Strack Pond is one of the city's better restoration stories — a glacial kettle pond that was filled in for decades and then dug back out and replanted, and is now a functioning wetland inside Forest Park's old-growth ridge. Volunteering here means maintaining something that was deliberately brought back rather than merely preserved. If you want a couple of hours of straightforward outdoor work with a visible result and a genuinely pretty setting, this is a strong Queens option.
What to expect
Meet stewardship staff near the pond, sign in and collect gloves and hand tools. The session focuses on pulling and cutting invasive species along the wetland edge and woodland understory, with staff showing you the target plants first. Expect damp ground near the water, mosquitoes and moderate physical effort.
Good to know
- J or Z to Woodhaven Blvd leaves a manageable walk into the park's northern side
- Wear long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe boots — poison ivy is present
- Bug spray is essential this close to standing water
- Tools and gloves are provided; bring your own water
- Ground near the pond can be soft or muddy after rain
- Under-18 volunteers need a signed parental waiver
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Common questions
What is Strack Pond?
A glacial kettle pond in Forest Park that was filled in for decades and later excavated and replanted as a working wetland.
Do I need to bring tools?
No. Gloves and hand tools are supplied by the NYC Parks stewardship crew.
Will I get muddy?
Probably. The work is right along a wetland edge, so wear boots and clothes you don't care about.
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