New York runs a periodic census of its street and park trees, and Trees Count is how ordinary people get to be part of it: measuring trunks, identifying species and logging condition alongside the Urban Park Rangers. Doing it in St. Mary's Park means working the 35-acre rocky rise that is the largest park in the South Bronx. You will never look at a street tree the same way again, and the data is real.
What to expect
Expect Rangers to train the group on identification, measuring tape technique and data recording, then send you out across the park in small groups to survey trees. It is outdoor, walking-paced work with plenty of instruction. No botany background is needed — the training is the point.
Good to know
- St. Mary's Park runs between St. Ann's and Jackson Avenues in Mott Haven, the Bronx; the session meets on the west playground side.
- The 6 at Cypress Avenue and the 2 and 5 at Jackson Avenue are both a short walk.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes for walking off the paths.
- Bring water and sun protection; the survey work is outdoors throughout.
- It is a free NYC Parks program, though registration is often requested in advance.
- The park is hilly — the playground side is the flatter approach.
Get Saturday planned every Thursday
One email a week — the best of the NYC weekend board. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Common questions
What is Trees Count?
New York City's tree census work, in which volunteers help identify, measure and record the condition of trees in parks and on streets.
Do I need to know trees already?
No — the Urban Park Rangers train participants on identification and measurement at the start of the session.
Where does it meet?
At the west playground side of St. Mary's Park in Mott Haven, the Bronx.
More this weekend
