THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE OCTOBER / NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2012 INCLUDES CALENDAR OF URBAN PARK RANGER FREE WEEKEND ADVENTURES

Transcription

1 THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE OCTOBER / NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2012 INCLUDES CALENDAR OF URBAN PARK RANGER FREE WEEKEND ADVENTURES

2 2 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS Message From: Susan Donoghue Senior Advisor and Assistant Commissioner for Communications and Strategic Initiatives Photo by Daniel Avila NYC Parks Fall in New York City is dynamic. The City emerges from the relative quiet of summer and the excitement of back-to-school and cooler temperatures set in. Here at NYC Parks, fall signifies renewed focus on efforts to green and beautify the city, celebrate harvest time at community gardens and greenmarkets, and prepare for planting. On October 27, MillionTreesNYC hosts its 11th Volunteer Planting Day. Youth, environmental and community groups plant approximately 20,000 trees in parks citywide. Hosted every fall and spring, these large events have become a tradition and an important opportunity for New Yorkers to Dig In and help NYC reach its goal of one million new trees. This fall, Floyd Bennett Field in Jamaica Bay, Brooklyn and Cunningham Park, Queens will each become greener by 5,000 trees, and help the MillionTreesNYC tree count reach over 630,000 trees. During Planting Days, Urban Park Rangers play an integral role in educating volunteers about proper planting techniques and the benefits of planting trees in our City. NYC Parks is extremely grateful for the help of dedicated volunteers who continue to get involved in greening their neighborhood parks, and MillionTreesNYC invites them to care for newly planted trees by joining our Stewardship programs. To learn more please visit NYC Parks enthusiasm for back-to-school naturally extends to environmental education, where our Urban Park Rangers are on the forefront, developing curricula to inspire involvement in the natural world. In 2011, the Urban Park Rangers were recognized by the NYS Department of Environmental Protection Fund s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program with an award to provide climate change-focused waterfront programming. A key component of Urban Park Rangers environmental education is Adapting to Climate Change in NYC, a new curriculum for The Natural Classroom now being designed in partnership with Dr. Stuart Gaffin, climatologist, Columbia University Center for Climate Systems Research. It will be implemented in fall Our agency s focus on environmental education extends to NYC Parks employees who engage in sustainable activities throughout the workday. Examples include reducing paper and energy in the office, and biking instead of driving to park inspections. To share best practices and create a community around sustainability, we have asked all staff to each make a Green Pledge to do one thing that helps save water, energy, or keeps materials out of landfills. We have collected 1,200 pledges to date. Please join us in our efforts and thank you for doing one thing that s green this fall! Urban Park Ranger Nature and Visitor Centers Crotona Nature Center: Crotona Park. Enter the park at Charlotte St. & Crotona Park East Orchard Beach Nature Center: Pelham Bay Park. Section 2 of Orchard Beach Pelham Bay Ranger Station: Pelham Bay Park. Bruckner Blvd. & Wilkinson Ave Van Cortlandt Nature Center: Van Cortlandt Park. Enter the park at W. 246th St. & Broadway Salt Marsh Nature Center: Marine Park. East 33rd St. & Avenue U Cover Photo by Elizabeth Green NYC Parks continued Fort Greene Visitor Center: Fort Greene Park. Enter the park at Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park Belvedere Castle: Central Park. 79th St., mid-park Inwood Hill Nature Center: Inwood Hill Park. Enter park at W. 218th St. & Indian Road or Alley Pond Park Adventure Center: Alley Pond Park. Enter at Winchester Blvd., under the Grand Central Parkway or Forest Park Visitor Center: Forest Park. Woodhaven Blvd. & Forest Park Drive Fort Totten Visitors Center: Fort Totten Park. Enter park at fort entrance, north of intersection of 212 St. and Cross Island Pkwy. and follow signs Blue Heron Nature Center: Blue Heron Park. 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road & Hylan Boulevard High Rock Ranger Station: High Rock Park. Park in the lot at the end of Nevada Avenue, off Rockland Ave., and follow signs For hours, call the specific location. THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Director Sarah Aucoin Deputy Director Bonnie McGuire Urban Park Rangers 1234 Fifth Avenue New York City Deputy Director Richard Simon Graphic Designer Elizabeth Green City of New York Parks & Recreation Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor Veronica M. White, Commissioner Annika S. Holder, Asst. Commissioner

3 URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 3 City and Federal government join forces to cooperatively manage 10,000 acres of parks in and around Jamaica Bay This past July, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar signed an unprecedented agreement between the National Park Service and the New York City Parks Department spelling out ways the two agencies will cooperatively manage 10,000 acres of federal and city-owned parks in and around Jamaica Bay to promote visitation, education programs, scientific research and recreational opportunities. Photo by Daniel Avila NYC Parks The goals of the agreement include: Creating a seamless and interconnected network of improved recreation spaces, including more camping and boating opportunities, integrated land and water trail systems, and community activity areas; Coordinating habitat restoration, research and resource management in the Bay; Ensuring public transportation and access to and within Jamaica Bay strongly supports existing and new experiential activities, including public transit, pedestrian, bicycle, and ferry access; Providing unified signage, maps and marketing wherever possible; Integrating business practices for maintenance and management; Developing new revenue generation sources and philanthropic support to enable the redevelopment and support the ongoing operations of the parks without regard to underlying ownership; and Jointly developing a series of programs in which urban youth can learn the values of stewardship through service activities. This agreement is part of PlaNYC, Mayor Bloomberg s initiative to build a sustainable City that will meet the needs of a growing population, support a competitive economy, combat climate change and improve the quality of life for all New Yorkers. Since then, the City has reached impressive milestones, such as the planting of more than 600,000 trees, the conversion of 210 schoolyards to full-time playgrounds, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Ranger in the Spotlight: Ranger Sergeant Marc Sanchez leads the Ranger team in Ft. Totten, Queens. Photo by Elizabeth Green NYC Parks How long have you been an Urban Park Ranger? I ve been an Urban Park Ranger since May, I started out as a seasonal Urban Park Ranger working in Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx. I grew up in the Bronx and visited the park frequently, so being given the opportunity to be a steward of my childhood park meant a great deal to me. In 2009 I was promoted to sergeant and assigned to Fort Totten Park. What do you enjoy most about being a Ranger? It s really an amazing thing to be able to provide a new experience to longtime park users. It reminds me of when I first started out as a Park Ranger. Even though I visited Van Cortlandt Park countless times as a child, I was never exposed to all the park s hidden niches and my eyes were closed to the nature that was all around me. I really enjoy connecting New Yorkers to the natural world, particularly through canoeing and camping programs. What public programs have you created? I created a successful series of astronomy programs that focus on meteor showers and other astronomical events. Fort Totten is a great place to go stargazing and we have some great astronomy programs coming up this fall. I am also really proud of our Fort Totten battery and tunnel tours. And of course, we continue to run our famous Haunted Halloween Lantern tour. This year the lantern tour will take place Friday and Saturday, October What is your favorite park and why? My favorite park will always be Pelham Bay Park. It s New York City s largest park and a great place to join the Rangers for a program. It s also the perfect place to see different types of owls. What s it like to be a Park Ranger in New York City? I m really proud to be a Park Ranger in New York City. Most people don t know there are Park Rangers here. Having the opportunity to educate New Yorkers of all ages about the history and nature of our City is something special only a few people have the opportunity to do. Not to mention the fact that our uniform is awesome! People really respect and honor Park Rangers, and that is a great feeling. What do you do in your spare time? What are your hobbies? In my spare time I try to stay active. I am an active participant in softball, football and basketball leagues and I also enjoy attending concerts and live sporting events. Don t be surprised if you find me bird watching in your local park on my day off. Out of uniform, of course!

4 4 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS Astronomy and Night Sky Programs The wonders of the universe are ready to be discovered and New York City parks are the perfect place to stargaze and explore the night sky. Our Urban Park Rangers will be your guides to the solar system, discussing the science, history and folklore of the universe. Astronomy is constantly rated as a favorite science topic for children and is the perfect gateway subject for science education. Learn about the effects of light pollution and discover the best places in NYC for amazing views of the sky. Fall and winter are the best times to observe meteor showers, the phases of the moon, and many planets of the Milky Way. Astronomy programs feature the use of telescopes and binoculars to observe specific astronomical events. Many programs feature astronomy experts and all equipments is provided. Night Sky programs highlight the history and folklore of the solar system, using the naked eye to locate stars and planets. Programs are best enjoyed on clear nights, so please call ahead if weather conditions are not clear. Photo by Elizabeth Green NYC Parks Saturday, October 20 Astronomy / Central Park 7 p.m. / Sheep Meadow, enter at 67th Street and Central Park West Sunday, November 18 Night Sky Lecture / Inwood Hill Park 4 p.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Sunday, October 21 Astronomy / Fort Totten 7 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Saturday, November 17 Astronomy / Fort Totten 6 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Sunday, October 21 Astronomy/ Van Cortlandt Park 6 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Sunday, December 16 The Night Sky / Pelham Bay Park 6 p.m. / Meet at Dog Run near Middletown Road and Stadium Place Saturday, November 3 Astronomy / Coney Island 6 p.m. / Steeplechase Pier, Reigleman Boardwalk and West 19th Street Saturday, December 15 Astronomy / Prospect Park 6 p.m. / Picnic House, Fifth Street and West Drive Saturday, November 17 Astronomy / Wolfe s Pond Park 6 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue Saturday, December 15 Astronomy / Wolfe s Pond Park 6 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue

5 URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 5 Conservation, Restoration, and Stewardship Get involved! Help keep NYC clean and green. New York City is home to over 29,000 acres of parkland, 600 miles of shoreline, and over 5 million trees, which need your help. From tree plantings and habitat restorations, to composting and cleanups, to wildlife monitoring, there are many ways for New Yorkers to volunteer and improve our City. The Urban Park Rangers partner with MillionTreesNYC, the Natural Resources Group, and other organizations to support initiatives that help improve the health of NYC s diverse ecosystems and natural areas. Volunteering is a great way to make new friends and to give back to your city. Volunteer opportunities usually involve manual labor and may not be appropriate for all ages. Some opportunities require pre-registration. All equipment is provided. Photo by Sarah Aucoin NYC Parks MILLIONTREESNYC VOLUNTEER PLANTING DAY Saturday October 27, 2012 MillionTreesNYC Volunteer Planting Day / 9:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. / Plant a tree in one of these parks: Bronx: Pelham Bay Park, Van Cortland Park Brooklyn: Floyd Bennett Field-North 40, McGuire Fields Queens: Cunningham Park Staten Island: Conference House Park Sunday October 28, :00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. / Queens Fort Totten Park. Registration required. To register and learn more visit: continued Sunday, December 9 All About Compost / Inwood Hill Park 11 a.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Sunday, October 7 Conservation: Coastal Cleanup / Bayswater Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Beach 32 and Beach Channel Drive Continued Sunday, October 14 Conservation: Coastal Cleanup / Fort Totten 11 a.m. 1 p.m. / Meet at Front Gate, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway Sunday, October 7 Conservation: Coastal Cleanup / Wolfe s Pond Park 1 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue Saturday, October 13 Conservation: Coastal Cleanup / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue Saturday, October 13 Conservation: Trail Restoration / Canarsie Park 10 a.m. / Meet at Seaview Avenue and East 89th Street Sunday, October 14 Woodland and Park Cleanup / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Photo by Sarah Aucoin NYC Parks

6 6 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS Hiking & Orienteering Hiking is the ultimate way to enjoy the outdoors and reduce stress. Regardless of the intensity level, it is a great way to burn calories and stay fit. Our Urban Park Rangers will introduce you to the hidden gems of New York City and places often off limits to the general public. On our hikes, you may explore nature, discover our City s rich history and diverse culture, or just unplug from the world to clear your head. On Nature Exploration Hikes we will discover the plants and animals that inhabit the urban forest. Our Night Hikes are great for families! Fitness Hikes feature less talking and more walking, for those who don t mind a vigorous two hour hike. Learn how to navigate using a map and compass on our Orienteering programs. Special geo-cache programs teach you how to use a GPS while searching for hidden prizes. Hiking and Orienteering programs feature intensity levels ranging from light (a leisurely stroll on mostly paved paths), moderate (longer, faster paced hikes on rugged terrain), to vigorous (long distance, with hills and rugged terrain). For all hiking programs we recommend wearing comfortable shoes or boots, and packing water and a light snack. Photo by Sarah Aucoin NYC Parks Saturday, October 20 Hiking: John Muir (vigorous) / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Mosholu Ave Saturday, November 17 Hiking: Putnum Trail (moderate) / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Sunday, November 25 Nature Exploration: Siwanoy Trail (moderate)/ Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / Bartow-Pell Mansion (Shore Road) Sunday, November 4 Nature Exploration (moderate) / Prospect Park 10 a.m. / Picnic House, Fifth Street and West Drive Saturday, November 24 Fitness Hike (vigorous) / Plum Beach 1 p.m. / Meet in parking lot off of Belt Parkway eastbound between exits 9 & 11 Sunday, December 9 Nature Exploration (light) / Marine Park 10 a.m. / Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U Saturday, December 29 Nature Exploration (moderate) / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Picnic House, Fifth Street and West Drive Saturday, November 10 Orienteering (light) / Central Park 1 p.m. / Dana Discovery Center, 110th Street and Lenox Avenue Sunday, November 25 Fitness Hike: Three Square Parks (moderate) / Washington Square Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Washington Arch, 5th Avenue and Washington Square North. Saturday, December 8 Nature Hike (moderate) / Inwood Hill Park 11 a.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Sunday, December 23 Orienteering (light) / Fort Tryon Park 11 a.m. / Cloister Lawn, North Side Sunday, October 28 Nature Exploration Hike (light) / Kissena Park 1 p.m. / Rose Avenue and Oak Avenue entrance Saturday, November 10 Fitness Hike (vigorous) / Cunningham Park 11 a.m. / Parking lot on Union Turnpike and 196th Street Sunday, December 2 Fitness Hike (vigorous) / Alley Pond Park 11 a.m. / Alley Pond Park Adventure Center, Winchester Boulevard, under the Grand Central Parkway continued Saturday December 22 Nature Exploration Hike (moderate) / Forest Park 11 a.m. / Forest Park Visitor Center, Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive Sunday, October 14 Nature Exploration (moderate) / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Eton Place and Richmond Avenue Sunday, November 11 Nature Exploration (easy) / Bloomingdale Park 1 p.m. / Playground at Ramona Avenue and Lenevar Avenue Saturday, December 1 Fitness Hike (vigorous) / La Tourette Park 11 a.m. / Field of Dreams, Richmond Avenue and Forest Hill Road Sunday, December 16 Nature Exploration (easy) / Bloomingdale Park 1 p.m. / Playground at Ramona Avenue and Lenevar Avenue

7 URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 7 History & Culture Ice-age glaciers, Native Americans, Dutch traders, British Redcoats, and the Underground Railroad have all left their mark on New York City. Their stories can be found in the names of our streets, our architecture, and our parks. Urban Park Rangers specialize in interpretation of historic turning points, both natural and man-made, in our city s long history. Fans of military history can explore our city s role in various conflicts at Brooklyn s Fort Greene Park and Queens Fort Totten Park. Architecture and the history of the Hudson River are explained at Manhattan s Little Red Lighthouse and Highbridge Park. Native American culture is celebrated in special programs and lectures throughout the five boroughs and park history programs tell the story of your favorite parks from the past to their future. Certain popular programs have limited space and require registration. Join us on October 6th and 7th for special programs as part of Open House New York (OHNY) Weekend. For more information on Open House New York visit Photo by Solita Alexander NYC Parks Sunday, October 14 Colonial New York: Split Rock / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / Bartow-Pell Mansion (Shore Road) Sunday, November 11 Historic New York: Estates of Pelham/ Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Bartow-Pell Mansion (Shore Road) Saturday, December 8 Historic New York: Native Americans / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue Saturday, December 22 Historic New York: Historic Highlights / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Saturday, October 6 OHNY: Prison Ships Martyrs Monument / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. 3 p.m. / Meet at the Prison Ships Martyrs Monument on top of hill, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park Avenue Sunday, October 14 Historic New York: Brooklyn Brews / Williamsburg 1 p.m. / Meet at Myrtle Avenue Sunday, November 18 Historic New York: Native Americans in Brooklyn / Marine Park 1 p.m. / Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U continued Sunday, December 2 Revolutionary New York: Forts of New York/ Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / Fort Greene Visitor s Center, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park Avenue Saturday, October 6 OHNY: Little Red Lighthouse Festival/ Ft. Washington Park 12 p.m. 4 p.m. / Enter the park at 181st Street and Plaza Lafayette Sunday, October 7 OHNY: The Arsenal / Central Park 11 a.m. 4 p.m. / Enter the park at 64th Street and 5th Avenue Saturday, October 13 Little Red Lighthouse / Ft. Washington Park 1 p.m. 4 p.m. / Enter the park at 181st Street and Plaza Lafayette Saturday, November 17 Belvedere Castle by Candlelight / Central Park 6 p.m. / Belvedere Castle, mid park at 79th Street Saturday, October 6 OHNY: Fort Totten Tunnel Tour / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Saturday, November 3 Historic New York: Native Americans / Rockaway Beach 1 p.m. / Meet at Beach 67 and Boardwalk Far Rockaway continued Saturday, December 1 Historic New York: Astoria Park Highlights/ Astoria Park 1 p.m. / Parking lot on Hoyt Avenue and 19th Street Sunday, December 16 Historic New York: Fort Totten / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Saturday, October 6 OHNY: Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Park 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. / Eltingville Transit Center, Richmond Avenue and Arthur Kill Road To register, visit park-features/freshkills-park/tourregistration Saturday, November 3 Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Park 1 p.m. / Eltingville Transit Center, Richmond Avenue and Arthur Kill Road To register, visit park-features/freshkills-park/tourregistration Saturday, December 8 Historical New York: Colonial Holidays/ Conference House Park 11 a.m. / Hylan Blvd and Satterlee St Sunday, December 30 Historical New York: Clove Lakes Park/ Clove Lakes Park 1 p.m. / Park Drive and Clove Road

8 8 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS Kids and Family We connect children with nature to encourage active exploration of the natural world. Children who spend time outdoors develop strong imaginations and learn to socialize better with others. Urban Park Rangers are role models who encourage children to let their imaginations run wild in a safe, supportive atmosphere. While most of our programs are family friendly, the programs highlighted here are specifically for young children and families. Whether enjoying a family friendly movie under the stars, freeing your imagination playing in nature, or learning about conservation through eco-crafts, a free Ranger program is the perfect addition to your family s weekend. All supplies provided. Photo by Katy Boula NYC Parks Sunday, October 28 Halloween Eco Crafts / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Sunday, November 18 Kids Scavenger Hunt / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Sunday, December 23 Holiday Nature Crafts / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue Sunday, October 21 Creepy Crawly Creatures Crafts and Facts / Fort Greene Park 12 p.m. / Fort Greene Visitor s Center, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park Avenue Sunday, November 25 Holiday Nature Crafts / McCarren Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Lorimer Street and Berry Street Saturday, December 22 Colonial Games / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / Fort Greene Visitor s Center, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park Avenue Wednesday October 31 Haunted House on Inwood Hill / Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road continued Sunday, November 4 Recycle and Reuse: Wearable Art and Masks/ Inwood Hill Park 2 p.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Saturday, December 22 Woodland Fairy House Walk / Inwood Hill Park 1 p.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Friday, October 26 Haunted Lantern Tours / Fort Totten 6:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center continued Saturday, October 27 Haunted Lantern Tours / Fort Totten 6:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Sunday, November 25 Kids Scavenger Hunt / Kissena Park 1 p.m. / Rose Avenue and Oak Avenue entrance Sunday December 23 Holiday Nature Crafts/ Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Sunday, October 28 Holiday Nature Crafts/ Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard Sunday, November 4 Kids Scavenger Hunt / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard Sunday, December 23 Holiday Nature Crafts/ Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard Photo by Sarah Aucoin NYC Parks

9 URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 9 Nature Art and Photography It has been said that art takes nature as its model. The beauty of nature has inspired many great Americans to create artistic masterpieces. From the wildlife portraits of John James Audubon to the stunning black and white photography of Ansel Adams, nature has been a muse to artists for centuries. Our Urban Park Ranger art and photography programs allow you to interpret the natural would through artistic expression, while learning about the local environment. Art programs may include drawing, painting, poetry and nature art projects. All supplies are provided unless otherwise indicated. All art programs are family friendly, but may be challenging for younger children. All Photography programs are for digital cameras and you must provide your own camera. DSLR preferred, but all cameras are welcome. Photo by Elizabeth Green NYC Parks Photo by Michael Vincent NYC Parks Sunday, November 4 Nature Drawing: Fall Foliage / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Saturday, November 24 Nature Photography / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue continued Saturday, December 15 Nature Photography: Black & White / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue Sunday, October 7 Photography: Cityscapes / Brooklyn Bridge Park 2 p.m. / Pier 1, Furman St. and Old Fulton Saturday, November 10 Nature Photography / Prospect Park 2 p.m. / Prospect Park Audubon Center, East Drive and Lincoln Road Saturday, November 3 Nature Drawing: Fall Foliage / Inwood Hill Park 11 a.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Saturday, December 1 Nature Photography / Central Park 1 p.m. / Dana Discovery Center, 110th Street and Lenox Avenue Sunday, December 30 Nature Drawing: Winter Landscapes/ Inwood Hill Park 2 p.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Saturday, October 13 Photography: Fall Foliage / Flushing Meadows-Corona Park 1 p.m./ Meet inside the park, at the Unisphere Sunday, November 11 Beginners Impression Painting / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitor Center, Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway. Follow signs to Visitor Center Saturday December 15 Photography: Winter Landscapes / Rockaway Beach 11 a.m. / Meet at Beach 67 Street on Boardwalk Saturday, October 20 Photography: Fall Foliage / Bloomingdale Park 11 a.m. / Playground at Ramona Avenue and Lenevar Avenue Sunday, November 18 Nature Drawing/ Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard Saturday, December 29 Photography: Winter Landscapes / Von Briesen Park 11 a.m. / Bay St. & School Rd. parking lot

10 10 NYCParks nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS Wilderness Survival & Emergency Preparedness What would you do if you found yourself lost in the woods? Do you know how to build your own shelter, or start a fire without matches? What would you eat and where would you find water? Do you have what it takes to survive in the wild? Our Urban Park Rangers are skilled in the techniques of wilderness survival and emergency preparedness. On these fun, family friendly programs you will learn tips and tricks that will enhance your knowledge of the natural world, and might just save your life. Whether you are preparing for an extended journey through the woods or just want to be more prepared for any situation, a wilderness survival program is perfect for you. Wilderness survival programs feature hands-on activities in an outdoor setting. Emergency Preparedness provides families and individuals with helpful information on how to be ready when an emergency situation arises. All programs are family friendly, but are recommended for ages 8 years and older. Please dress appropriately for cold weather. Photo by Daniel Avila NYC Parks Sunday, October 7 Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying and Fire Starting / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Saturday, November 10 Wilderness Survival / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue Sunday, December 2 Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying and Fire Starting / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Pelham Bay Nature Center, Bruckner Boulevard and Wilkinson Avenue Saturday, December 29 Wilderness Survival / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Sunday, October 28 Wilderness Survival / Fort Greene Park 2 p.m. / Fort Greene Visitor s Center, Myrtle Avenue and Washington Park Avenue Saturday, November 17 Wilderness Survival / Marine Park 1 p.m. / Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U Saturday, December 1 Wilderness Survival / Marine Park 11 a.m. / Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U continued Sunday, December 16 Wilderness Survival / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Prospect Park Audubon Center, East Drive and Lincoln Road Saturday, October 27 Wilderness Survival / Riverside Park 1 p.m. / 83rd Street and Riverside Drive Sunday, November 11 Wilderness Survival / Inwood Hill Park 1 p.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Saturday, December 15 Wilderness Survival / Central Park 11 a.m. / Dana Discovery Center, 110th Street and Lenox Avenue Saturday, December 29 Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying and Map Reading / Inwood Hill Park 11 a.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th street and Indian Road Sunday, November 4 Wilderness Survival / Forest Park 1 p.m. / Forest Park Visitor Center, Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive Saturday November 24 Wilderness Survival / Forest Park 1 p.m. / Forest Park Visitor Center, Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive continued Saturday, December 8 Wilderness Survival / Alley Pond Park 1 p.m. / Alley Pond Park Adventure Center, Winchester Boulevard, under the Grand Central Parkway Sunday, December 30 Wilderness Survival / Forest Park 1 p.m. / Forest Park Visitor Center, Woodhaven Boulevard and Forest Park Drive Sunday, October 21 Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying and Map Reading / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard Sunday, November 25 Wilderness Survival / High Rock Park 1 p.m. / High Rock Ranger Station, park in lot at the end of Nevada Avenue, off Rockland Avenue and follow signs Sunday, December 2 Emergency Preparedness: Knot Tying and Map Reading / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Blue Heron Nature Center, 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road and Hylan Boulevard Saturday, December 22 Wilderness Survival / High Rock Park 11 a.m. / High Rock Ranger Station, park in lot at the end of Nevada Avenue, off Rockland Avenue and follow signs

11 URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers NYC Parks 11 Wildlife Viewing New York City is home to an amazing abundance of wildlife. From falcons and salamanders, to deer and seals, wildlife viewing opportunities exist year-round in all of our parks and beaches. Wildlife viewing is a perfect activity for any age. Today wildlife viewing is recognized as one of the nation s fastest growing activities. Our Rangers will guide you to the best wildlife viewing spots in New York City. We offer birding programs throughout the year and our Exploration series focuses on unique wildlife viewing opportunities during particular seasons. Birding programs are appropriate for all skill levels and beginners are welcome. To enhance your experience we encourage you to bring binoculars and field guides, or ask a Ranger to borrow a pair. Photo by Mara Pendergrass NYC Parks Saturday, October 6 Birding / Van Cortlandt Park 8 a.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Saturday, November 3 Birding / Van Cortlandt Park 8 a.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Saturday, December 1 Birding / Van Cortlandt Park 8 a.m. / Van Cortlandt Nature Center, West 246th Street Sunday, December 9 Seal Exploration/ Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / Orchard Beach Nature Center, Section 1 of Orchard Beach Saturday, October 20 Birding: Raptor Migration / Marine Park 9 a.m. / Salt Marsh Nature Center, East 33rd Street and Avenue U Sunday, November 11 Animal Tracking / Fresh Creek Park 2 p.m. / Meet at Seaview Avenue and Louisiana Avenue Saturday, December 8 Seal Watch / Coney Island 1 p.m. / Steeplechase Pier, Reigleman Boardwalk and West 19th Street Sunday, December 23 Birding: Shore Birds / Kaiser Park 11 a.m. / Meet at the pier, park entrance on Neptune Avenue and W27th Street continued Sunday, December 30 Birding: Winter Waterfowl / Spring Creek Park 11 a.m. / Gateway Drive and Erskine Street Sunday, October 21 Animal Tracking / Central Park 11 a.m. / Dana Discovery Center, 110th Street and Lenox Avenue Saturday, November 24 Birding: Song Birds / Inwood Hill Park 9 a.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center, West 218th Street and Indian Road Sunday, December 2 Birding: Waterfowl / Central Park 11 a.m. / Meet at the Reservoir, 86th Street and the West Drive Sunday, December 16 Central Park Christmas Bird Count / Central Park 8 a.m. / Reservoir South Pumphouse, for registration details visit parks or Saturday, October 20 Birding: Song Birds / Alley Pond Park 11 a.m. / Alley Pond Park Adventure Center, Winchester Boulevard, under the Grand Central Parkway Sunday, November 18 Birding: Shore Birds / Rockaway Beach 11 a.m. / Meet at Beach 67 Street on Boardwalk continued Sunday, December 9 Birding: Waterfowl / Baisley Pond Park 1 p.m. / Meet at parking lot on Baisley Boulevard and 155th Street Saturday, December 29 Birding: Waterfowl / Bayswater Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Beach 32 Street and Beach Channel Drive Saturday, October 13 Birding: Raptors / High Rock Park 11 a.m. / High Rock Ranger Station, park in lot at the end of Nevada Avenue, off Rockland Avenue and follow signs Saturday, November 10 Birding: Wild Turkeys / Midland Beach 11 a.m. / Midland Avenue and Father Capodanno Boulevard Saturday, November 24 Birding: Songbirds/ Clove Lakes Park 11 a.m. / Park Drive and Clove Road Sunday, December 9 Animal Tracking / Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Eton Place and Richmond Avenue

12 THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE 1000 pieces of cardio and strength equipment. 29 basketball courts. 12 pools. 6 tracks. 33 locations. 5 boroughs. Join a NYC Parks Recreation Center near you and get the most affordable and extensive network of exercise facilities across the five boroughs NYC Parks Recreation Center Membership. Get it. Adult Membership $150 per year for access to all 33 Recreation Centers and all 12 indoor pools or $100 per year for access to 21 Recreation Centers without indoor pools. Youth Membership FREE access to all 33 Recreation Centers and all 12 indoors pools for ages 17 and under. Senior Membership $25 per year for access to all 33 Recreation Centers and all 12 indoor pools for ages 62 and over. For more information, visit nyc.gov/parks or call 311.