Conservation Volunteering New York

You're Invited! AMC Open House - New Members Welcome!

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX0000012vhZ2AQ/act00019525)** **Curious about AMC? Come on in!** Join us for a welcoming, community-centered Open House where you can learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Club and how we connect people to the outdoors. Whether you’re a lifelong hiker, a weekend wanderer, or just beginning your outdoor journey, there’s a place for you here. For 150 years, AMC has been fostering the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the outdoors. At our Open House, you’ll discover how we bring that mission to life through recreation, conservation, education, and advocacy across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. **What to Expect** * Meet AMC staff, volunteers, and members * Learn about local trips, programs, and volunteer opportunities * Explore how our conservation work protects the landscapes we all love * Get the inside scoop on lodging, outdoor experiences, and ways to get involved * Ask questions and find your next adventure **Why Attend?** Because the outdoors is for all of us. And the more we come together, the more we can do to protect it. You don’t need experience. You don’t need gear. You just need the desire to step outside and connect. So bring a friend, your curiosity, and your love for the outdoors. Everyone is welcome to attend, whether you are new to the AMC, a long-time member, or just curious about us. We can’t wait to welcome you! **Where to Meet** We'll see you at our partner [Rivian](https://rivian.com/)'s showroom at 461 West 14th Street in Manhattan at 6:00 pm for refreshments, games, information, and more!

Pollinator Meadow Volunteer Workday

Pollinator Meadow activities will focus on pathway installation and invasive species sweep and removal. Work is strenuous to moderate. Ages 12 to 15 are welcome with a parent or guardian present. Ages 15 and above require a signature by a parent or guardian on a [liability waiver](https://1drv.ms/b/c/d5fb9d3835660a78/IQCJO4IIj6GnQ6N4RuNC981xAYL2kFajs9_RL8f8V7NkhaM?e=5bd5oi); teenagers cannot just be dropped off. Please arrive 5 to 10 minutes early so we can start promptly at 10 am. Please dress appropriately! Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes or rain boots. please no bug spray. Wear sunscreen and a hat. We supply tools. If you have gloves, bring them or you can borrow a pair from us. Bring your own water. You can download a copy of our [liability waiver](https://1drv.ms/b/c/d5fb9d3835660a78/IQCJO4IIj6GnQ6N4RuNC981xAYL2kFajs9_RL8f8V7NkhaM?e=5bd5oi) to print, sign and bring to the event. We occasionally use photos of events in promotional materials and social media. By attending the event, I consent to photos of me being used in promotional materials or on social media. For information, contact program coordinator Lori LaBorde at citizenscience@[somocon.org](http://somocon.org/) **Meet at the meadow after parking in Shady Nook Picnic Area.**

Fall Social for volunteers!

Hike with Dr. Kirk! 3-4 miles

Saturday, November 14, 2 - 5 pm: Free expert-led hike in South Mountain Reservation. Hike about 2-3 hours covering 3-4 miles at a modest pace over rocky trails with one long climb from the Rahway River up South Mountain. Focus on ecology and hydrology, led by Dr. Kirk Barrett, President of the Rahway Watershed Association and expert on local watershed issues. Good balance required. Children welcome. No dogs. Co-Sponsered by South Mountain Conservancy and the Rahway River Watershed Association. Meet at Clipper Pavilion in South Mountain Reservation on Cherry Lane in West Orange (not at McLoone's). Steady rain cancels. Advance registration required via [rahwayriver.org/calendar.html](rahwayriver.org/calendar.html) . Email president@rahwayriver.org with questions. \*\*\* In registering for this or any other South Mountain Conservancy (SMC) programs in 2026 online, I hereby release and agree to hold the SMC, its volunteers, staff and Board of Trustees, harmless from and waive on behalf of myself, my heirs, and any personal representatives any and all causes of action, claims, demands, damages, costs, expenses and compensation for damage or loss to myself and/or property that may be caused by any act, or failure to act, in this SMC activity, or that may otherwise arise in any way in connection with any other SMC activity. I understand that this release discharges the SMC from any liability or claim that I, my heirs, or any personal representatives, may have against the SMC with respect to any bodily injury, illness, death, medical treatment, or property damage that may arise from, or in connection to, any SMC program. This liability waiver and release extends to the SMC along with Essex County and its staff and any other affiliated organization or SMC partner. I also understand that by signing below I approve the possible use of photos of me at this SMC event on social media or in promotional materials. **BY REGISTERING FOR THIS HIKE I attest I am in good health and attest that I: Am not experiencing any symptoms of illness such as cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, or new loss of taste or smell.** **Am following all CDC recommended guidelines, above, and limiting my exposure to the novel coronavirus/COVID-19.** \# Arrival\, Weather\, & Cancellations Please come to the starting point 10 minutes ahead of time so the hike can start promptly. Times are our best estimates; they can vary depending on conditions, and the size and pace of a group. If you have any questions, call the leader. **Temperatures above 90 degrees and steady rain cancels, but intermittent drizzle does not. You will *not* be notified.** **Bring water. Wear hiking boots, preferably waterproof with good soles and traction devices and bring poles (optional).** Dogs are not allowed on hikes unless specified. These hikes are publicized first to SMC members and then advertised to the public one week before a hike. There is a limit of 25 participants, so pre-registration is required at least two days before a hike to sign the liability waiver online and allow lists to be sent to hike leaders. If you have registered and then find you cannot attend, please cancel your order online. **Repeated no shows without prior cancellation will result in removal from list.** **To become a current member visit [[https://www.somocon.org/membership/](https://www.somocon.org/membership/)]([https://www.somocon.org/membership/](https://www.somocon.org/membership/)).**

Shirley Chisholm State Park Shore Clean Up & Hike with NYS Parks and AMC

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001BhkD2AS/act00022030) for this FREE event!** **🌿 Get Outside for New York Climate Week: Hike, Restore & Connect at Shirley Chisholm State Park** Join the **Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)** and **New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation** for an inspiring afternoon outdoors as we celebrate New York Climate Week—right here in one of New York City’s most unique and scenic state parks. This special event is all about **connecting with nature, caring for our parks, and building community**. Whether you’re brand new to hiking or a seasoned outdoor lover, you’re welcome here—no experience needed. Appropriate for everyone ages 5 years old and up. Together with Park educators, we’ll explore the beauty of Shirley Chisholm State Park through a **guided naturalist walk**, roll up our sleeves for a **hands-on shoreline cleanup**, and spend time **connecting** with fellow New Yorkers who care about the outdoors. Along the way, you’ll learn about the park’s ecology, history of its transformation from landfill to park, discover ways to steward these shared spaces, and leave having made a real impact. 🌞 **What to expect:** * 10:00-10:30 am Welcome & Interpretive Naturalist Share * 10:30-11:30 am Shoreline Clean Up * 11:30-11:45 am Break * 11:45-1:00 pm Trail Walk & Community 🌞 **What to bring:** * Sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks 🌞 **What to wear:** * Sturdy shoes, weather appropriate clothing, long pants, and sun/rain protective clothing 🌞 **Where to meet:** * Meet Time: 9:45am * Meeting Place: Fountain Avenue Entrance Patio, located behind the parking lot behind the Blue trailer with the butterfly on it 🌞 **How to get there:** * Take the A or C subway to Euclid Station and take the Q8 bus towards Spring Creek Gateway Mall via 101 Avenue or walk 20 minutes to the Fountain Avenue Entrance. Bike racks are available; bring a lock. * Driving Instructions: [Fountain Avenue Entrance](https://www.google.com/maps?q=40.65460044,-73.86011178) [Learn more about Shirley Chisholm State Park - NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation](https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/shirley-chisholm-state-park) [Learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Club](https://www.outdoors.org/) AMC Health Advisory: Covid and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in our communities. Do not participate in this activity if you, or someone who you have recently been in contact with, is either infected or symptomatic. AMC Leaders: Eileen Yin & Dale Henderson

Shirley Chisholm State Park Shore Clean Up & Hike with NYS Parks & AMC

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001BhkD2AS/act00022030) for this FREE event!** **🌿 Get Outside for New York Climate Week: Hike, Restore & Connect at Shirley Chisholm State Park** Join the **Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)** and **New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation** for an inspiring afternoon outdoors as we celebrate New York Climate Week—right here in one of New York City’s most unique and scenic state parks. This special event is all about **connecting with nature, caring for our parks, and building community**. Whether you’re brand new to hiking or a seasoned outdoor lover, you’re welcome here—no experience needed. Appropriate for everyone ages 5 years old and up. Together with Park educators, we’ll explore the beauty of Shirley Chisholm State Park through a **guided naturalist walk**, roll up our sleeves for a **hands-on shoreline cleanup**, and spend time **connecting** with fellow New Yorkers who care about the outdoors. Along the way, you’ll learn about the park’s ecology, history of its transformation from landfill to park, discover ways to steward these shared spaces, and leave having made a real impact. 🌞 **What to expect:** * 10:00-10:30 am Welcome & Interpretive Naturalist Share * 10:30-11:30 am Shoreline Clean Up * 11:30-11:45 am Break * 11:45-1:00 pm Trail Walk & Community 🌞 **What to bring:** * Sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks 🌞 **What to wear:** * Sturdy shoes, weather appropriate clothing, long pants, and sun/rain protective clothing 🌞 **Where to meet:** * Meet Time: 9:45am * Meeting Place: Fountain Avenue Entrance Patio, located behind the parking lot behind the Blue trailer with the butterfly on it 🌞 **How to get there:** * Take the A or C subway to Euclid Station and take the Q8 bus towards Spring Creek Gateway Mall via 101 Avenue or walk 20 minutes to the Fountain Avenue Entrance. Bike racks are available; bring a lock. * Driving Instructions: [Fountain Avenue Entrance](https://www.google.com/maps?q=40.65460044,-73.86011178) [Learn more about Shirley Chisholm State Park - NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation](https://parks.ny.gov/visit/state-parks/shirley-chisholm-state-park) [Learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Club](https://www.outdoors.org/) AMC Health Advisory: Covid and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in our communities. Do not participate in this activity if you, or someone who you have recently been in contact with, is either infected or symptomatic.

Central Park Bird Walk - Bluebirds!

Central Park Bird Walk - Paid event $20/person Beginners Welcome! We will be looking for eastern bluebirds that migrate through our area at this time of year. They will be eating berries, brightly colored, orange and red, and it will truly be a fall experience. We will also be looking for Hawks, Eagles, and owls. And other fall migrants. Pay by Venmo @ Deb-Becker-8 PayPal editconsul@aol.com Or in person with cash.

Volunteer open training - ALL LEVELS

You can paddle on your own, or receive some instruction from basic to advance strokes. Please sign up for up to one training per week, unless you are the trainer. Let others have fun! The host will move you to "Not going" if you sign up for more than one training per week. We'll check that folks have signed the annual waiver. Please sign ahead of time and keep the email confirmation, click [here](https://link.hobokencoveboathouse.org/waiver)[.](https://app.waiversign.com/e/5c01c8bb33b77b2595e6fdfa/doc/695a606c38aa3d0012b5747c?event=none) Please be on time and come prepared with the following: \*Quick drying clothes * Close toe water shoes * Change of clothes * Towel * Sunscreen, hat * Water in a reusable bottle PREREQUISITES TO RSVP \*You have volunteered at least 4 embayment shifts in 2026

MKC + Paddle against current: Intermediate volunteer trip

*This trip is open to those who have volunteered in 2026 during our **public kayaking days.*** Once the RSVP opens, you will be placed on a waitlist until the host reviews your volunteer status and to make sure you completed the qualifications below. *** **MKC Intermediate volunteer trip: 4 miles total PLUS an extra paddle north against current** Let's paddle across the Hudson to visit our friends at MKC! After we launch from Pier 84, let's work off whatever we ate by heading north against building ebb, then float home. **PREREQUISITES TO RSVP:** 1. volunteered **AT LEAST** 4 shifts in 2026 during our free kayaking days AND 2. Completed at least 2 trainings in 2026 with our boathouse AND 3. Completed an intermediate time trial AND 4. You completed a 4+ mile round trip in 2026 in which you showed control of your kayak/SUP/OC and found it easy to stay toward the front of the group **COME PREPARED:** * Temperature appropriate clothing - neoprene or drysuit + non cotton layers (you may be able to borrow a drysuit) * Something warm to put on when we land * Water * Food if you plan to picnic or cash/credit to buy food there. * Sunscreen * Hat * Change of dry clothes for when we return * Anything else you may need to spend 2+ hours paddling! **CRAFT:** * Sit on top - Nope! * Sea Kayak - Only if completed a wet exit and show control of your kayak * OC1/OC2 - Ke Aloha ***supporting*** paddlers with a Ke Aloha coach approval (have coach contact host) * SUP - Only if completed a 4+ mile trip with our boathouse * Surfski - Only if completed a 4+ mile trip with our boathouse **TIMELINE:** 7:00 AM Arrive at the boathouse **7:15 AM Safety briefing hard cutoff to arrive. Whoever does not make it by this time will not be able to join** 7:45 AM Move boats to the beach 8:00 AM Depart from HCCB 9:00 AM Arrive at MKC 9:15 AM Land and stash boats 90 minutes to eat and relax 10:45 AM Meet at boats, prepare gear, return safety briefing 11:00 AM Depart from MKC & head north against current 11:45 AM Turn around, head south 12:45 PM Arrive at HCCB 1:15 PM Clean and put away equipment 1:45 PM Trip ends *** **[NOAA predicted current at Pier 92](https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/noaacurrents/predictions.html?id=NYH1927_13&begin_date=2026-11-07&date-range=daily&date-timeUnits=am%2Fpm&date-interval=MAX_SLACK&units=english&time-zone=LST_LDT&threshold=leEq&thresholdValue=)** 2026-11-07 6:50 AM flood 1.69 2026-11-07 9:55 AM slack - 2026-11-07 1:19 PM ebb -2.58 HCCB is completely volunteer run. Our guides generously take time out of their busy schedules to run trips and trainings. If you RSVP yes, please consider this a **commitment to attend**. If you cancel at the last minute or no-show, you take a spot away from someone else or prevent a trip/training from happening. We understand that life happens, so if you must cancel close to the start of a trip or training, please change your RSVP to “Not Going” and message the host(s) or comment in the chat. Here are our guidelines about cancelations and no-shows: \* *For a trip, please cancel prior to 8:00 PM the day before*\* the trip. \* *For a training, please cancel at least 6 hours*\* before the training. \* If you do not cancel before the cancelation cutoff time, you will be marked as a no-show. \* Hosts reserve the right to deprioritize you on waitlists after the second no-show of the year.

Plant native species with NYC Parks at Forest Park 🪴🪏

Plant native species with NYC Parks at Forest Park 🪴🪏 Saturday, November 14th 9:45am to 1pm 9:45am to 10am, meet at Buddy Monument At Myrtle Ave and Park Lane South 10am to 1pm, volunteer Bring a water bottle and closed toed shoes RSVP required Link to volunteer with NYC Parks: https://www.nycgovparks.org/events/2026/11/14/native-planting-at-forest-park Google maps link to Buddy Monument: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DpagsaLoD4VRK1pJA Of course, please reach out if you have any questions! The not so fun rule on RSVPs Please only RSVP if you think you can make it and adjust your RSVP asap if anything changes (as there are other people who would like your spot). Two no shows or cancellations within 6 hours results in a 4 month ban. I will send a reminder 24 hours in advance to the group Thanks and can't wait to see you!

Poconos retreat: Various Nature and Rejuvenation activities

Caven Point, NJ. Wildlife Photowalk

We are going to Caven Point natural reserve, between Port Liberty and Liberty State Park. Please note: There is no public transport available. But for those arriving by car there is parking. Parking is free and so is the entrance to the park. Caven Point is an ecologically unique area; habitat for many species including migrating birds. It features sandy beach, saltwater marshland, and boardwalk trail. it is one of two wetlands in NYC to have survived in its natural state. It is an important site for native birds nesting as it is positioned right on the Hudson River Estuary, serving as a critical late-fall pitstop and overwintering ground. Waterfowl usually spotted in November is the brant, mallard, horned grebe, and peregrine falcon among others. Bring waterproof boots and telephoto lenses.