Van Cortlandt Park holds one of the largest surviving forests in New York City, and the cross-country trail running through it has hosted championship races since the 1910s. Three hours of pulling invasives here is not symbolic work - it directly opens the canopy floor for oak seedlings and native wildflowers that cannot compete otherwise. If you want the Bronx's wildest acreage and a job to do in it, RSVP early.
What to expect
A meet-up at the Alliance's Learning Garden, a safety briefing, then tools and gloves handed out before the crew heads into the woods along the trail. Expect ticks, dirt, humidity and genuine physical work at a manageable pace, with staff explaining which plants are coming out and why.
Good to know
- Take the 1 train to 242nd Street-Van Cortlandt Park, then walk to the VCPA Learning Garden
- Free, but capped at 30 volunteers and RSVP is required through the Alliance's volunteer portal
- Ages 15 and up; minors need a signed waiver from a parent or guardian
- Wear clothes that can get filthy, sturdy closed shoes and long socks against ticks
- Bring a water bottle and sunscreen - tools and gloves are provided
- Groups of six or more should email the Alliance in advance to be scheduled
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Common questions
Do I need to bring tools?
No. Van Cortlandt Park Alliance provides all tools and gloves. Bring water, sunscreen and clothes you do not mind ruining.
Is there an age limit?
Volunteers must be 15 or older, and anyone under 18 needs a signed waiver from a parent or guardian.
How do I sign up?
Registration runs through the Alliance's online volunteer portal, linked from the event page. Shifts are capped at 30 people, and groups of six or more should email the Alliance directly.
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