Woodlawn Wednesdays in Van Cortlandt Park

Help restore the beautiful woodlands of Van Cortlandt Park’s east side! Join us for Woodlawn Wednesdays, where volunteers like you play a vital role in preserving this important urban ecosystem.

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What You’ll Do

Each week, we’ll focus on hands-on tasks that vary with the seasons. You might:

Remove Invasive Species: Tackle harmful plants like multiflora rose, bush honeysuckle, bittersweet, and Japanese angelica tree that threaten our native biodiversity.

Maintain Trails: Keep paths clear, safe, and welcoming for all park visitors.

Plant Native Species: Contribute to long-term forest health by planting native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.

No experience needed! We provide all tools and gloves. You’ll also learn about learn about forest ecology, plant ID, and restoration techniques.

Where:

Meet outside the handball courts at Woodlawn Playground – just north of Van Cortlandt Park East and Oneida Avenue.

What to Bring:

Long sleeves, long pants (denim or canvas recommended), and a hat

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes

Water bottle and snacks

Sunscreen and bug spray (recommended)

Your enthusiasm for conservation!

Volunteer Policy for Minors

• Ages 15 – 17

A parent or guardian must sign and submit a volunteer waiver. Once the waiver is on file, the minor may participate without an accompanying adult.

• Ages 12 – 14

A parent or guardian must accompany the minor and remain on-site for the entire project.

• Under 12

Children may volunteer only at events specifically labeled family-friendly and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.