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

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/)).**

Volunteer open training - ALL LEVELS

You can paddle on your own, or receive some instruction from basic to advance strokes. Please sign up for up to one training per week, unless you are the trainer. Let others have fun! The host will move you to "Not going" if you sign up for more than one training per week. We'll check that folks have signed the annual waiver. Please sign ahead of time and keep the email confirmation, click [here.](https://app.waiversign.com/e/5c01c8bb33b77b2595e6fdfa/doc/695a606c38aa3d0012b5747c?event=none) Please be on time and come prepared with the following: \*Quick drying clothes * Close toe water shoes \*Change of clothes * Towel \*Sunscreen, hat * Water in a reusable bottle PREREQUISITES TO RSVP \*You have volunteered at least 4 embayment shifts in 2026

Bike with Samara Community School students at Van Cortlandt Park!

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/)).**

CONCRETE TO TRAILS: Bus to Fall Foliage Day at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center

**[>> REGISTER HERE FOR THE BUS TO FALL FOLIAGE DAY AT REEVES MEADOW<<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001GTbl2AG/act00023162)** 🍂 \*\*Crunch some leaves. Make some memories.\*\*🍁 **Trade sidewalks for dirt paths—no car needed!** **Concrete to Trails** bus trips make it easy to hike, explore, and meet fellow outdoor lovers just beyond the city. No experience required. Celebrate the autumn colors with AMC at our **Fall Foliage Day at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center on October 18th from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm!** Enjoy guided hikes, foliage walks, seasonal treats, nature activities, and some of the best fall colors in Harriman State Park. Whether you're looking for a relaxed stroll or a more challenging hike, there's something for everyone. 🥾 Guided hikes & walks ☕ Hot drinks, apple cider & donuts 🎨 Leaf printing & nature activities **🍎** Family-friendly activities 🍁 Commemorative sticker while supplies last **[Fall Foliage Day at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001GTS52AO/act00023161) is Free and open to all!** **If you need a ride to the event, registration for AMC's Concrete to Trails bus opens October 3rd at 12:00 [HERE](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001GTbl2AG/act00023162)**

Central Park Afternoon Photo Walk & Free Film Festival

Let’s go to a Phone Photo Walk in Central Park and Free Nat Geo Central Park Conservancy Film Festival! Group meets at 3:30pm by Pulitzer Plaza Fountain benches on Fifth Ave @ 59th St - across the street from the Apple Store. We plan to walk some 2 to 2.5miles with stops to practice some fun phone photo and video skills. By 5:45pm we go to the Film Festival grounds (between the Sheep Meadow and Cherry Hill) to have some picnic. There will be a DJ and a trivia with prizes before the movie starts at 7pm. So bring snacks and water, a blanket to sit on the grass, wear supportive shoes and come enjoy the Park in good company! My Instagram is @rebecaphotony - also please register on the AMC website: https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001KNW92AO/act00024221 And here is the link to the Festival: https://www.centralparknyc.org/activities/events/carl-sagan-we-are-made-of-star-stuff-at-the-central-park-conservancy-film-festival

Bird Walk

$10/person for 90 minute bird walk around Central Park with naturalist Debbie Becker.

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!!!!

Pollinator Meadow Volunteer Workday

Pollinator Meadow activities will focus on pathway installation and invasive species sweep and removal. Work is strenuous to moderate. 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 start promptly at 10 am. Please dress appropriately! Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes or rain boots. please no bug spray. Wear sunscreen and a hat. 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 coordinator Lori LaBorde at citizenscience@[somocon.org](http://somocon.org/) **Meet at the meadow after parking in Shady Nook Picnic Area.**

Elite Trip - Circumnavigation of Manhattan - 31 miles

**We'll paddle around the entire island of Manhattan.** It'll take 10 hours, we'll travel 30+ miles, on 3 rivers, and under 21 bridges! This will be an amazing, yet a very challenging trip. You must be able to paddle at least 3 knots per hour for the 9+ hours. **PREREQUISITES TO RSVP:** 1. volunteered at least 4 shifts in 2026 AND 2. Completed 2 advanced trips in 2026 (or 1 advanced and 2 intermediate ) AND 3. You have proven that you can paddle 1 mile (including turns) in under 15 minutes in the craft you are planning to paddle AND 4. You can self rescue in 90 seconds or less **CRAFT:** * Sit on top - not allowed * Sea Kayak - Level 3 * OC1/OC2 - not allowed. You may join Ke Aloha's circ the same day! * SUP - only if completed 10+ mile round trip in 2025 with us * Surfski - only if completed 10+ mile round trip in 2025 with us **COME PREPARED:** * Clothing appropriate for water temperature. * Change of clothes * Extra layers for when we stop. You will be cold * THREE white waterproof lights. And lots of others if you like! * Water in a reusable bottle. So much water * Lots of food * Anything else you may need to spend 12 hours on the water **TIMELINE:** Detailed timeline will be provided by trip leader to each participant once approved by host

Sunday Gathering: Sharing Our Peace Corps Journey–Bringing Our Experiences Home

Matt and Jen Tully spent 15 years living and working overseas in places like Armenia, Cameroon, Myanmar, Nepal and the Philippines. Their journey began as Peace Corps volunteers and has included roles in education and social work both in the US and abroad. Join us as Jen and Matt share about the experiences that led them to feel at home here at our Ethical Culture Society. This Gathering is at the meetinghouse and on Zoom. To receive the Zoom link, please email admin@ethicalfocus.org.