Conservation Volunteering New York

NY MANHUNT SATURDAYS 🗽 | Runners vs. Hunters 🏃🎯

**🚨 NYC — THE HUNT IS BACK! 🗽🔥** **Last weekend’s weather may have postponed us, but NY MANHUNT returns THIS SATURDAY!** **Think hide-and-seek meets tag — except New York City is the playing field.** **🏃 RUNNERS vs. HUNTERS 🎯** **📅 Saturday, October 3** **⏰ 3:00 PM–9:00 PM** **🗽 Midtown meetup afterward (9–10 PM)** **🔞 21+ ONLY** **🏃 HOW IT WORKS** **Runners: Run, hide, explore NYC and keep moving. Your goal is simple: survive until 9 PM without getting caught.** **Hunters: Track down and tag the Runners before time runs out. Every capture needs photo/video proof. 🎯📸** **📍 Every 90 minutes, active players share their live location for 15 minutes.** **🚫 NO CAMPING: You cannot stay in the same location/neighborhood for two consecutive location drops. Keep moving!** **🌎 No borough boundaries. NYC is your playing field — just make sure you can get back to Midtown for the final meetup.** **🏆 WHO WINS?** **🎯 Hunters win if every eligible Runner is captured before 9 PM.** **🏃 Runners win if at least ONE eligible Runner survives until 9 PM.** **🍻 The losing team buys the winning team a round at the Midtown meetup.** **⚠️ SAFETY** **This is a social game — not an actual chase at any cost. No tackling, restraining, fighting, dangerous street crossings, trespassing, entering restricted areas, or interfering with the public.** **Once you’re captured, you’re eliminated from the hunt and cannot reveal locations or help either team.** **🔥 WANT TO PLAY?** **Joining the Meetup group does NOT automatically put you on Saturday’s roster.** **You must RSVP/apply through Partiful so we can approve players, assign teams and organize the game-day chats:** **JOIN NY MANHUNT — RSVP ON PARTIFUL⁠** **Already approved on Partiful? Your spot carries over from the postponed game. ✅** **RUN. HIDE. MOVE. SURVIVE.** **Same city. Different game. 🗽🏃🎯**

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

Apple Picking and Hiking with MS167

Hike with Dr. Kirk! 3-4 miles

**Sunday, October 11, 3 - 5:30pm** Free expert-led hike in South Mountain Reservation. Hike about 2-3 hours covering 3-4 miles at a modest pace over rocky trails with one long climb from the Rahway River up South Mountain. Focus on ecology and hydrology, led by Dr. Kirk Barrett, President of the Rahway Watershed Association and expert on local watershed issues. Good balance required. Children welcome. No dogs. **Sponsored by South Mountain Conservancy and the Rahway River Watershed Association.** Meet at Clipper Pavilion in South Mountain Reservation on Cherry Lane in West Orange (not at McLoone's). Steady rain cancels. Advance registration required via https://www.eventbrite.com/o/rahway-river-watershed-association-29353243393 Email president@rahwayriver.org with questions. Leader: Dr. Kirk Barrett, President of the Rahway River Watershed Association (RRWA) and expert on local watershed issues. \*\*\* 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!

Crest Drive-Bramhall w/ Donna Burkat, 4-5 miles

Happy Columbus Day! Meet at Crest Drive by where Bramhall sign was. 4-5 Mile scenic hike. Bring water snack. Cell#. 973-454-5635 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/)).**

Central Park Bird Walk

Beginners welcome! 1.5 hour Bird walk for $10 per person Please register by sending $10 via Venmo to @Deb-becker-8 or PayPal [editconsul@aol.com](mailto:editconsul@aol.com) 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.

Bike with Samara Community School students at Van Cortlandt Park!

Community Wellness Walk in Central Park

### [>> REGISTER HERE>>](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001Jfen2AC/act00024030) ### **Community Wellness Walk**: Explore • Craft for Care • Connect #### Overview A free community wellness experience in Central Park featuring a guided walk, creative activities, community care, and meaningful connection Join **Appalachian Mountain Club** (AMC)**, The SWL Collective & Release Wellness** on **Saturday, October 3rd** for a free community wellness experience in the heart of Central Park, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds for a day of movement, nature, creativity, and connection. The **Community Wellness Walk** is designed for everyone: families, friends, professionals, community members, wellness enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an opportunity to spend meaningful time outdoors, connect with others, and support overall well-being. Participants will gather in Central Park for a guided wellness walk through scenic trails, where we will explore the beauty of nature while engaging in gentle movement, mindfulness, and community connection. Whether you come with a group or arrive on your own, you are welcome to walk at your own pace, meet new people, and enjoy a supportive and inclusive environment. Following the walk, participants are invited to participate in **Craft for Care**, a creative wellness experience focused on reflection, kindness, and connection. Through activities such as bracelet making and affirmation card creation, participants will have the opportunity to create meaningful reminders of hope, encouragement, and care for themselves or someone else. Participants will also have the opportunity to access wellness resources and limited **Community Care Kits**, available while supplies last. These kits include supportive resources and small self-care items designed to encourage continued connection, wellness, and care beyond the event. ## What to Expect: 🌿 **Guided Wellness Walk Through Central Park** Enjoy time outdoors while exploring scenic trails through movement, mindfulness, and connection. 🧘 **Gentle Movement & Grounding Activities** Take part in simple wellness practices designed to encourage presence, relaxation, and reflection. 🎨 **Craft for Care Creative Experience** Create bracelets and affirmation cards that promote kindness, encouragement, resilience, and community care. 💛 **Meaningful Community Connection** Meet new people, strengthen community relationships, and share a welcoming space with others. 🎁 **Community Care Kits & Wellness Resources & Raffles** Limited Community Care Kits will be available **while supplies last** and will include wellness resources and small reminders of care and connection. Raffles and Giveaways will be provided as well. ***All participants will receive a Complimentary 1 year AMC membership to use for outdoor activities, programming and discount to facilities).*** ✨ **A Day Focused on Wellness, Hope, and Belonging** Celebrate the power of movement, creativity, nature, and community support. In recognition of **Suicide Prevention Awareness Month**, the event will include a brief acknowledgment of the importance of mental wellness, connection, and community support. While this acknowledgment is an important part of the day, the primary focus remains on fostering wellness, resilience, and belonging through shared experiences in nature. Whether you are attending with friends, family, colleagues, or joining us on your own, you are welcome. This event is for anyone seeking connection, wellness, and a meaningful outdoor experience. **Come walk. Come create. Come connect. Everyone is welcome.** **Disclaimer** By registering for this event, you acknowledge and agree that: * Participation in the walk requires signing the AMC liability waiver before the event. Participants who do not sign the waiver will not be able to join the walk. * Photos and videos may be taken during the event for promotional, marketing, and community purposes. By attending, you consent to being photographed or recorded and to the use of your image or likeness in the three orgs communications and promotional materials without compensation. If you have any questions or concerns about the waiver or photography, please contact the event organizer before the event.

Pier i: Intermediate Volunteer Trip - 6 miles total

*This trip is open to those who have volunteered in 2026 during our public kayaking days. Space is limited - once you join, you will be placed on a waitlist until the host reviews your qualifications.* **Pier i: Intermediate Volunteer Trip - 6 miles total** Let's paddle to Manhattan and land at “Choo Choo Beach”, a small, very rocky landing spot near Pier I. There is a waterfront cafe with outdoor tables where we can grab a quick bite. This landing is tricky. Plastic boats are encouraged. If you choose a non-plastic boat, be prepared to jump out into waist deep water. Wear sturdy water shoes - you will be climbing on wet rocks carrying your boat. **PREREQUISITES TO RSVP:** 1. Volunteered **AT LEAST** 4 shifts in 2026 during our free kayaking days AND 1. Completed at least 2 trainings in 2026 and show full control of your craft AND 1. Completed at least 1 novice trip in which you found it easy to stay toward the front of the group AND 1. You completed our time trial course in under 19 minutes **COME PREPARED:** * Appropriate clothing for water and air temperature. No cotton * 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 - Not allowed * Sea Kayak - Only if completed a wet exit * OC1/OC2 - Not allowed due to landing * SUP - Only if completed a 6+ mile trip with our boathouse * Surfski - Not allowed due to landing **TIMELINE:** 1:15 PM Arrive at the boathouse **1:30 PM Safety briefing hard cutoff to arrive. Whoever does not make it by this time will not be able to join** 2:15 PM Move boats to the beach 2:30 PM Depart from HCCB 3:30 PM Arrive at Pier i 3:45 PM Land and stash boats 60 minutes to eat and relax 4:45 PM Meet at boats, prepare gear, return safety briefing 5:00 PM Depart from Pier i 6:00 PM Arrive at HCCB 6:30 PM Clean and put away equipment, trip ends **[NOAA Current Predictions at Pier 92](https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaacurrents/predictions.html?id=NYH1928_12&begin_date=2026-07-09&date-range=daily&date-timeUnits=am%2Fpm&date-interval=MAX_SLACK&units=english&time-zone=LST_LDT&threshold=leEq&thresholdValue=)** | 2026-10-3 11:00 AM | slack | - | | 2026-10-3 1:52 PM | flood | 1.61 | | 2026-10-3 4:59 PM | slack | - | | 2026-10-3 8:58 PM | ebb | -2.03 | *** 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.

SMC Trail Work Volunteer Day

**TRAIL WORK (which was canceled Sept. 13th due to steady rain) will continue rerouting the Hogenauer Trail** (we are making progress!) up the slope and away from recently installed property fences. **Meet At:** Dog Park/ Wildflower Preserve, 11 Bear Lane, Maplewood. From there, we will walk to Crater View on Crest drive and then to the Hogenauer trail work site. (Note: While we normally meet the first Sudnay of each month, this volunteer day was shifted after the Labor Day weekend.) Trail work is physically challenging but very satisfying as we use hand tools to build and repair trails. Participants must be 15+ years. Those younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants **should wear long pants** due to [ticks](https://www.somocon.org/?page_id=193928&fb) and thron bushes and sturdy shoes, and bring gloves (though backup gloves will be available). Tools, water, and a snack will be provided. (Registration is not required though if you sign up on Meetup, it helps us know how many tools to bring.) Only heavy, steady rain cancels.

Central Park Fall Bird Walk

Bird walk! Beginners & experts Welcome! Cost of the walk per person is $10 payable by Venmo @Deb-becker-8 or PayPal editconsul@aol.com Take a fall bird walk with birding expert Debbie Becker. The 1.5 hour walk in Central Park will identify and highlight the birds migrating through. Hummingbirds, hawks, tanagers, grosbeaks and warblers!!!!