THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE JANUARY / … · iin New York Cityn New York City ... Funding for the $11.4 million project was provided by Mayor Bloomberg ($6.3 million),

Artist: Anne Yen| ©2009 NYC Department of Parks & Recreation

Includes

CALENDAR OF

URBAN PARK RANGER

CHILDREN PROGRAMS

in New York Cityin New York City THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE JANUARY / FEBRUARY / MARCH 2010OutdoorsOutdoors

2 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

Outdoor NewsCONCRETE PLANT PARK OPENING SIGNALS A NEW VISION FOR

PUBLIC SPACE

On October 12, Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe joined Deputy

Bronx Borough President Aurelia Greene, Council Member Maria

del Carmen Arroyo, Assembly Member Marcos Crespo, Community

Board 2 District Manager John Robert, Alexie Torres-Fleming,

Executive Director of Youth Ministries for Peace and Justice, and

Bronx River Alliance chairperson Joan Byron to cut the ribbon on

Concrete Plant Park, situated along the western shore of the Bronx

River between Westchester Avenue & Bruckner Boulevard.

The seven-acre park, New York City’s newest waterfront public

space, is the latest link to be developed as part of the Bronx River

Greenway. A reclamation of a former industrial wasteland, it now

includes a multi-use recreational path for running, cycling, and

rollerblading, and is a model for 21st century vision in parks across

the country.

The new park features a waterfront promenade, kayak/canoe

launch, green lawns, a reading circle, native tidal wetland

plantings, landscaping, and established park entrances at

Westchester Avenue and the Bruckner Boulevard. Silos from the

old concrete plant remain as sculptural elements and reminders of

the site’s past. Funding for the $11.4 million project was provided

by Mayor Bloomberg ($6.3 million), a federal grant secured by

Congressman José E. Serrano ($3.9 million), mitigation funds from

the construction of the Croton Water Filtration Plant through the

New York City Department of Environmental Protection and the

Municipal Water Finance Authority ($592,000), Bronx Borough

President ($540,000), and a grant from the Recreational Trails

Program of the NY State Offi ce of Parks, Recreation, and Historic

Preservation ($100,000).

The site of Concrete Plant Park served as a concrete mixing plant

which operated from the late 1940s through 1987. Concrete

Plant Park is the latest link to be developed along the Bronx River

Greenway, a ribbon of multi-use pathway linked by waterfront

parks. When complete, the Bronx River Greenway will span

23 miles and extend the full length of the Bronx River, from

Westchester

County through

the Bronx to the

East River. Parks

and its non-

profi t partner

the Bronx

River Alliance

are working

to complete

the New York

City portion of

the greenway.

Approximately

6.5 miles of

New York City’s

portion of the

greenway are currently in place with the full portion anticipated to

be completed within the next fi ve years.

in New York Cityin New York Cityin New York City Planning Sarah Aucoin, Director

Programs Bonnie McGuire, Deputy Director

Operations Richard Simon, Deputy Director

Programs Marta Arroyo, Program Manager

Graphic Design Elizabeth Green, Graphic Artist

Research Shalini Beath, Grants Manager

Urban Park Rangers • 1234 Fifth Avenue • New York City 10029

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If you’re a kid, what’s

better than munching on

a chocolate chip cricket

cookie? Or seining in a

salt marsh? Or rowing

on the Bronx River in a

handmade boat? It’s a

great way to spend your

summer. But if you’re a kid

with a disability, chances

are you won’t get to do

many of these things.

City Access New York is

a non-profi t organization

that focuses on bringing

mainstream resources

into the lives of people

with disabilities. Among

the many programs that City Access New York (CANY) implements,

we are especially proud to partner with the Urban Park Rangers

(UPR) to provide Citywide Science Scholarships to youngsters who

are visually impaired or blind. For the past two years, CANY and the

Rangers have provided more than 75 scholarships for Ranger summer

camps and school holiday programs. Best of all, CANY and the Rangers

worked together to adapt content and develop inclusive settings so

that kids with and without disabilities can learn and play together

through accessible hands-on science in real world settings.

Citywide Science Scholarships are part of a larger inclusive project

called Adapted Arts & Science for EVS Students. Educational Vision

Services, or EVS, is the largest education program in the world serving

children who are blind or visually impaired, and serves about 1,100

students in New York City. Adapted Arts & Science also provides year-

long school-based residencies in social studies and science adapted

to the needs of EVS students, and aligned to state learning standards.

Since 2005, Adapted Arts & Science has also co-hosted a week-long

inclusive science camp, Summer Science, with its partner Rocking

the Boat — an environmental education organization located along

the Bronx River. Like the Citywide Science Scholarships, Summer

Science is an inclusive program where EVS students attend on-the-

water programming alongside sighted peers whom they invite.

Adapted Arts & Science is made possible by generous support from

the J.E. and Z.B. Butler Foundation, the Reader’s Digest Partnership for

Sight Foundation, and from the Foundation for the Supporters of the

Disabled. If you would like to view a new video documenting Adapted

Arts & Science, please visit www.viddler.com/explore/cityaccess/

videos/1/.

Adapted Arts & Science is just one of many collaborative projects

that CANY provides for people with disabilities in NYC. Our programs

for people of all ages with developmental or sensory disabilities,

promote inclusion and lifelong access to educational, vocational and

cultural opportunities. We work collaboratively with our partners to

identify barriers to participation in schools and in the community, and

adapt the content and delivery of programs to diverse needs. Please

contact us at [email protected] if you would like to learn

more about CANY, or visit our website at www.cityaccessny.org.

The Urban Park Rangers encourage all New Yorkers

to visit city parks and connect with the natural world.

Parks’ goal is to go beyond mere compliance with the

Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) to provide greater

access and increased opportunities for recreation and participation

by removing obstacles to participation, and through strategic

partnerships. For more information on accessability in New York

City parks, visit us on the web at www.nyc.gov/parks.

Message from: Ken Struve, Executive Director, City Access New York

Photographer: Malcolm Pinckney | © NYC Department of Parks & Recreation

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 3

By Bonnie McGuire, Deputy Director, Urban Park Rangers

Early on in my career as an Urban Park Ranger, I was leading a group

of 25 Junior Ranger summer campers around the Salt Marsh Nature

Trail in Marine Park. I was trying to teach them about the importance

of salt marshes. It was a very clear, summer day; a great day to spot

a wide variety of animals in the marsh. At the beginning of the

trail one camper screamed “Look at that thing!” All the campers

crowded around him, while I made my way over. Expecting to see a

snake, turtle, or possibly something dead, I was slightly taken aback

to fi nally discover the source of their excitement. It was a woolly

caterpillar, the larval stage of the Isabella Tiger moth. And that was it;

the end of my salt marsh program. In the blink of an eye, the program

shifted from what I wanted to talk about to what they wanted to hear

about. For the rest of the hour we had together, we talked about

caterpillars, moths, butterfl ies and their life cycles, what they eat,

how they fl y,

where they

live and even

if they sleep

or not. Where I

could, I threw

in tidbits

about the salt

marsh and

the oceans,

but our focus

was where

they wanted

it to be, on that woolly caterpillar. As we hiked around the mile-long

trail, we stopped and checked out each of the 104 woolly caterpillars

on the trail that day. We talked about the width of the brown stripe

versus the black stripes, and I explained that according to legend,

the narrower brown stripe meant the winter would be a cold one.

At each stop, we closely watched the caterpillar make its way across

the three-foot wide trail. Two campers were chosen each time to

make sure the caterpillar made it safely across the path and didn’t get

stepped on, while the others observed and tried to count the steps it

took!

By the time we got back to the nature center, I didn’t want to see

another woolly bear caterpillar in my life. But as a Park Ranger, not

to mention and an academically trained entomologist, I was pretty

happy about sharing those moments with the campers. And I’m quite

sure they will remember that experience for a while, if not the rest of

their lives! Later in the summer some of the campers came back to

camp, and they were still fascinated by those woolly caterpillars.

To see a camper’s eyes light up the fi rst time they see a woolly

caterpillar, green frog, egret, or garter snake, catch their fi rst fi sh,

shoot with a bow and arrow, paddle a canoe, or pitch a tent is one

of the greatest parts of my job as an Urban Park Ranger. And making

these activities available right here in New York City is an honor and a

privilege.

Junior Ranger Summer Day Camp is off ered at Blue Heron Nature

Center in Staten Island, Salt Marsh Nature Center in Brooklyn, Inwood

Hill Nature Center in Manhattan, and Crotona Park Nature Center

in the Bronx. The camp off ers the best of the Urban Park Ranger

experience, combining instructional elements (ecology, birds, insects,

plants, trees, reptiles and amphibians, fi sh, Native American Pathways

and much more) with hands-on recreational elements (canoeing,

fi shing, seining, orienteering, archery, and more) and park restoration

projects (tree plantings, native plant gardens and more). Campers

earn patches to celebrate each accomplishment. The week-long

program culminates in an overnight camp-out in the park where

campers pitch their own tents, make s’mores, and go on a night hike

in search of nocturnal creatures!

For more information please check out the website at

www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers or call 212-360-2774.

A Child’s Sense of Wonder

For more information visit our website: www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers

Junior Ranger Day Camp Summer 2010 (ages 8-11)

Your child can paddle a canoe in quiet blue waters edged

with bright green grass and

explore nature from a whole new perspective.

Junior Rangers participate in fun & educational activities

and games, immersed in a natural park setting.

A summer full of fun!

Located in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Bronx and Staten Island.

Monday through Friday, 9 am - 4:30 pm.

Extended hours: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm.

We accept Human Resources Administration (HRA) vouchers.

• maps and compasses

• insects

• fish

• birds

• plants and trees

• conservation

• ecology

• wilderness survival

• Native American exploration

• fishing

• canoeing

• archery

• insect collecting

• bird watching

• planting trees

• building shelters

• games

• crafts

• hikes

• seining

• scavenger hunts

and much more!

© Robert Hambley | Dreamstime.com

Urban Park RangersEXPLORER PROGRAMS

City of New YorkParks & Recreation

Michael R. Bloomberg, MayorAdrian Benepe, Commissioner

Arts and CultureSee, hear, and participate in crafts, poetry, writing, dance, acting, readings, photography and open microphone nights in our beautiful parks and nature centers.

BirdingLearn everything you need to know about birds. Programs highlight different bird types, special park areas and seasonal highlights.

CampingEnjoy a night sleeping under the stars in New York City. Space is limited! Programs require RESERVATIONS. Visit www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers/reservations for more information.

CanoeingLearn to canoe and explore New York City’s waterways. First-come, first-served, unless otherwise noted. Bring a hat, water, sunscreen, and a snack. Ages 8 and up. Be prepared to get wet and dirty.

FishingCatch a fish! Freshwater and saltwater fishing available. Equipment provided, catch and release only.

Hiking & BikingAdventure and leisure hikes and bike rides. Nature walks, historic tours, and greenbelt rides.

HistoryLearn about the important role of our parkland in New York City history and hear the fantastic stories the Urban Park Rangers have to tell.

Kids ActivitiesJoin us for a variety of children-centered activities. Nature crafts, sing-a-longs, play dates, storytime, and more! Check for special out of school and vacation programs. Visit our Parkids NYC website at www.nycgovparks.org/kids/ to find fun online kids activities.

Nature ExplorationLearn about plants, wildlife, or stars in the sky. Bring binoculars if you have them, and a flashlight for evening programs.

Special EventsOur Special Events celebrate nature and are great fun for all ages!

Survival & Orienteering Learn to survive in the wild. From using a map and compass to knot-tying and shelter-building, the Rangers have workshops to help you safely enjoy your outdoors experiences.

MillionTreesNYCA citywide initiative to plant and care for one million new trees in New York City by 2017.

Adventure CourseThe Alley Pond Park Adventure Course features ropes course activities that promote team-building and problem–solving skills. Free public programs on Sundays through November. Visit www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers for more information.

BRONXCrotona Nature Center, seasonal (CNC): Crotona Park. Enter the park at Charlotte St. & Crotona Park East. 718.378.2061

Orchard Beach Nature Center, seasonal (OBNC): Pelham Bay Park. Section 2 of Orchard Beach. 718.885.3466

Pelham Bay Ranger Station (PBRS): Pelham Bay Park. Bruckner Blvd. & Wilkinson Ave. 718.885.3467

Van Cortlandt Nature Center (VCNC): Van Cortlandt Park. Enter the park at W. 246th St. & Broadway. 718.548.0912

BROOKLYN Salt Marsh Nature Center (SMNC): Marine Park. East 33rd St. & Avenue U. 718.421.2021

Fort Greene Visitor Center (FGVC): Fort Greene Park. Enter the park at Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park. 718.722.3218

MANHATTANBelvedere Castle (BC): Central Park. 79th St., mid-park. 212.628.2345

Dana Discovery Center (DDC): Central Park. 110th St. & Lenox Ave. 212.860.1376

Inwood Hill Nature Center (IHNC): Inwood Hill Park. Enter park at W. 218th St. & Indian Road. 212.304.2365 or 212.304.3401

QUEENS

Alley Pond Park Adventure Center (APPAC): Alley Pond Park. Enter at Winchester Blvd., under the Grand Central Parkway. 718.217.6034 or 718.217.4685

Forest Park Visitor Center (FPVC): Forest Park. Woodhaven Blvd. & Forest Park Drive. 718.846.2731

Fort Totten Visitors Center (FTVC): Fort Totten Park. Enter park at fort entrance, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. and follow signs. 718.352.1769

STATEN ISLAND

Blue Heron Nature Center (BHNC): Blue Heron Park. 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road & Hylan Boulevard. 718.967.3542

High Rock Ranger Station (HRRS): High Rock Park. Park in the lot at the end of Nevada Avenue, off Rockland Ave., and follow signs. 718.667.6042.

RANGER STATIONS & NATURE CENTERS

4 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

Saturday, January 2Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Once a month, every month, come bird with us! Bring your own binoculars if you have them.

Sunday, January 3Siwanoy Trail Adventure / Pelham Bay Park 10 a.m. / Bartow-Pell Mansion, 895 Shore Rd. The Siwanoy people used these trails for hunting and gathering. Join us as we walk in their footsteps, “hunting” for wildlife and gathering memories.

Saturday, January 9Family Scavenger Hunt / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Search for the hidden treasures on the wooded trails of Van Cortlandt Park. Fun for the whole family. Prizes!

Sunday, January 10Seal-Shore Safari / Pelham Bay Park 2:30 p.m. / OBNC Seals hang out by the beach between December and March and you’ll get to see them during low tide. Wear warm and comfortable clothes. Bring your own binoculars if you have them..

Saturday, January 16Winter Waterfowl / Van Cortlandt Park 10 a.m. / VCNC A great variety of ducks and other birds spend the winter at the Van Cortland Lake. Learn some interesting facts about them.

Sunday, January 17Wacky Winter Waterfowl / Pelham Bay Park 10 a.m. / PBRS Join us the third Sunday of every month, for the next three months. Bring your own binoculars if you have them.

Saturday, January 23Frozen Fungus Among-Us / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Who would think that dead tree trunks, fallen logs, and rotting stumps could be exciting places to explore in the winter?

Sunday, January 24 Whooo Said That? / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / OBNC Winter is the best time to see wild owls in New York City. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Saturday, January 30Secrets of Snowflakes / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC What makes snowflakes so special? Bring your family and find out. Snowflake crafts for kids.

Sunday, January 31Winter Survival / Crotona Park 11 a.m. / CNC If you were lost in a winter wilderness, how would you survive? Join us for tips and tricks to get by in the cold!

Saturday, February 6Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Once a month, every month, come bird with us! Bring your own binoculars if you have them.

Sunday, February 7Seal-Shore Safari / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / OBNC Seals hang out by the beach between December and March and you’ll get to see them during low tide. Wear warm and comfortable clothes. Bring your own binoculars if you have them.

Saturday, February 13Valentine’s Day Eco-Crafts / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Get the creative juices flowing as we look to nature to inspire crafts for your loved ones.

Sunday, February 14

Whooo Said That? / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / OBNC Winter is the best time to see wild owls in New York City. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Saturday, February 20Winter Weeds / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC Join us for an exploration of the shapes and textures of wildflowers in the winter.

Sunday, February 21Wacky Winter Waterfowl / Pelham Bay Park 10 a.m. / OBNC Join us the third Sunday of every month. Bring your own binoculars if you have them.

Saturday, February 27Winter Waterfowl / Van Cortlandt Park 10 a.m. / VCNC A great variety of ducks and other birds spend the winter at the Van Cortland Lake. Learn some interesting facts about them.

Sunday, February 28Winter Tree I.D. / Crotona Park 2 p.m. / CNC Test your tree knowledge, as we learn how to identify trees without their leaves.

Saturday, March 6

Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Once a month, every month, come bird with us! Bring your own binoculars if you have them.

Sunday, March 7River Views/ Riverdale Park 11 a.m. / Corner of Henry Hudson Parkway, southbound service Rd. and W. 232 St. Join us for some birding and enjoy the beautiful river vistas. Bring your own binoculars if you have them.

Saturday, March 13Plants Alive in a Cold World / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Learn how plants survive the cold winter months.

Sunday, March 14Whooo said that? / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / OBNC Winter is the best time to see wild owls in New York City. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Saturday, March 20Springtime Meanderings / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC Dust off your hiking boots and help us welcome springtime!

Sunday, March 21Backyard Birding / Crotona Park 10 a.m. / CNC Crotona Park is home to many species of birds. Join us as we help you to identify them. Don’t forget your binoculars if you have them!

Saturday, March 27Early Spring Migrants / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / Broadway Ave. and Mosholu Ave. Here come the warblers! The very first of the migratory birds are coming through, and we’re going to find them!

Sunday, March 28Hike to Split Rock / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / Split Rock Golf House, on Shore Road, near Bartow-Pell Mansion Join us on a beautiful hike to Split Rock while learning about Anne Hutchinson and indigenous people of the area.

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean

you should stay inside — get out and enjoy the

outdoors. The Bronx Rangers will introduce

you to all the borough has to off er, from winter

hikes to winter birding and more.

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers WINTER 2010 5

Saturday, January 2Early Morning Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC

Winter Tree I.D. / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Join us for a stroll around the park as we identifying over 40 species of trees dotting the landscape of Brooklyn’s Oldest Park.

Resolutions Kept! / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Wellhouse Drive in front of the Maryland 400 Monument Keep your New Year’s fitness goals in mind by coming on a rigorous hike up the highest elevation in Prospect Park.

Sunday, January 3Wonderful Walt Whitman / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Walt Whitman was a man of many passions and convictions. Chief among them was the desire for green-space in the area today known as Fort Greene. Join us as we celebrate one of driving forces behind this park.

Book Blitz / Marine Park 3 p.m. / SMNC It’s back! Join us for our third annual book blitz at the Salt Marsh Nature Center. Every Sunday we will read an environmentally themed book and follow up with an activity. Recommended for children 7- 12.

Monday, January 4Monday Night Lecture: Marine Park / Marine Park 7 p.m. / SMNC To ring in the New Year, we’re holding a symposium on our new park. With the nature trail closed and winter well-underway join members of the Army Corps of Engineers and the Parks Department’s own Natural Resources Group to discuss the exciting future of Marine Park. The talk will range from invasive species removal to shifting wildlife habitat. Come with thoughtful questions and an open mind.

Saturday, January 9

Early Morning Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC

Saturday, January 9 cont’dWinter Wilderness Survival / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Do you know how to build a fire without matches? Do you know how to build a shelter? Now that winter is in full force, join us and learn the secrets to surviving old man winter in the wild.

Forever Evergreen / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Picnic House, West Dr. and Third St. They’re more than holiday decorations… Learn to identify the many types of pine, fir, and spruce trees in the park!

Sunday, January 10…And they called it Macaroni! / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Take a fresh pasta prospective of how British forces routed America’s troops in the Battle of Brooklyn.

Book Blitz / Marine Park 3 p.m. / SMNC See January 3 listing.


Journey Through Time: Fort Greene / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC This edition of our popular walking tour will showcase the neighborhood surrounding the park. We may even take a peek inside the Prison Ships Martyrs. Wear comfortable shoes; the tour will last approximately 1½ hours.

Flower of the Month: The Carnation / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Flowers have long been a part of many cultures of the world. During this first installment, come to learn about the biology and cultural importance of the carnation.

Sunday, January 17African Americans and the American Revolution / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we’ll examine the often overlooked contributions of African Americans in the fight for America’s independence.

History Club: Hot dogs / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Join us as we explore the history of the hot dog: Coney Island’s most iconic food item. We’ll sample some of the finer incarnations of the fantastic frankfurter and wonder at this sausage’s miraculous journey: from German peasant food to mass-produced pick of the American patriot.

Sunday, January 17 cont’dBook Blitz / Marine Park 3 p.m. / SMNC See January 3 listing.


Fort Greene’s Founders / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC This program looks at the historic figures that shaped this park. Join us for a look at the pivotal players in Fort Greene’s storied past and take a peek inside the Prison Ships Martyrs Monument.

Winter Plant Identification / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Audubon Center, East Dr. and Lincoln Rd. Just because there are no leaves doesn’t mean you can’t identify plants! Learn to use the winter characteristics of trees and shrubs to find out what they are.

Saturday Night Live: Open Mic Story Slam /Marine Park 7 p.m. / SMNC The theme tonight will be Saltiness. All participants will have five minutes to tell a story related to the theme of saltiness. It can be funny; it can be sad; but it must be true. Contestants will drop their names into a hat and a lucky ten will be called to the front to tell their story. All are welcome.

Sunday, January 24Trains & Trolleys / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Remember the days of streetcars and els? Head back to the good old days, when trolleys clattered and clanged along the streets of Brooklyn.



Marine Mammal Watch / Coney Island Beach 11 a.m. / Boardwalk at W 10 Street The beach may be empty of all its human swimmers, but don’t forget about the seals, whales, and dolphins! Come learn about local marine mammals and try and catch a glimpse of them.

Sunday, January 31 Fanning the Flames / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC NYC has been the site of many massive fires, from the earliest colonial times up until today. Learn all about them.


Monday, February 1Monday Night Lecture: Salt Marshes: A Natural and Unnatural History /Marine Park 7 p.m. / SMNC Marine Park plays host to one of science’s leading ladies; Dr. Judith Weis, Professor of Biological Sciences at Rutgers University and visiting scientist at the US Department of Environmental Protection. Dr. Weis has conducted extensive research on environmental stresses in estuaries and recently co-authored a book called Salt Marshes: A Natural and Unnatural History which seeks to explain the ecological function of places like Marine Park! She will offer a multimedia presentation on urban estuaries and answer questions.

This winter, take a walk back in time to

experience the American Revolution,

architectural marvels and more. The Brooklyn

Rangers will be your guide as you explore

Kings County.

6 www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERSOutdoorsOutdoors Outdoors in New York Cityin New York Cityin New York City

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Saturday, February 6Early Morning Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC

Redoubt Roundup / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Please join us as we discuss the history of the fortifications that have protected New York and her Harbor over the years.

Flower of the Month: The Iris / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Flowers have long been a part of many cultures of the world. During this second installment, please come to learn about the biology and cultural importance of the iris.

Sunday, February 7 Criminals, Cops and Capers / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Trace the roots of the modern NYPD from the night watchmen of Dutch Colonial times up to today’s high-tech enforcement techniques. Along the way, we’ll talk about some of the more colorful and unusual crimes and the people who committed them.

Surviving the winter / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Picnic House, Third St. and West Dr. Learn how the winter residents of Prospect Park survive the cold weather. Dress appropriately for cold weather while we are snug at home.


Marylanders, Marble Headers and Mad Men / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC The Battle of Brooklyn ripped through our backyard in August of 1776. Get to know the heroes and villains of this pitched battle.

Wild Romance / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Picnic House, Third St. and West Dr. Celebrate Valentine’s Day by learning about how animals court each other. Bring your sweetheart for this lovely hike.

Sunday, February 14Winter Waterfowl / Prospect Park 10 a.m. / Wollman Rink, Parking Lot and East Dr. Take a stroll around Prospect Lake while we look for some winter visitors to NYC. Bring your own binoculars and dress for the weather.

Nature Crafts for Kids / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn about nature as we explore the park for materials to use in our works of art. Geared for kids 4 - 12; must be accompanied by an adult.

History Club: The History of Valentine’s Day / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC From Roman martyrs to gangland massacres to greeting cards and candied hearts — Valentine’s Day has evolved into something at once romantic and ridiculous. Come on down for some candy and some fun reflections on a holiday that makes hardly any sense at all.

KIDS’ WEEK February 15-19

Kids’ Week at the Fort! / Fort Greene Park 10 a.m. / FGVC Schools out and the kids are bored. What to do? Come to Fort Greene to learn about history and nature, and then make crafts to take home. Ages 5-12.

MONDAY — Colonial Kids

TUESDAY — Insect Insanity

WEDNESDAY — Bird Brained

THURSDAY — Wild About Animals

FRIDAY — Native American Stories & Games

Kids’ Week at the Marsh! / Marine Park 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. / SMNC Spend mid-winter break with the Rangers exploring the salt marsh at Marine Park. Nature Walks, crafts, team-building activities, performances, and more. Morning and afternoon activities. Ages 12 and under.

MONDAY — Build a Bug 10 a.m. and Animal Tracks 1 p.m.

TUESDAY —Portable Adventure 10 a.m. and Create a Nature Collage 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAY — Owl Pellet Dissection 10 a.m. and Children’s Winter Nature Hike 1 p.m.

THURSDAY — Portable Adventure 10 a.m. and Backyard Bass Ice Fishing Derby 1 p.m.

FRIDAY — Build a Bird Feeder 10 a.m. and Fun with Map and Compass 1 p.m.


The Giving Trees / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC You will be surprised by how many different species of trees are located within the friendly confines of Fort Greene Park. Learn how these trees got their names, what they were used for in the past, and what they give us today.

Saturday, February 20 cont’dFamily Scavenger Hunt / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Wollman Rink, Parking Lot and East Drive Join us in a nature themed scavenger hunt in the Concert Grove. Prizes will be awarded to the winners!

Saturday Night Live: Game Night / Marine Park 6 p.m. / SMNC Put on your tin top hat, rev up your plastic car and get ready to roll the dice, its board game time! Bring your favorite game and a few contenders.

Sunday, February 21Presidential Secrets / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Learn little known facts about our Commanders in Chief. Then stick around to win prizes in our Presidential Trivia Contest.

Who, Who, Who Did I Eat? / Marine Park 1 p.m. /SMNC Find out what owls love to eat by dissecting owl pellets at the Salt Marsh Nature Center.


Tales from the Crypt / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Join us for a reading of portions from Recollections of the Jersey Prison Ships, as well as a profile of a few of the prison ship martyrs themselves.

Don’t Walk. Leap! / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Wellhouse Drive in front of the Maryland 400 Monument Keep your fitness goals in mind by coming on a rigorous hike up the highest elevation Prospect Park.

Sunday, February 28Brooklyn’s Beautiful Brownstones & Buildings / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Take a virtual tour of the borough’s architecturally interesting buildings. From brownstones to churches to mansions and cottages, we have them all.

Evolution of the Field Guide / Marine Park 11 a.m. / SMNC Take a tour through time as we take a look at how field guides have changed over the years. From amateur to advanced and birds to shells, field guides have opened up a whole new world for many of us.

Monday, March 1 Monday Night Lecture: The Hudson School of Painting / Marine Park 7 p.m. /SMNC “Art and the Environment: Looking at Environmental Narratives in American Works of Art from Cole to Hopper.” These visual narratives convey intertwining strands of meaning as critical today as they were yesterday. Dr. Tara Weiss will interpret the subject matter from a post-industrial stance. Among the themes to be considered are conceptions of the environment — symbolic, visionary, contradictory and damaging.

Saturday, March 6Early Morning Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC

Nature Crafts for Kids / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn about nature as we explore the park for materials to use in our works of art. Geared for ages 4 -12; must be accompanied by an adult.


Saturday, March 6 cont’dFlower of the Month: The Daffodil / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Flowers have long been a part of many cultures of the world. During this third installment, come to learn about the biology and cultural importance of the daffodil.

Sunday, March 7Women’s History Tea Party / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Let’s hear it for the girls! In honor of Women’s History Month, we’ll discuss how our foremothers shaped our history. Enjoy a cup of tea and tea sandwiches and share stories of your favorite women.

Native American Storytelling / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Did you know Marine Park was once home to a tribe of Native Americans? Known for many talents, their story telling is some of the best. All ages are welcomed.


Winter Waterfowl / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Wollman Rink, Parking Lot and East Dr. See February 14 listing.

Ides and Tides/ Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC If you don’t know what causes the tides, this is the chance for you to learn! Learn about shore ecology and the unique food web found here at Marine Park.

Sunday, March 14Irish History / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Join us for a cup of Irish Tea as we trace the history of the “Old Sod” from the ancient Celts to the present day’s Celtic Tiger. We’ll also look at how Erin’s sons and daughters shaped the US.

Bridge and Arch Tour / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Audubon Center, East Dr. and Lincoln Rd. Take a stroll as we look at the architecture put in place by Olmstead and Vaux to give this park a more spacious feel. Wear comfortable shoes, dress weather appropriately.

History Club: Let’s Go Gowanus! / Gowanus Canal 1 p.m. / Second St. and the Gowanus Canal Bundle up and prepare yourself for an urban adventure. Today, we’ll explore the site of Brooklyn’s westernmost waterway: The Gowanus Canal. From teeming tidal inlet to potential superfund site –the Gowanus has experienced a storied metamorphosis from natural estuary to poisoned wasteland. Thanks to dogged efforts by the city and the community, it’s coming back and plans are in the works for extensive ecological restoration.

Saturday, March 20

Early Morning Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC

Redoubt Roundup / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC See February 6 listing.

Trackers Delight / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Join the Rangers to learn how to identify animal tracks. Find out the species, behavior, and size of these animals!

Saturday Night Live: Jam at the Marsh / Marine Park 6 p.m. / SMNC Bring a harp, a trombone or a jug—we take all comers. It’s a night for jamming with strangers or collaborating with friends.

Sunday, March 21Spring Fever! / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Celebrate the first day of spring with a walk around the park to see what’s new, and then head back to the Visitors Center to create nature crafts. All materials are free. Program is geared for ages 4 - 12; must have an adult present.

Here Comes the Sun / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC It’s the Vernal Equinox! What is the science behind the number of daylight hours? Come learn about the solar system and earth science!


The McWalk / McCarren Park 1 p.m. / Bedford Ave. and North 12 St. Join us on a walk from McCarren to McGolrick Park and discover their past, present, and future.

Origami Animal Art / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Join us for a lesson on origami and make your own paper pieces of art! What creature will you create?

Sunday, March 28Journey through Time: Brooklyn Brews / Bushwick 11 a.m. / Bushwick Ave. and Montrose Ave. We’re taking our popular Brooklyn Brews on the road! View Brewers’ Row, once the home of many brewing companies and sample some of the most architecturally interesting buildings in Bushwick.

Easter Egg Orienteering / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Picnic House, Third St. and West Dr. Learn the basics of how to use a compass and then set your skills to a test while searching for clues that will lead you to the hidden eggs! Fun for the whole family.

Sunday, March 28 cont’dBrooklyn Celebrates Baseball / Marine Park 7 p.m. / SMNC This year, we’ll join Columbia University Professor and Historian Lee Lowenfish in recalling the storied life of Branch Rickey. Rickey invented baseball’s “farms system” created full time spring training facilities and, most notably, integrated the game of baseball by signing Jackie Robinson to the Brooklyn Dodgers. Lowenfish, author of Branch Rickey: Baseball’s Ferocious Gentleman and Columbia University Lecturer, will offer a multimedia presentation regarding Rickey’s renowned role at the Dodgers. Hot dogs and trivia will be served up after the lecture courtesy of the Salt Marsh Alliance.

KIDS’ WEEK March 29-April 2

Kids’ Week at the Fort! / Fort Greene Park 10 a.m. / FGVC Schools out and the kids are bored. What to do? Come to Fort Greene to learn about history and nature, and then make crafts to take home. Ages 5-12.

MONDAY — It’s All Fun and (Colonial) Games

TUESDAY — Archaeology Adventure

WEDNESDAY — March of Time

THURSDAY — State Flags

FRIDAY — The Giving Tree

Kids’ Week at the Marsh! / Marine Park 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. / SMNC Spend mid-winter break with the Rangers exploring the salt marsh at Marine Park. Nature Walks, crafts, team-building activities, performances, and more. Morning and afternoon activities. Ages 12 and under.

MONDAY — Build a Bug 10 a.m. and Animal Tracks 1 p.m.

TUESDAY — Portable Adventure 10 a.m. and Create a Nature Collage 1 p.m.

WEDNESDAY — Owl Pellet Dissection 10 a.m. and Children’s Spring Nature Hike 1 p.m.

THURSDAY — Portable Adventure 10 a.m. and Backyard Bass Ice Fishing Derby 1 p.m.

FRIDAY — Build a Bird Feeder 10 a.m. and Fun with Map and Compass 1 p.m.


Sunday, January 3A Well Troddin’ Path / Riverside Park 1 p.m. / 72 St. and Riverside Dr. Ring in the New Year as you trod along the paths of Riverside Park and try to walk the entire length of the park.

Saturday, January 9Early Birding / Inwood Hill Park 8 a.m. / IHNC On our early morning bird walk through Inwood Hill Park we’ll be looking for winter waterfowl, woodpeckers, owls, and much more.

Sunday, January 10 Winter Tree I.D. / Central Park 2 p.m. / DDC Test your identification skills on a hike through the North Woods and study trees in their dormant state. Dress for the cold!

Saturday, January 16Park Clean-Up / Inwood Hill Park 8 a.m. / IHNC You never know what artifacts we may unearth in this historic park while you help keep the park beautiful.

Sunday, January 17Nature Scavenger Hunt / Central Park 1 p.m. / BC Put your nature knowledge to the test! Fun for kids of all ages.

Saturday, January 23Galileo’s Telescope with Jason Kendall / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC We will talk about who Galileo was, when he lived, why the telescope was such an important invention and discuss how his observations challenged the world. Then we will fast-forward to today, and see how the Hubble Space Telescope is doing the same thing. Length: 60 minutes. Appropriate for All Ages.

Sunday, January 24Winter Waterfowl Watch / Central Park 10 a.m. / BC Ducks and geese fly thousands of miles to spend the winter in New York City’s Central Park. Join us for a walk past our fresh water ponds to see what waterfowl are spending winter vacationing in NYC and learn about the amazing adaptations and journeys of these robust travelers. Dress for the cold and bring binoculars!

Saturday, January 30Advanced Hiking / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC Hike at a vigorous pace through the Inwood forest to Dyckman fields and over to Fort Tryon. Bring proper footwear and prepare for a challenge.

Kids Movie Night I / Inwood Hill Park 7 p.m. / IHNC Join us for our first installment of Kids Movie Night featuring “Charlotte’s Web”. There will be light refreshment served during the movie. To register, visit http://nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register on January 20. 20 Max

Sunday, January 31 Owl Watch / Central Park 5 p.m. / 100 St. and Central Park West It’s a great time of year to observe and enjoy raptors in NYC.

Sunday, February 7Winter Waterfowl Watch / Central Park 10 a.m. / BC See January 24 listing.

Saturday, February 13Eagle Watch / Inwood Hill Park 8 a.m. / IHNC Join us on a walk to the Hudson River as we look for Bald Eagles that visit the city this time of year.

Sunday, February 14 Valentine’s Day Poetry Hike / Central Park 11 a.m. / BC Express your love of nature as while hiking to the most romantic spots around Central Park. You’re invited to bring your favorite poems to read as we make stops along the way.

Saturday, February 20Eagle Watch / Inwood Hill Park 8 a.m. / IHNC See February 13 listing.

Sunday, February 21 Native American Winter Games/ Central Park 2 p.m. / BC Venture into the Ramble to learn and play some traditional Native American games. Children and adults welcome! Please dress for the cold.

Saturday, February 27Eagle Watch / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC See February 13 listing.

Kids Movie Night II / Inwood Hill Park 7 p.m. / IHNC Join us for our second installment of Kids Movie Night featuring “Ice Age: The Meltdown”. There will be light refreshment served during the movie. To register, visit http://nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register on February 17. 20 max.

Sunday, February 28Raptors: The Master’s of the Sky / Central Park 12 p.m. / BC Explore the natural history, biology and ecology of raptors with a lecture and hawk walk. Discover how birds of prey inspire humans. Legends, spirituality, religion, folklore, art, music, dance, photography, sport mascots, falconry and national symbols.

Saturday, March 6Winter Survival / Inwood Hill Park 1 p.m. / IHNC Learn about surviving in below freezing temperatures. This course will review proper clothing on winter expeditions, finding food, and building shelter.

Garden Walk / Tompkins Square Park 12 p.m. / Ninth St. and Ave. A Bring your walking shoes; we’re in for a trek through the community gardens of the Lower East Side. We’ll start and end in Tompkins Square Park.

Sunday, March 7GPS Adventure / Central Park 11 a.m. / BC Come for a hike around Central Park as we look for the park’s hidden treasures. Bring your own GPS units or borrow one from us.

Saturday, March 13Before the Ides of March / Riverside Park 5 p.m. / Hippo Playground, 91 St. and Riverside Dr. A cloud of gloom hangs over the Ides of March. Let’s take this opportunity to take a spooky walk through the Park after dark.

Sunday, March 14The Fascinating Tales of Women / Central Park 11 a.m. / Bethesda Fountain, mid park at 72 St. As part of National Women’s History Month, learn more about some prominent women in history. Our tour begins at the famed Bethesda Fountain, one of many fascinating tales of women whose work and lives we will explore on a tour around Central Park.

Native American Story Telling and Puppet Show / Inwood Hill Park 1 p.m. / IHNC Join us for some wonderful stories that were passed down through Native American culture. All ages welcome.

Join the Rangers to learn about

Manhattan’s wildlife by attending our

birding programs.


VISIT TODAY for more information at www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers

or call 866.692.4295

free!FREE!!

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Saturday, March 20

Ranger Story Telling / Central Park 11 a.m. / DDC Want to find out how a Park Ranger spends their time? Come and learn about the exciting life of a Ranger in New York City Parks.

Native American Ethno Botany / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. / IHNC The forest of Inwood Hill Park provided the Lenape tribe with many natural resources that were vital to their survival. Join us for an educational hike to learn about the vibrant Native American history and ethno botany of this unique park.

Sunday, March 21Ethno Botany of the Hallett Nature Sanctuary / Central Park 1 p.m. / Gapstow bridge at the 59 St. Pond The Lenape tribe made great use of the vast natural resources of New York. The Rangers will lead a walk though the woodlands of the Hallett Sanctuary in search of the trees and plants that they used for food, shelter, medicine and musical instruments.

Open Mic Night / Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. / IHNC Bring your instruments, prose, or poetry and contribute to a night of fun filled free form expression.

Saturday, March 27Early Birding / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC See January 9th listing.

Ramble Scramble / Central Park 12 p.m. / BC Come dust off your hiking boots as we do some rock scrambling. A great fun fact filled walk for curious geologists with lots of energy.

Kids Movie Night III / Inwood Hill Park 7 p.m. / IHNC Join us for our third installment of Kids Movie Night featuring “Over the Hedge”. There will be light refreshment served during the movie. To register, visit http://nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register on March 17. 20 max.

Sunday, March 28The First Signs of Spring! / Central Park 11 a.m. / BC We’ll keep our eyes out for blossoms, birds and bugs that are springing back into the city on our walk through Central Park.

Leisurely Spring Hike / Fort Tryon Park 12 p.m. / Margaret Corbin Circle On our leisurely stroll of Fort Tryon we will visit the Heather Garden to find out what is in bloom and enjoy the beautiful views of the Hudson River as we learn about the history of this magnificent park.


Saturday, January 2

Winter Tree I.D. / Kissena Park 11 a.m. / Rose and Oak Ave. Entrance With the Rangers teaching you’ll never “bark up the wrong tree” again once you how to identify trees without leaves,

One for the History Books / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / Front Gate, intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. Come celebrate the beginning of Fort Totten Park’s hundred-forty eighth year of existence with a walk around the grounds of this Civil War era Army base. We may even go snowshoeing, weather permitting.

Sunday, January 3The Four Elements of Survival: Part I / Forest Park 1 p.m. / FPVC In this four part series, you will learn about the four basic elements of wilderness survival: shelter, water, fire and food. Part I focuses on the importance of building a good shelter.

Shooting Stars: Quadrantids Meteor Shower / Fort Totten Park 6:30 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 The Quadrantids are an above average meteor shower, with up to 40 meteors per hour at their peak. Come stargaze with us in search of this and other celestial extravaganza. Weather permitting. Call 718.352.1769 on day of program to confirm.

Saturday, January 9Winter Wonderland / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Discover all that Fort Totten Park has to offer as we guide you through this historical and nature related scavenger hunt. All ages welcomed. We may even go snowshoeing, weather permitting.

Denizens of the Dark / Alley Pond Park 4 p.m. / APPAC Join us for an after-hours hike as we search for bats, raccoons, owls and whatever else lurks in the dark. Bring a flashlight, but leave your fear at home.

Sunday, January 10Early Birding / Forest Park 8:30 a.m. / FPVC The early bird gets the worm! Be sure to set your alarm clock and join us for this morning program.

Making Tracks / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Learn how to identify and locate animal tracks found in and around woodland areas. You will be surprised to learn which animals call Fort Totten their home.

Saturday, January 16Duck, Duck, Goose / Flushing Meadows Corona Park 10 a.m. / Mauro Playground, Park Drive East and 73 Terr. As the weather gets cold, the birding gets hot. Join us as we look for ducks and geese that consider NYC in the winter is warm!

Are You Smarter Than A Park Ranger? / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Participants will be asked questions about park history, nature and other areas to see how they size up to their friendly local Urban Park Ranger.

Sunday, January 17The Four Elements of Survival: Part II / Forest Park 1 p.m. / FPVC See January 3 listing. Part II focuses on the importance of collecting drinkable water.

Sleeping Giants / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Did you know that Fort Totten Park has over forty different species of trees? Come learn ways to identify these giants now that they have gone dormant for the winter. We may even go snowshoeing, weather permitting.

Saturday, January 23Story Time for Children / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Gather around as we read our favorite nature stories. Refreshments will be served. Children 8 and under.

Animal Tracking / Cunningham Park 12 p.m. / Parking lot on Union Tpke. and 197 St. Animals leave behind different signs of their whereabouts, from scat to tracks. Learn to keep track of them all.

Sunday, January 24Early Birding / Forest Park 8:30 a.m. / FPVC See January 10 listing.

Loons, Grebes, and Buffleheads…Oh My! / Fort Totten Park 10 a.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Come walk along the waters of the Little Neck Bay to discover the diverse winter birding in your backyard. Binoculars provided.

Saturday, January 30Duck, Duck, Goose / Baisley Pond Park 11 a.m. / Parking lot on Baisley Blvd. and 155 St. See January 16 listing.

Winter Owl Prowl / Alley Pond Park 2 p.m. / APPAC Join us as we introduce you to our resident Great Horned Owls who nests in the dark woods of Alley Pond Park. Along the way we’ll point out all the creatures that make up the interesting food web. Binoculars provided.

Sunday, January 31Birds of “Paradise” / Powells Cove Park 11 a.m. / Intersection of 130 St. and 11 Ave. Join us for a walk through this diverse habitat to see winter waterfowl, shorebirds, and many forest dwellers. Binoculars recommended.

The Four Elements of Survival: Part III / Forest Park 1 p.m. / FPVC See January 3 listing. Part III focuses on the importance of building a proper fire.

Saturday, February 6Animal Tracking / Alley Pond Park 12 p.m. / APPAC See January 23 listing.

Where Did They All Go? / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Ever walk around when it’s cold and wonder how plants and animals survive through the winter? Join us to find out and we might even go snowshoeing, weather permitting.

Sunday, February 7Early Birding / Forest Park 8:30 a.m. / FPVC See January 10 listing.

A Century of Building / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / Front Gate, intersection of 212 St. & Cross Island Pkwy. Travel back a century or more and explore examples of Colonial Revival architecture found on this former military base. We’ll identify the buildings and point out their unique architectural features. We might even go snowshoeing, weather permitting.

Saturday, February 13Duck, Duck, Goose / Highland Park 11 a.m. / Jamaica Ave. and Elton St. See January 16 listing.

Seasonal Crafts for Kids / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / FTVC, Building 502 With winter weather keeping us inside, come get creative by using all that winter has left behind for us. Children 8 and under.

Sunday, February 14The Four Elements of Survival: Part IV / Forest Park 1 p.m. / FPVC See January 3 listing. Part IV focuses on the importance of foraging for food.

Nature’s Sweet Treats / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Many of our favorite seasonal treats are products of nature. Come learn about the origins of our favorite teas, coffees and other seasonal delights and treat your taste buds.

Saturday, February 20Scavenger Hunt / Kissena Park 11 a.m. / Rose and Oak Aves. Entrance Kids of all ages can hunt for hidden treasures throughout the park. Earn prizes!

Making Tracks / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 See January 10 listing.

Sunday, February 21Early Birding / Forest Park 8:30 a.m. / FPVC See January 10 listing.

Are You Smarter Than A Park Ranger? / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 See January 16 listing.

Queens has plenty to off er - take a walk with

the Rangers and experience birding, hiking,

history and more. Spark your interest and if it

snows you can always go snowshoeing with the

Rangers at Fort Totten.


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Saturday, February 27Duck, Duck, Goose / Flushing Meadows Corona Park 10 a.m. / Mauro Playground, Park Dr. East & 73 Terr. See January 16 listing.

Loons, Grebes, and Buffleheads…Oh My! / Fort Totten Park 10 a.m. / Front Gate, intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. Come walk along the waters of the Little Neck Bay to discover the diverse winter birding in your backyard. Binoculars provided.

Sunday, February 28Nature Knowledge / Baisley Pond Park 1 p.m. / Parking lot on Baisley Blvd. and 155 St. Test your knowledge of nature as you learn about the amazing plants and animals that call Baisley Pond Park home.

All Things Algonquin / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Native Americans have influenced all areas of New York City. Come learn the history and traditions of the Lenape people.

Saturday, March 6A Century of Building / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / Front Gate, intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. See February 7 listing.

Owl Prowl / Cunningham Park 3 p.m. / Parking lot on Union Tpke. and 197 St. Although owls are active at night, they leave signs of their whereabouts that can be seen during the day. Whoooo knows what we’ll find?

Sunday, March 7Early Birding / Forest Park 8:30 a.m. / FPVC See January 10 description.

Sunday, March 7 cont’dWhat’s In the Park After Dark? / Fort Totten Park 6 p.m. / Front Gate, intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. Have you ever wondered what nocturnal wildlife comes out to play when the people are away? Take a walk through the park with the Rangers and find out.

Saturday, March 13Health Hike / Alley Pond Park 10 a.m. / APPAC See February 20 listing.

Saturday, March 13 cont’dBe A Nature Detective / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Kids put their wildlife investigation skills to the test as we use clues to find natures treasures. Children 8 and under.

Sunday, March 14Spring Ahead / Alley Pond Park 1 p.m. / APPAC Spring is just around the corner; let’s see what is peeking through our forest.

Denizens of the Dark / Kissena Park 4:30 p.m. / Rose and Oak Aves. Entrance See January 9 listing.

Saturday, March 20Duck, Duck, Goose / Flushing Meadows Corona Park 10 a.m. / Mauro Playground, Park Drive East and 73 Terr. See January 16 listing.

Spring Has Sprung / Fort Totten Park 10 a.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Spend the morning hiking along Fort Totten Park’s shorelines and wooded areas. Enjoy some of the natural beauty found in our park as we celebrate the Vernal Equinox and the arrival of spring.

Sunday, March 21Early Birding / Forest Park 8:30 a.m. / FPVC See January 10 listing.

Solid as a Rock: The Old Fort / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Explore the nineteenth century fortress that helped protect New York City’s harbor from possible naval attack and learn about the history of Willets Point.

Saturday, March 27From Slumber to Spring / Alley Pond Park 10 a.m. / APPAC With the change in seasons, the cycle of life is renewed. Many organisms awaken from a long winter’s sleep, so be sure to set your alarm clock for this program.

Birding for Kids/ Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / FTVC, Building 502 Bring the kids to the park for a day of birding by sight and song watching. Children 12 and under. Limited number of children’s binoculars available.

Scavenger Hunt / Kissena Park 2 p.m. / Rose and Oak Aves. Entrance See February 20 listing.

Sunday, March 28Return of the Plover / Rockaway Beach 1 p.m. / B 44 St. and Boardwalk Now that winter is over, it’s the return of the Piping Plover. Learn about the plight of this endangered little shorebird.

Solid as a Rock: The Old Fort / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC, Building 502 See March 21 listing.


Saturday, January 2Healthy Hike / Bloomingdale Park 11 a.m. / Playground at Ramona Ave. and Lenevar Ave. Clear your head and shake off the post-holiday blahs with a brisk walk through the park. Dress appropriately!

Winter Waterfowl / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. Get a glimpse of New York’s winter water birds, such as brants, buffleheads, and ruddy ducks. Who knows what else we’ll see! Bring your binoculars and a snack.

Sunday, January 3Nature Photography / High Rock Park 11 a.m. / HRRS We’ll look for secret corners of the park to photograph, so bring your camera!

Woodpecker Walk / Wolfe’s Pond Park 2 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Ave. With its reinforced skull and a chiseled bill the woodpecker is a true New Yorker. Join us as we go in search of these fascinating creatures.

Saturday, January 9Nature Story Time / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Gather ‘round for the warmth of classic nature children’s stories read aloud by a Ranger.

Making Tracks / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. / BHNC Learn how to identify and locate animal tracks found in and around woodland areas, then make your own animal track decorations out of paper or clay.

Sunday, January 10Winter Tree I.D. / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. How do you identify a tree when there are no leaves, flowers, or fruit? Come with us and we’ll teach you how.

Astronomy Club / Blue Heron Park 6 p.m. / BHNC Gaze at the heavens through our high-powered telescope, as we identify constellations, stars, and the phases of our satellite, the moon. Weather permitting. Please call 718.967.3542 the day of the program to confirm.

Saturday, January 16Happy Hibernators / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Where do all the animals that call New York City parks home go in the winter? Come learn where all of the wildlife has been camping out until the warm weather arrives.

Dabbling Ducks / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. Do you know the difference between those dynamic ducks and other feathered friends? Come explore the world of ducks from those that like to dabble to those that love to dive.

Sunday, January 17Winter Survival / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Join us for our classic survival workshop. Navigation, fire starting, gear, and more will be covered, just in time for the winter season.

Sunday, January 17 cont’dAnimal Autographs / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Learn to identify who’s who in the animal kingdom.

Saturday, January 23 Winter Birding / Bloomingdale Park 11 a.m. / Playground at Ramona Ave. and Lenevar Ave. Most people probably don’t get outside enough during the coldest months to appreciate all of the species that call New York home for winter. Come out in search of Winter Wrens, White Throated Sparrows, owls and more. Bring your binoculars, notebook, and warm clothes.

Nature Story Time / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. / BHNC See January 9 listing.

Sunday, January 24Nature Photography / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC See January 3 listing.

Woodpecker Walk / Wolfe’s Pond Park 2 p.m. / Meet behind Comfort Station west of Cornelia Ave. See January 3 listing

Saturday, January 30Dabbling Ducks / Clove Lakes Park 11 a.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. See January 16 listing.

Native American Pathways / Conference House Park 2 p.m. / Meet by visitors center, Hylan Blvd. and Satterlee St. Explore the park to discover a variety of objects used by the Native Americans. How did they survive the winter?

Sunday, January 31 Winter Survival / Blue Heron Park 11 am. / BHNC See January 17 listing.

Winter Tree I.D. / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. See January 10 listing.

Saturday, February 6Happy Hibernators / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC See January 16 listing.

Winter Waterfowl / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. See January 2 listing.

Sunday, February 7Local History Club / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC In honor of Black History Month, February’s theme will be about the role of Staten Island’s most prominent African Americans. What did they do, and what did they overcome in order to earn fame, fortune, or just recognition?

Winter Survival / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. / BHNC See January 17 listing.

Saturday, February 13Valentine’s Day Eco-Crafts / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Let your creativity flow and make a heart-felt craft using natural materials. Materials provided.


Sunday, February 14Valentine’s Day Eco-Crafts / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC See February 13 listing.

Winter Tree I.D. / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. See January 10 listing.

KIDS’ WEEK February 15 - 19

Kids’ Week in the Forest! / Blue Heron Park 10 a.m. / BHNC Spend mid-winter break with the Rangers exploring the forest of Blue Heron Park. Nature walks, crafts, team-building activities, performances and more.

MONDAY — Making Tracks

TUESDAY — Maps and More

WEDNESDAY — Native American Pathways

THURSDAY — Winter Survival

FRIDAY — Birding 101

Saturday, February 20Moses Mountain A-Z Hike/ High Rock Park 11 a.m. / HRRS See if you can find something in nature to match each and every letter of the alphabet while hiking your way to Moses Mountain.

Dabbling Ducks / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. See January 16 listing.

Sunday, February 21Woodpecker Walk / Wolfe’s Pond Park 2 p.m. / Meet behind Comfort Station west of Cornelia Ave. See January 3 listing.

Astronomy Club / Blue Heron Park 6 p.m. / BHNC See January 10 listing. Weather permitting. Please call 718.967.3542 the day of the program to confirm.

Saturday, February 27Making Tracks / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC See January 9 listing.

Owl Prowl / Blue Heron Park 6 p.m. / BHNC Learn all about the owls of Blue Heron Park from what they eat to what they sound like. Then go for a stroll in search of these nightly wonders.

Enjoy some serious park-to-park treks,

winter birding, historic house tours

and we think you’ll agree that winter is

awesome on the Island.


Sunday, February 28

Leaping Lizards and Other Critters! / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Even though it’s not a leap year, we still like animals that rely on jumping to survive. Find out which ones are the fastest, the highest, and the farthest jumpers.


Saturday, March 6Moses Mountain A-Z Hike/ High Rock Park 11 a.m. / HRRS See February 20 listing.

Winter Waterfowl / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. See January 2 listing.

Sunday, March 7Winter Tree I.D. / Clove Lakes Park 11 a.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. See January 10 listing.

Winter Survival / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. / BHNC See January 17 listing.

Saturday, March 13Bunny Hop / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Spring is upon us and our furry friends are hop, hop, hoppy to come out and meet some visitors.


Sunday, March 14Local History Club / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC In honor of Women’s History Month, we’ll discuss Staten Island’s most prominent women, from Alice Austen to Joan Baez. Find out what ties they had to Staten Island. Perhaps they lived in your neighborhood.

Astronomy Club / Blue Heron Park 6 p.m. / BHNC See January 10 listing. Weather permitting. Please call 718.967.3542 the day of the program to confirm.

Saturday, March 20

Spring Fling / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC Happy first day of spring! Let’s see what Nature has to offer us now that the weather is starting to change. And let’s see who has awoken from their winter nap.


Sunday, March 21Nature Photography / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC See January 3 listing.

Sunday, March 21 cont’dWinter Waterfowl / Clove Lakes Park 2 p.m. / Martling Pond, Martling Ave. entrance, just west of Clove Rd. See January 2 listing.

Saturday, March 27Making Tracks / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC See January 9 listing.


Sunday, March 28Nature Story Time / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / BHNC See January 9 listing.

Nature’s Fakers / High Rock Park 2 p.m. / HRRS April fools is upon us and Mother Nature has lots of tricks she likes to play on us. So let’s see what some of these may be and learn how all of her lovely creatures adapt to survive.

KIDS’ WEEK March 29 - April 2 Kids’ Week in the Forest! / Blue Heron Park 10 a.m. / BHNC Spend spring break with the Rangers exploring the forest of Blue Heron Park. Nature walks, crafts, team-building activities, performances and more.

MONDAY — Forest Ecology

TUESDAY — A-Z Nature Hike

WEDNESDAY — Geology Rocks

THURSDAY — Nature’s Fakers

FRIDAY — Tremendous Trees


LOOKING FOR: CAMP COUNSELORs

Outdoor enthusiasts interested in a

fun summer experience working

as a CAMP COUNSELOR

OR COUNSELOR-IN-TRAINING

at Urban Park Ranger summer camps.

• 15 -17 years old, Counselor -in-

training positions.

• 18+ years old, Camp Counselor

positions.

SUMMER EMPLOYMENT BULLETIN BOARD

WANTED: SEASONAL PARK RANGERSOutdoor enthusiasts 21+ years old

interested in a fun summer

experience working as a

SEASONAL PARK RANGER.

Lead Summer Explorer Programs.

For more information please check out the website at http://www.nycgovparks.org/rangers.

URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 15

The Natural ClassroomTM

TreesNYC: Something Big is taking RootGerminate an interest in trees in your students while reinforcing scientifi c and mathematical concepts. ‘Leaf” the classroom behind, branch out to

the park, and help New York become green and clean.

Urban Raptors: Masters of the SkyLet your students soar to new heights as they learn about the razor-sharp talons, keen eyesight, and hooked beaks of raptors. Eagles, hawks, owls and more; discover their world and watch them soar.

Citizen Science: Water Quality TestingCitizen Science programs promote public involvement in science research projects and interest in environmental issues. Through the ParKIDS NYC website, the Urban Park Rangers are conducting a water quality monitoring project. Partner with the Rangers to collect and test water samples at various locations in all fi ve boroughs.

The Urban Park Rangers secure grant funding to offset the cost to teachers of participating in The Natural Classroom*. Ask about our current grants and fi nd out if you are eligible for a free or low-cost grant funded program!

*Half price programs for Title I schools.

To book your visit call 311 and ask for the URBAN PARK RANGERS.

Kids' Korner!

They say that no two snowflakes are exactly the same. This may or may not be true, and it would take a really long time to figure this out for sure, but we do know this: snowflakes form when it’s REALLY cold outside. What we call snowflakes are really a collection of six-sided snow crystals. As moisture collects around dust or other teeny-tiny particles floating around in a cloud, the particles become heavier and fall to Earth as snowflakes. Their shapes are different depending on how high or low in the sky the clouds they form in are. The highest clouds are the coldest, but not the best snow crystal makers — 5 degrees Fahrenheit is best and occurs in clouds found lower in the sky. Believe it or not, even if it gets REALLY REALLY cold, but there are no particles in the clouds, snowflakes will not form. But if they do, get ready for some fun! Skiers and sledders prefer a drier, more powdery snow with more air between the flakes, whereas snow fort and snowball makers, prefer a wetter, less airy snow that sticks together when mushed. One thing to remember, kids: even if it turns out that there are two identical snowflakes out there, no two people are exactly the same, which makes you pretty special.

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City of New YorkParks & RecreationMichael R. Bloomberg, MayorAdrian Benepe, Commissioner

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New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

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THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE JANUARY / … · iin New York Cityn New York City ... Funding for the $11.4 million project was provided by Mayor Bloomberg ($6.3 million),