Forest Fridays: Forest Restoration in Van Cortlandt Park

Forest Fridays:Restore Van Cortlandt Park's Forest

Help protect and restore the forests of Van Cortlandt Park — one of NYC’s most ecologically significant green spaces.

Join our Forest Friday crew to remove invasive species like multiflora rose, porcelain berry, garlic mustard and bittersweet. Your hands-on work will create space for native plants to return and help this 640-acre urban ecosystem thrive for generations to come.

?️ What We'll Do:

• Identify and remove invasive plants (e.g. multiflora rose, bittersweet, porcelain berry)
• Use hand tools to clear priority zones and prepare them for native species
• Learn about forest ecology, plant ID, and restoration techniques from experienced staff and stewards
• A bit of spring planting!

? When:

Fridays, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Please arrive by 9:00 — the group departs for the site at 9:15 sharp

? Where:

Van Cortlandt Park – Garden & Compost Site

(Meeting location; we’ll hike to the work site together)

? What to Bring:

Dress in Layers: Long pants (canvas/denim), long sleeves, and a hat — protect yourself from thorns and weather. Avoid puffy jackets.

Gloves & Tools: Provided! Bring your own gloves if you’d like.

Shoes: Sturdy, closed-toe footwear required

Other: Reusable water bottle, snacks, and a spirit of stewardship

? Sign Up:

Each Friday has space for 30 volunteers. A waitlist is available if full.

Click “Select Your Date” above to sign up for a specific shift.

This is real forest work! You’ll be in areas where ticks and poison ivy may be present. We’ll help you stay aware and safe — please dress accordingly and do a tick check afterward.