On Saturday, October 4th, Riverside Park Conservancy joined forces with Council Member Gale Brewer to co-host a special event in honor of City of Forest Day. An annual tradition, City of Forest Day’s goal is to raise awareness of the importance of the New York City urban forest, and the essential role New Yorkers play every day in caring for the “lungs” of our city. This year, over 100 different community events were held across NYC, including the Conservancy’s Forest Explorers event, which took place at our newly installed, solar-powered and grid independent Riverside Info Center on the Hudson River Greenway.
On their way to the location, participants had an opportunity to weave through pathways lined with mature canopy trees in Riverside Park. Families, neighbors, and nature enthusiasts were invited to engage in a variety of hands-on activities designed to deepen their understanding of local ecology and the critical role of the urban forest in our fight to build climate resilience and keep our city cool and livable.
The centerpiece of the event was the debut of a brand-new Forever Wild Forest Guide. Designed by Conservancy staff, this pocket-sized trail companion helps visitors explore the nature trail through the nearby Forever Wild Nature Preserve and Bird Sanctuary located in Riverside Park between 116th and 121st Streets. The illustrated guide includes information on the species of trees, shrubs, birds, and mammals native to this area. With an easy-to-follow trail map and helpful naturalist insights, the Forever Wild Forest Guide was a hit among attendees of all ages and will continue to serve as a valuable resource for future visitors to the park.
Nearby, the craft corner invited guests to use the power of the sun to create cyanotype prints, transforming fallen leaves into lasting art pieces. Volunteers and staff shared tips on caring for New York City’s urban forest such as how to spot tree stress, the benefits of native species, and the importance of biodiversity to maintain healthy park ecosystems.
Attendees enjoyed a taste of early fall with free apple cider and donuts, compliments of Gale Brewer’s office. They played lawn games along the Hudson River Greenway underneath the shady tree canopy and swapped stories about their favorite trees. The event fostered a sense of community and stewardship, and many left with new curiosity and respect for the forest that sustains us in the big city.
We thank everyone who came out and look forward to future opportunities to learn, explore, and celebrate our urban forest together. Check out our calendar for upcoming events, including bird walks and our regular Canopy Club volunteering opportunity, where community members assist our woodland gardener in caring for the Forever Wild forest.
