The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 2 is inviting residents to take part in “Wildlife Day” on Saturday, October 4, 2025. The event will be held at two locations: St. Francis Woodlands in Staten Island and Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens.
“Wildlife Day provides a perfect opportunity to participate in wildlife conservation service projects and educational workshops across the state, celebrating New York’s diverse wildlife and habitats,” according to the DEC. The event is organized with Parks and Trails New York and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation as part of the Love Our New York Lands Stewardship Days Campaign. This campaign encourages year-round stewardship by offering themed events that highlight outdoor recreation resources throughout the state.
Volunteer registration for Wildlife Day is now open. The DEC encourages people to join their communities for cleanup activities, enhancement projects, or educational programs nearby.
At St. Francis Woodlands, volunteers are invited from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., meeting at the kiosk in the southern parking lot at 23 Cliffwood Ave, Staten Island. Ian Cleary can be contacted for more information at [email protected]. Participants will help with stewardship work followed by a guided hike along an accessible boardwalk to learn about urban forests’ role in air quality, cooling streets, and supporting local wildlife. “All are welcome – no experience necessary. Come for some or come for all and leave with a deeper connection to the city’s wild spaces.” Volunteers should bring close-toed shoes, water bottles, and suitable clothing for outdoor work and hiking. The hike will last between 45 minutes to one hour and is suitable for ages 13 and up.
At Gantry Plaza State Park’s Pier 4 in Long Island City, programming runs from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., with additional details available via [email protected]. Attendees can participate in a free fishing clinic—no license required—as well as contribute to community science efforts surveying eels and assessing East River water quality beginning at 2 p.m. All equipment will be provided during the fishing clinic; space is limited on a first-come basis but no registration is needed for this free event.
Both events aim to engage participants of varying ages while promoting environmental stewardship within urban settings.
