It's My Park days are how Staten Island's smaller waterfront parks stay usable, and this one is run by Pirate Park Families, a neighborhood group that has effectively adopted Seaside Wildlife Nature Park. The work is a garden bed and a litter sweep, which is unglamorous and takes about ninety minutes. If you want a Sunday that leaves something visibly better than you found it, this is the one.
What to expect
You show up at the park, sign in with the organizers, and get put on either the garden bed or the litter sweep. Expect weeding, mulching and bagging trash rather than anything technical; the group works together and the pace is sociable. It runs about ninety minutes in a waterfront park in Great Kills, so plan for sun and for wind off the water.
Good to know
- Seaside Wildlife Nature Park is on the Great Kills waterfront in southern Staten Island; driving, or a bus along Hylan Boulevard plus a short walk, are the real
- Free to join — City Parks Foundation lists It's My Park volunteer days as open to anyone.
- Wear closed shoes and clothes you don't mind ruining, because gardening means dirt.
- Bring water and sun protection; the park is on open water with little shade.
- Good for teenagers and adults, and younger kids can help with an adult alongside them.
- Check the event page before traveling in case the organizers move or cancel for weather.
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Common questions
Do I need to sign up in advance?
The NYC Parks listing doesn't require registration, but It's My Park organizers usually appreciate a heads-up. Check the listing on nycgovparks.org or contact City Parks Foundation before you go.
What will I actually be doing?
Weeding and maintaining the park's garden bed, plus a general litter clean-up of the grounds.
Is it free?
Yes, entirely. It's a volunteer day rather than a ticketed event.
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