Get a behind-the-scenes view of one of our newest preserves (Buttonbush Preserve) before it’s open to the public! This gorgeous preserve provides critical drinking water protection for the City of Peekskill and wildlife habitat across its 137 acres of mixed aged deciduous forests, wetlands, and bedrock outcroppings. It has everything—except you! We will be planting and protecting native trees to boost biodiversity and support forest health.

• Day + Time: Friday, October 18, 11am–2pm, rain or shine
• Getting There + Parking: There’s a parking area behind a gate along Sprout Brook Road (41.320237, -73.914772). We’ll be there to open the gate and help park, but please carpool if you can.
• Difficulty: Medium—suitable for ages 12 and up; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Moderate hiking is to be expected (2-3 miles). We will be working off trail in dry conditions with gentle to steep slopes.
• Safety: We will be working mostly off trail, conditions are expected to be dry. There are some plants with thorns and there may be ticks and poison ivy. The best way to prevent these hazards is wearing appropriate clothing—closed-toed shoes, long pants, and long sleeves. Please bring a water bottle. Light snacks, work gloves, and tools will be provided.
• Registration Required: Register here.

Volunteer group size capped at 25; no drop-ins please.

This event is part of our ongoing forest health initiative, which was launched to help ensure the forests you love are here for generations to come. Read the press release announcing this effort here. You can save our forests—donate here to support this work.