Each Wednesday, we’ll focus on different tasks depending on the season—such as phragmites cutting, water chestnut removal, and other vital restoration activities. Our efforts help maintain the health and biodiversity of Van Cortlandt Park's wetlands, ensuring the sustainability of this important ecosystem. For the October dates, our primary task will be cutting back invasive phragmites reeds, which threaten to overrun native plants and alter the wetland habitat. In other seasons, we may tackle aquatic invasive species like water chestnut or work on additional restoration projects in the floodplain. What to Expect: Seasonal tasks: Depending on the time of year, we...

Join us in honoring our veterans by maintaining Memorial Grove in Van Cortlandt Park this October. We’re hosting two volunteer events to ensure the grove is beautifully prepared for our upcoming Veterans Day celebration. This is a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with fellow volunteers. Event Details: Dates: Thursday 10/24 & 10/31 Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Location: Memorial Grove, Van Cortlandt Park Activities: Raking Leaves: Gather and rake leaves to keep the grove tidy. Picking Up Sticks: Collect sticks and debris to maintain a clean environment. General Upkeep: Assist with...

🌳 What: Forest Restoration in the Northwest Forest 📅 When: Fridays ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM 📍 Where: Van Cortlandt Park - Garden & Compost Site Description: We will be focusing on removing invasive species like porcelain berry, bittersweet, mile-a-minute, Norway Maple and more. These activities are crucial in preserving the health and biodiversity of our forest. Activities Include: Invasive Species Removal: Help us eradicate invasive plants that threaten our native ecosystem. Forest Restoration: Assist in the restoration of native plants and habitats. Hands-on Activities: Engage in practical conservation efforts that make a real difference. What to Bring:...

Join the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance in an ongoing effort to restore the natural biodiversity of Vault Hill Meadow by removing invasive plant species. This opportunity focuses on hands-on invasive species removal, with tasks varying seasonally to ensure the health and recovery of this important area within the park. What to Expect: • Seasonal invasive species removal: Volunteers will tackle invasive plants such as porcelain berry, multiflora rose, and others that pose a threat to native species. • Hands-on fieldwork: Expect to get involved in physical tasks, including cutting, pulling, and gathering invasive plants. • Equipment provided: Gloves, tools, and...

Be a part of the community effort to maintain the historic Cross Country Course in Van Cortlandt Park. Whether you’re an experienced trailblazer or new to trail maintenance, your help will make a significant impact! Meeting Details: Location: Van Cortlandt Park, Garden and Education Compost Site, across from Riverdale Stables. Time: 9 am sharp; work begins at 9:15 am Please note: There is no session on October 3rd. Activities Include: Repairing cross country trail surfaces Clearing debris and overgrowth Ensuring trail safety and accessibility What to Bring: Sunscreen Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing Closed-toed shoes Water and a snack Why Join Us?...

Turnip to volunteer! At the VCPA Educational Garden & Compost Site, we are open and enjoying our rebuilt space while maintaining our plants and produce. Volunteers will learn how to care for the garden, maintain compost bins, weed, water, and harvest produce. No gardening experience needed. 18 and older. Groups of 5+ must register as a unit via email to gardening@vancortlandt.org Dates: September 24 October 8 October 22 November 12 Sessions run from 10am-1pm. RSVP Now.