer

NEWPORT, R.I. (WLNE) — The City of Newport plans to launch a new park ranger program this summer to serve and inform the public.

The rangers will be active in the city’s network of public parks to offer a helping hand to visitors as well as look out for hazards and other issues.

Communications Officer Tom Shevlin said the program is the first of its kind in the state, and the rangers will serve as ambassadors for the city, promoting positive uses in parks and building relationships with visitors.

The rangers will not be law enforcement officers, he added.

“They’ll be keeping an eye out for potential problems such as unleashed dogs, noise violations, and illegal dumping, and will act as a conduit between the public and law enforcement should the need arise,” Shevlin said.

The rangers will monitor parks from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. throughout the summer season.

The city is taking applications for the program at www.CityofNewport.com.