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

New Volunteer Meeting followed by Quarterly Meeting!

Film Festival Planning Mtg

Trail Mix w/ Sharon Salmon ~6 miles

**Saturday, Sept 12, 8:00 - 11:00am** Trail Mix. Approx 6 miles on a mix of terrain. One long uphill. Moderate pace and difficulty. **Meet**: Oakdale parking lot (across from The Waterfront). **Leader**: Sharon Salmon 973-715-5554. \*\*\* 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/)).**

Fun Trails w/ Donna Burkat, 4-5 miles

Meet at Tulip Springs for a fun 4-5 mile hike . Bring water, snack and be ready to switch trails up. Leader: Donna Burkat, 973-454-5635 cell \*\*\* 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/)).**

Help Samara Community School students learn to ride!

Shirley Chisholm State Park Shore Clean Up & Hike with NYS Parks & AMC

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001BhkD2AS/act00022030) for this FREE event!** **🌿 Get Outside for New York Climate Week: Hike, Restore & Connect at Shirley Chisholm State Park** Join the **Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)** and **New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation** for an inspiring afternoon outdoors as we celebrate New York Climate Week—right here in one of New York City’s most unique and scenic state parks. This special event is all about **connecting with nature, caring for our parks, and building community**. Whether you’re brand new to hiking or a seasoned outdoor lover, you’re welcome here—no experience needed. Appropriate for everyone ages 5 years old and up. Together with Park educators, we’ll explore the beauty of Shirley Chisholm State Park through a **guided naturalist walk**, roll up our sleeves for a **hands-on shoreline cleanup**, and spend time **connecting** with fellow New Yorkers who care about the outdoors. Along the way, you’ll learn about the park’s ecology, history of its transformation from landfill to park, discover ways to steward these shared spaces, and leave having made a real impact. 🌞 **What to expect:** * 12:00-12:30pm Welcome & Interpretive Naturalist Share * 12:30-1:30pm Shoreline Clean Up * 1:30-1:45pm Break * 1:45-3:00pm Trail Walk & Community 🌞 **What to bring:** * Sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks 🌞 **What to wear:** * Sturdy shoes, weather appropriate clothing, long pants, and sun protective clothing 🌞 **Where to meet:** * Meet Time: 11:45am * Meeting Place: Fountain Avenue Entrance Patio, located behind the parking lot behind the Blue trailer with the butterfly on it 🌞 **How to get there:** * Take the A or C subway to Euclid Station and take the Q8 bus towards Spring Creek Gateway Mall via 101 Avenue or walk 20 minutes to the Fountain Avenue Entrance. Bike racks are available; bring a lock. * Driving Instructions: [Fountain Avenue Entrance](https://www.google.com/maps?q=40.65460044,-73.86011178) [Learn more about Shirley Chisholm State Park - NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation](https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/shirley-chisholm-state-park) [Learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Club](https://www.outdoors.org/) 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.

Soundview Restoration Day! 🌳

On Saturday, September 19th let’s plant trees and clean up the coast as part of Soundview Restoration Day! 🌳 Details below: 9:45am to 2pm Meet at the Butterfly Meditation Garden At Lafayette Ave & Colgate Ave Google maps link to Butterly Meditation Garden in Soundview Park: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/ev7eciwsSAcpA8QL9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ev7eciwsSAcpA8QL9) In Soundview Park, The Bronx Will help plant 250 trees, clean up the shore Must sign waiver As of 9/9/26, registrations have filled Of course, please reach out if you have any questions! The not so fun rule on RSVPs Please only RSVP if you think you can make it and adjust your RSVP asap if anything changes (as there are other people who would like your spot). Two no shows or cancellations within 6 hours results in a 4 month ban. I will send a reminder 24 hours in advance to the group Thanks and can't wait to see you!

Central Park Bird Walk- Fall Migration

The Great Fall Migration begins bringing warblers, grosbeaks, tanagers, hawks, eagles, owls and hummingbirds into Central Park. Observe all these beautiful and rare sightings with naturalist and bird guide Debbie Becker. Beginners welcome! Two hour walk for $15 per person Please register by sending $15 via Venmo to @Deb-becker-8 or PayPal [editconsul@aol.com](mailto:editconsul@aol.com)

Shirley Chisholm State Park Shore Clean Up & Hike with NYS Parks and AMC

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001BhkD2AS/act00022030) for this FREE event!** **🌿 Get Outside for New York Climate Week: Hike, Restore & Connect at Shirley Chisholm State Park** Join the **Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)** and **New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation** for an inspiring afternoon outdoors as we celebrate New York Climate Week—right here in one of New York City’s most unique and scenic state parks. This special event is all about **connecting with nature, caring for our parks, and building community**. Whether you’re brand new to hiking or a seasoned outdoor lover, you’re welcome here—no experience needed. Appropriate for everyone ages 5 years old and up. Together with Park educators, we’ll explore the beauty of Shirley Chisholm State Park through a **guided naturalist walk**, roll up our sleeves for a **hands-on shoreline cleanup**, and spend time **connecting** with fellow New Yorkers who care about the outdoors. Along the way, you’ll learn about the park’s ecology, history of its transformation from landfill to park, discover ways to steward these shared spaces, and leave having made a real impact. 🌞 **What to expect:** * 12:00-12:30pm Welcome & Interpretive Naturalist Share * 12:30-1:30pm Shoreline Clean Up * 1:30-1:45pm Break * 1:45-3:00pm Trail Walk & Community 🌞 **What to bring:** * Sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks 🌞 **What to wear:** * Sturdy shoes, weather appropriate clothing, long pants, and sun protective clothing 🌞 **Where to meet:** * Meet Time: 11:45am * Meeting Place: Fountain Avenue Entrance Patio, located behind the parking lot behind the Blue trailer with the butterfly on it 🌞 **How to get there:** * Take the A or C subway to Euclid Station and take the Q8 bus towards Spring Creek Gateway Mall via 101 Avenue or walk 20 minutes to the Fountain Avenue Entrance. Bike racks are available; bring a lock. * Driving Instructions: [Fountain Avenue Entrance](https://www.google.com/maps?q=40.65460044,-73.86011178) [Learn more about Shirley Chisholm State Park - NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation](https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/shirley-chisholm-state-park) [Learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Club](https://www.outdoors.org/) 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. AMC Leaders: Eileen Yin & Dale Henderson

Robbins Reef: Advanced Volunteer Trip - 15 miles total

*This trip is open to those who have volunteered in 2026 during our **public embayments**.* 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. We'll paddle to almost Staten Island. We'll check out a cool lighthouse, Robbins Reef. On the way there you'll paddle by Ellis Island and in front of Liberty Island. On the way back we'll take a break at Liberty State Park before returning home. **PREREQUISITES TO RSVP:** 1. volunteered **AT LEAST** 4 shifts in 2026 during our public embayment and/or you ran at least 1 trainings or guided 1 trip AND 2. completed 1 intermediate trip with our boathouse in which you stayed near the front of the pack and you found it easy to keep up AND 3. completed 2 trainings with our boathouse in 2026/2025 AND 4. finished your 1 mile-7 turns time trial with us under 16 minutes 30 seconds **COME PREPARED:** * Two all around white waterproof light (we may have extras in the boathouse) * Water * Sunscreen/hat * Wallet if you plan to buy food * Temperature appropriate clothing (no cotton sweaters) * Anything else you may need to spend a few hours paddling! **CRAFT:** * Sit on top - not allowed * Sea Kayak - must have completed a intermediate round trip and passed time trial * OC1/OC2 - Ke Aloha ***supporting*** paddlers with a Ke Aloha coach approval * SUP - must have completed a intermediate round trip and passed time trial * Surfski - must have completed a intermediate round trip and passed time trial **TIMELINE** 4:15 - 4:30 AM Arrive at the boathouse - prepare equipment 4:45 AM **IF YOU ARRIVE EVEN ONE MINUTE after this time you will not join - Safety briefing** 5:00 AM Move boats to the beach 5:10 AM on the water **Leg 1 - 7 miles** 5:15 AM Depart from HCCB 6:06 AM Civil Twilight 6:33 AM Sunrise 6:45 AM Arrive at Robbins Reef **Leg 2 - 3 miles** 7:00 AM Start trip to LSP 8:00 AM Land at LSP We'll have 60 minutes for breakfast, and rest **Leg 3- 5 miles** 9:00 AM Meet at boats, prepare gear, return safety briefing 9:15 AM Depart LSP 10:45 AM Arrive at HCCB 11:00 AM Clean and put away equipment 11:45 AM Trip ends **[NOAA predicted current at Hudson River Entrance](https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaacurrents/predictions.html?id=NYH1927_13&begin_date=2026-08-22&date-range=daily&date-timeUnits=am%2Fpm&date-interval=MAX_SLACK&units=english&time-zone=LST_LDT&threshold=leEq&thresholdValue=)**[ ](https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaacurrents/predictions.html?id=NYH1927_13&begin_date=2026-08-22&date-range=daily&date-timeUnits=am%2Fpm&date-interval=MAX_SLACK&units=english&time-zone=LST_LDT&threshold=leEq&thresholdValue=) | 2026-09-12 4:05 AM | ebb | -2.55 | | ------------------ | --- | ----- | | 2026-09-12 7:24 AM | slack | - | | 2026-09-12 10:00 AM | flood | 1.51 | NOAA predicted currents - Robbins Reef | 2026-09-12 6:43 AM | slack | - | | ------------------ | ----- | --- | | 2026-09-12 9:48 AM | flood | 1.41 | \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- HCCB is completely volunteer run. Our guides generously take time out of their busy schedules to run trips and trainings. Here are our guidelines about cancelations and no-shows: \ *For a trip, please cancel prior to 8:00 PM the day before* the trip.

Central Park Bird Walk - Great Fall Migration

Learn to Birdwatch! Beginners Welcome $15/person - 2 hour walk The Great Fall Migration begins bringing warblers, grosbeaks, tanagers, hawks, eagles, owls and hummingbirds into Central Park. Observe all these beautiful and rare sightings with naturalist and bird guide Debbie Becker. Beginners welcome! Two hour walk for $15 per person Please register by sending $15 via Venmo to @Deb-becker-8 or PayPal [editconsul@aol.com](mailto:editconsul@aol.com)