Conservation Volunteering New York

Forest Regeneration Volunteer Workday

Forest Regeneration activities focus on the areas in and around the fenced 14-acre Forest and Wildflower Preserve located near the Dog Park on Bear Lane in the Reservation. On workdays, we focus on removing invasive plants like knotweed, garlic mustard and mugwort. Ages 12 to 15 are welcome with a parent or guardian present. Ages 15 and above require a signature by a parent or guardian on a [liability waiver](https://1drv.ms/b/c/d5fb9d3835660a78/IQCJO4IIj6GnQ6N4RuNC981xAYL2kFajs9_RL8f8V7NkhaM?e=5bd5oi); teenagers cannot just be dropped off. Please arrive 5 to 10 minutes early so we can hike into the Wildflower Preserve at 9 am sharp. Please dress appropriately! There is some poison ivy on trails and in work areas. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes or rain boots, bug spray, and layer as needed. We supply tools. If you have gloves, bring them or you can borrow a pair from us. Bring your own water. You can download a copy of our [liability waiver](https://1drv.ms/b/c/d5fb9d3835660a78/IQCJO4IIj6GnQ6N4RuNC981xAYL2kFajs9_RL8f8V7NkhaM?e=5bd5oi) to print, sign and bring to the event. We occasionally use photos of events in promotional materials and social media. By attending the event, I consent to photos of me being used in promotional materials or on social media. For information, contact program co-coordinators Rich Rockwell and Tom Pollard at forestregen@[somocon.org](http://somocon.org/) To see what's blooming in the Wildflower Preserve, check out our [Wildflower Preserve](https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/south-mountain-conservancy-wildflower-preserve) project on iNaturalist. We also have [South Mountain Reservation](https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/south-mountain-reservation) project there, that captures observations from the entire reservation. **Meet at the tool sheds at the Dog Park at 12 Bear Lane, Maplewood NJ** **GPS:** 40.739791, -74.289181

Pollinator Meadow Volunteer Workday

Pollinator Meadow activities will focus on pathway installation and invasive species sweep and removal. Work is strenuous to moderate. Ages 12 to 15 are welcome with a parent or guardian present. Ages 15 and above require a signature by a parent or guardian on a [liability waiver](https://1drv.ms/b/c/d5fb9d3835660a78/IQCJO4IIj6GnQ6N4RuNC981xAYL2kFajs9_RL8f8V7NkhaM?e=5bd5oi); teenagers cannot just be dropped off. Please arrive 5 to 10 minutes early so we can start promptly at 10 am. Please dress appropriately! Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes or rain boots. please no bug spray. Wear sunscreen and a hat. We supply tools. If you have gloves, bring them or you can borrow a pair from us. Bring your own water. You can download a copy of our [liability waiver](https://1drv.ms/b/c/d5fb9d3835660a78/IQCJO4IIj6GnQ6N4RuNC981xAYL2kFajs9_RL8f8V7NkhaM?e=5bd5oi) to print, sign and bring to the event. We occasionally use photos of events in promotional materials and social media. By attending the event, I consent to photos of me being used in promotional materials or on social media. For information, contact program coordinator Lori LaBorde at citizenscience@[somocon.org](http://somocon.org/) **Meet at the meadow after parking in Shady Nook Picnic Area.**

Turtle Back Loop w/ Donna Burkat, 4-5 miles

Meet 9:30 Turtle Back Rock Lot for a 4-5 mile loop at a moderate pace. Bring water, bug spray. Snack \*\*\* In registering for this or any other South Mountain Conservancy (SMC) programs in 2026 online, I hereby release and agree to hold the SMC, its volunteers, staff and Board of Trustees, harmless from and waive on behalf of myself, my heirs, and any personal representatives any and all causes of action, claims, demands, damages, costs, expenses and compensation for damage or loss to myself and/or property that may be caused by any act, or failure to act, in this SMC activity, or that may otherwise arise in any way in connection with any other SMC activity. I understand that this release discharges the SMC from any liability or claim that I, my heirs, or any personal representatives, may have against the SMC with respect to any bodily injury, illness, death, medical treatment, or property damage that may arise from, or in connection to, any SMC program. This liability waiver and release extends to the SMC along with Essex County and its staff and any other affiliated organization or SMC partner. I also understand that by signing below I approve the possible use of photos of me at this SMC event on social media or in promotional materials. **BY REGISTERING FOR THIS HIKE I attest I am in good health and attest that I: Am not experiencing any symptoms of illness such as cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.** **Am following all CDC recommended guidelines, above, and limiting my exposure to the novel coronavirus/COVID-19.** \# Arrival\, Weather\, & Cancellations Please come to the starting point 10 minutes ahead of time so the hike can start promptly. Times are our best estimates; they can vary depending on conditions, and the size and pace of a group. If you have any questions, call the leader. **Temperatures above 90 degrees and steady rain cancels, but intermittent drizzle does not. You will *not* be notified.** **Bring water. Wear hiking boots, preferably waterproof with good soles and traction devices and bring poles (optional).** Dogs are not allowed on hikes unless specified. These hikes are publicized first to SMC members and then advertised to the public one week before a hike. There is a limit of 25 participants, so pre-registration is required at least two days before a hike to sign the liability waiver online and allow lists to be sent to hike leaders. If you have registered and then find you cannot attend, please cancel your order online. **Repeated no shows without prior cancellation will result in removal from list.** **To become a current member visit [[https://www.somocon.org/membership/](https://www.somocon.org/membership/)]([https://www.somocon.org/membership/](https://www.somocon.org/membership/)).**

Central Park Bird Walk

Bird, butterflies and dragonflies. We will explore the southern portion of Central Park from 59th street to 67th street visiting the Pond, Hallet Preserve, Gapstow Bridge and Dene Slope looking for birds, butterflies and dragonflies. We will be walking on paved paths. To join please send $15/person via Venmo to @Deb-becker-8 or Paypal @ editconsul@aol.com

Kayaking in Red Hook with The Door

Jr. Naturalist Nature Walk at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center

**[>>MUST REGISTER HERE<<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001CELB/act00022173)** **Registration is open!** **You must register using the link above in order to participate this event. MeetUp is not used for activity registration.** **Note:** Children must be accompanied by an adult. Only 2 children per registration. **Jr. Naturalist Nature Walk (Ages 5–13)** Join us at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center for a guided Jr. Naturalist Nature Walk designed to spark curiosity and build a deeper understanding of the natural world. Led by an AMC naturalist, participants will learn how to identify common plants and trees, observe wildlife and their habitats, and recognize signs animals leave behind. Through guided discussion and hands-on exploration, kids will begin to understand how living things are connected and how ecosystems function. Along the trail, we’ll practice observation skills, ask questions, and investigate what we see—whether it’s examining leaves, listening for bird calls, or noticing changes in the landscape. This is a chance to slow down, think like a scientist, and build confidence exploring the outdoors. By the end of the walk, young naturalists will not only see the forest differently—they’ll better understand their role in caring for it. **What to bring:** Comfortable walking shoes, water, and curiosity **Length:** Approximately 1–1.5 hours Come ready to learn, explore, and connect—because understanding the outdoors is the first step to protecting it.

Morning Walk in Forest Park (Relaxed)

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001Byeb2AC/act00022120)** *Urban Walk: Morning Walk in Forest* *AMC Staff: Mari Ishihara (mishihara@outdoors.org)* **Date: Saturday - August 2, 2026** **Start: 9:00 AM \| Entrance at Park Lane & 80th Road \(Overpass Entrance\)\, New York City\. Restroom is near the playground by the entrance\.** ***Please meet the hiking guide Mari (she/her), at the park entarnce. She will be wearing a gray backpack and light gray hat.*** **End: 12:00 PM \| \(Same as starting location\)** Join us for a refreshing morning walk through Forest Park, a beautiful 500-acre park in Queens known for its scenic woodland trails and peaceful natural setting. We’ll walk approximately 3 miles on mostly flat or gently rising terrain at a relaxed pace of 2 mph or slower, enjoying the quiet beauty of the forest as the day begins. Starting your morning in nature is a wonderful way to care for both your body and mind. While city walks and gym workouts are great ways to stay active, spending time surrounded by trees offers a different experience—one that encourages you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. This walk is an opportunity to enjoy gentle exercise, fresh morning air, and good company while discovering one of New York City’s hidden woodland gems. We will discuss all things Appalachian Mountain Club as well as relevant activity related topics such as Leave No Trace. The route may be modified at the guide's discretion should it be necessary. Please be prepared to be outside in the Earth's elements for three hours and dress according for the activity and anticipated weather. Please bring water, food, sun hat, sun screen, insect repellent, sturdy footwear, as well as any other items you need to be safe and comfortable. If you have a medical condition that the trip guide needs to know about please email [mishihara@outdoors.org](mailto:mishihara@outdoors.org) prior to our time together. Accessible by public transportation. Take the E or F train to the Kew Gardens Station and walk 10 minutes to the park entrance. Register by Clicking **[HERE](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001Byeb2AC/act00022120)** *AMC Health Advisory: Covid and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in our communities. Do not participate in this activity if you, or someone who you have recently been in contact with, is either infected or symptomatic*

Kayak technique for intermediate volunteers

Learn or hone sea kayak skills. We may practice in the cove and/or take a short trip on the river. Be ready to swim! **PREREQUISITES TO RSVP** 1. *AT LEAST* 2 shifts in 2026 & 2. *At least* 2 trainings in 2026 & 3. *At least* 1 novice trip in which you stayed *toward* the front & 4. Demonstrate comfort with: **✔** Launching/landing independently **✔** Being rescued **✔** Sweep stroke **✔** Stern rudder **✔** Reverse paddling **COME PREPARED** * Appropriate quick drying clothing. You will get wet. Your feet and legs will be submerged * Change of clothes * Enthusiasm, patience, and questions * Water in a reusable bottle **TIMELINE** * 6:15 PM - Meet at HCCB. Prepare equipment. Safety briefing * 6:30 PM - Move boats to beach * 6:45 PM - Practice in the cove or take a little trip * 8:30 PM - Return to boathouse * 8:45 PM - Clean and put away equipment * 9:15 PM - Training ends HCCB is completely volunteer run. Our guides generously take time out of their busy schedules to run trips and trainings. If you RSVP yes, please consider this a **commitment to attend**. If you cancel at the last minute or no-show, you take a spot away from someone else or prevent a trip/training from happening. We understand that life happens, so if you must cancel close to the start of a trip or training, please change your RSVP to “Not Going” and message the host(s) or comment in the chat. Here are our guidelines about cancelations and no-shows: * For a trip, please cancel **prior to 8:00 PM the day before** the trip. * For a training, please cancel **at least 6 hours** before the training. * If you do not cancel before the cancelation cutoff time, you will be marked as a no-show. * Hosts reserve the right to deprioritize you on waitlists after the second no-show of the year. **\-\-\-** *Sunset 8:20 PM* HRE 2026-07-23 5:13 PM flood 1.37 2026-07-23 8:32 PM slack -

NYC Central Park - Full Park Summer Hike, Scenic

Embayment Day Outrigger Volunteers

Exploring the Audubon Mural Project: NYC Street Art for Endangered Birds

Tickets: $39.98 ( incl. $4.98 fees ) (advance registration required) Click the link below to officially register for this experience: [https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1977300281369](https://www.nyadventureclub.com/event/1977300281369) If you walk around the Northern Manhattan neighborhood of Hamilton Heights, you're bound to stumble upon beautiful artworks on seemingly every corner. But unlike other art collectives around New York City featuring an eclectic range of themes, this one focuses exclusively on birds — and not just any birds, but those North American species that could become extinct if nothing is done to address climate change. From stunning designs on storefront security gates to oversized murals covering an entire side of a building, it's time to explore one of the country's most ambitious and environmentally-focused street art initiatives, captivating birders and non-birders alike. Join [New York Adventure Club](https://www.nyadventureclub.com) for an on-the-ground exploration of the Audubon Mural Project, a collaboration between the National Audubon Society and art dealer/collector Avi Gitler that aims to create murals of 314 climate-threatened North American birds — mostly throughout the neighborhood of Hamilton Heights, where famed American ornithologist John James Audubon once lived. Led by licensed New York City tour guide Leigh Hallingby, our tour of this incredible collective will include: * A brief introduction to **the New York neighborhood of Hamilton Heights** and impact of former resident / landowner John James Audubon (1785-1851) * The **origin story the Audubon Mural Project**, which to-date, includes nearly 100 murals depicting over 138 bird species * A **close look at dozens of murals** throughout the neighborhood of Hamilton Heights, along with commentary around the artists and their vision See you there! \*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking! \*\*Our experience will conclude at Broadway and W. 164th St. **About Leigh** Leigh is a licensed NYC tour guide who specializes in Harlem, Morningside Heights, and the Upper West Side. She is passionate about exploring all five boroughs and beyond on foot, mostly through organized walking tours. Leigh is retired from a 36-year career as a non-profit librarian in New York City. She loves doing research about the neighborhoods in which she gives tours and sharing the information about them with attendees. Leigh is a feminist, collector, genealogist, and lover of arts, culture, and travel. She lives on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Disclaimer Event takes place rain or shine. By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our [terms of service](https://about.nyadventureclub.com/terms). Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours

MKC: Novice+ sunrise volunteer trip - 4 miles total

*This trip is open to those who have volunteered in 2026 during our **public kayaking days.*** Once the RSVP opens, you will be placed on a waitlist until the host reviews your volunteer status and to make sure you completed the qualifications below. *** **MKC: Novice+ sunrise**☀️**volunteer trip - 4 miles total** Let's paddle across the Hudson to visit our friends at MKC! **PREREQUISITES TO RSVP:** 1. volunteered **AT LEAST** 2 shifts in 2026 during our free kayaking days AND 2. Completed at least 2 trainings in 2026 with our boathouse AND 3. You completed a 3+ mile round trip in 2026 in which you showed control of your kayak/SUP/OC and found it easy to stay toward the front of the group **COME PREPARED:** * Water * Food if you plan to picnic or cash/credit to buy food there. * Sunscreen * Hat * Change of clothes * Anything else you may need to spend 2 hours paddling! **CRAFT:** * Sit on top - Nope! * Sea Kayak - Only if completed a wet exit and show control of your kayak * OC1/OC2 - Ke Aloha ***supporting*** paddlers with a Ke Aloha coach approval (have coach contact host) * SUP - Only if completed a 2 mile trip with our boathouse * Surfski - Only if completed a 2 mile trip with our boathouse **TIMELINE:** 6:30 AM Arrive at the boathouse 6:45 AM Safety briefing hard cutoff to arrive. Whoever does not make it by this time will not be able to join 7:15 AM Move boats to the beach 7:30 AM Depart from HCCB 8:30 AM Arrive at MKC 8:45 AM Land and stash boats 90 minutes to eat and relax 10:15 AM Meet at boats, prepare gear, return safety briefing 10:30 AM Depart from MKC 11:30 AM Arrive at HCCB 11:45 AM Clean and put away equipment 12:30 PM Trip ends *** **[NOAA predicted current at Pier 92](https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaacurrents/predictions.html?id=NYH1927_13&begin_date=2026-07-26&date-range=daily&date-timeUnits=am%2Fpm&date-interval=MAX_SLACK&units=english&time-zone=LST_LDT&threshold=leEq&thresholdValue=)** 2026-07-26 7:27 AM flood 0.5 2026-07-26 9:34 AM slack - 2026-07-26 1:12 PM ebb -1.78 HCCB is completely volunteer run. Our guides generously take time out of their busy schedules to run trips and trainings. If you RSVP yes, please consider this a **commitment to attend**. If you cancel at the last minute or no-show, you take a spot away from someone else or prevent a trip/training from happening. We understand that life happens, so if you must cancel close to the start of a trip or training, please change your RSVP to “Not Going” and message the host(s) or comment in the chat. Here are our guidelines about cancelations and no-shows: \* *For a trip, please cancel prior to 8:00 PM the day before*\* the trip. \* *For a training, please cancel at least 6 hours*\* before the training. \* If you do not cancel before the cancelation cutoff time, you will be marked as a no-show. \* Hosts reserve the right to deprioritize you on waitlists after the second no-show of the year.