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In New York City, and a Fun Activity for As Part of the Treaty Commitment, Partners Will Work Together to the Whole Family

In New York City, and a Fun Activity for As Part of the Treaty Commitment, Partners Will Work Together to the Whole Family

Outdoors Outdoors THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE JANUARY / FEBRUARY / MARCH 2009 iinn NNewew YYorkork CCityity

Includes CALENDAR OF URBAN PARK RANGER FREE PROGRAMS

© Photo: Joshua Haviv | Dreamstime.com 2 CITY OF PARKS & RECREATION www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

Message from: Lynn Scarlett, Deputy Secretary of the Interior

an Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory They need watering holes in burghs and Birds. The wee owl found a perch of freedom the backcountry. Our Urban Conservation on an adjacent tree. Treaty with the City of New York provides a catalyst for conservation. This agreement America is now a Nation of cities and will spark conservation partnerships. New suburbs. We jog in a park, sit by a fountain, York joins 8 other cities as signatories of the or play in a school yard and see birds, Treaty. reminding us that we share this Earth with an ark of wildlife. Yet once-abundant Some 350 species of birds have been birds are in trouble. The National Audubon sighted in the City. is a Society has documented a 70 percent conservation cradle for migrating birds. decline in 20 common birds. Forty years In all, the City has nearly 53,000 acres of ago, scientist/author Rachel Carson wrote parkland comprising 26 percent of its land of an impending “silent spring.” We have area. Amid the hum and buzz of city life, not escaped the prospect of a silent these urban oases provide a foothold for spring. Conservation challenges test our Nature. They give us a lifeline to the natural stewardship. world around us. Above all, they help us assure that neither we—nor our children A rooftop in seemed an unlikely But conservation is not merely a matter and grandchildren thereafter—will awake spot to release a screech owl back to Nature. for rural outposts. We need a Nation of to a silent spring. I can think of no more Yet there we were, as ’s Parks citizen stewards in our towns. Birds need sustaining gift to their future. and Recreation Commissioner and I signed tree canopies in cities and the countryside. Outdoor News NEW YORK CITY BECOMES NINTH CITY IN NATION TO JOIN URBAN spring and fall. With 29,000 acres of City parkland and thousands CONSERVATION TREATY FOR MIGRATORY BIRDS of additional acres of open space, New York City has much to off er to migrating birds on the Atlantic coast. Interested in becoming a citizen scientist? Bird watching is a popular year-round activity in New York City, and a fun activity for As part of the Treaty commitment, partners will work together to the whole family. Local parks, which are located along the Atlantic improve New York City’s bird habitat by increasing stewardship, Flyaway bird migratory corridor, off er a variety of opportunities providing restoration of key areas and ensuring proper monitoring for beginning birdwatchers and avian afi cionados alike. During the in all New York City natural areas, including the City’s Important winter months, birders can strike out on their own in local parks Bird Areas, Forever Wild sites, and other critical habitats. like and Flushing Meadows Corona Park; go on a guided tour with the Urban Park Rangers in Marine Park or Van Birds are an aesthetic, cultural, scientifi c and economic resource to Cortlandt Park; or take part in an organized bird count in Central the Nation. Through this agreement, partners will work with New Park or to help identify bird populations, migratory York City to heighten public awareness of birds and the importance patterns, and environmental threats. Thanks to the Urban of open space to bird conservation through public programs and Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds, New York City is becoming events, including education programs for school children and even more bird friendly! citizen scientists. The City will also increase and improve protected natural areas, restore and protect existing nesting areas such as On October 17, New York City became the ninth city in the nation North Brother Island and the Rockaway Beach Endangered Species to sign an Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds. The Nesting Area, and develop a green-collar workforce through the Treaty, a partnership among The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New GreenApple Corps program. York City Parks & Recreation, Audubon New York and New York City Audubon, is a commitment to restore, conserve and protect The Urban Conservation Treaty Program started in 1999, when New valuable bird habitat within New York City’s urban environment Orleans became the fi rst Urban Conservation Treaty. Other Treaty and to develop an informed public through education and training cities include Chicago, Houston, Philadelphia, Portland, Ore., St. programs. Louis, Nashville and Anchorage.

Backed by a $65,000 challenge grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife For more information about migratory birds, visit www.fws.gov. Service, the Urban Conservation Treaty will support initiatives For information about free birding activities in New York City parks, throughout New York City. Partnering organizations will match the visit www.nyc.gov/parks or call 311. grant money with funding and “in-kind” contributions of goods and services, with a total contribution of more than $450,000. © THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

“I am honored to join with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Serviceiicceet toto aidaid in its eff orts to protect migratory birds,” said Parks & Recreationeaation Commissioner Adrian Benepe. “New York City’s parks are a crucialccrucial stopover for migratory birds and that is why it is critical thatt our parks provide a hospitable environment to these importantaant OutdoorsOutdoors members of our ecosystem. This agreement is a testament to ttheheh high quality of natural areas in New York City parks, thanks to inin NewNew YorkYork CityCity ongoing support from scientists, activists, local elected offi cials,, Planning Sarah Aucoin, Director community members, and public-private partnerships.” Editorial Matt Symons, Deputy Director OperationsOpeer Richard Simon, Captain Most people don’t immediately think of New York City as bird land,and,n ProgramsProgramm Marta Arroyo, Program Manager but ponds, lakes, native trees, and other plant life in city parks canan GraphicGraaphic Design Elizabeth Green, Graphic Artist provide important resting and breeding grounds for thousands of InternIntern Elaine Chang, Graphic Artist migrating birds that fl y through New York and other cities every Researchchh Shalini Beath Urban Park Rangers • 1234 • New York City 10029 URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 3 EMERGENCY SNOWSHOEING Picture this: You’re out in the woods, enjoying this is the last nail in the coffi n of winter your fi rst time trying your hand at winter camping for them. camping. The last forecast you heard was But wait! Deep in the recesses of your for snow, but in the name of adventure, mind, you recall a brief column you read you and your companions decide to press in a great new outdoors newspaper about on with the plans. Besides, snow can only making simple snowshoes out of materials enhance the experience. It’s a chilly night one might fi nd in the woods. Your near and everyone turns in early, anxious to test photographic memory tells you that it goes out the new gear. Your sleeping bag is rated something like this: for -20 degrees, which is a good thing, as temperatures plummet overnight. You awake Find a few pine branches or similar at sunrise to a sparkling landscape; for once, resources and strap them on to your the weather report was accurate. And then feet using a shoelace or string. This will some! What was originally a simple fi ve-mile distribute your weight more evenly and hike back to the trailhead and civilization has allow you to walk atop the snow instead of suddenly become a lot more serious. You through it, thereby dramatically increasing consider yourself a pretty hardy hiker, but your ability to make headway on the trail. you know that doesn’t apply to everyone Not only is it a fun craft project, but it’s a else. After a hearty breakfast at the now- whole new way for your friends to hike. extinguished campfi re, it’s time to hit the You save the day, the whole trip, and the trail. Thankfully, the trail is expertly blazed, possibility of a future winter camping so you know where you’re going, but the expedition. You hear Denali National Park sheer depth of the accumulated snow is has some good camping… Image provided by Dreamstime.com making for extremely diffi cult conditions and people are beginning to stumble and fall with some regularity. You had a heck of Join the Urban Park Rangers for free snowshoeing adventures at Park a time convincing this crew to agree to your in and learn about other outdoor survival skills with the Urban Park Rangers plan and you can basically guarantee that Explorer Programs!

From left: Marvin Moriarty, Northeast Regional Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Glenn Phillips, Executive Director, New York City Audubon; Lynn Scarlett, Deputy Secretary, Department of the Interior; Al Caccese, Executive Director, Audubon New York; Adrian Benepe, Commissioner, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation 4 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

City of New York Urban Park Rangers Parks & Recreation Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor EXPLORER PROGRAMS Adrian Benepe, Commissioner

Active Conservation Canoeing Nature Exploration Help to improve hiking trails, Get wet with the Urban Park Learn about flowers and birds, remove invasive plants, monitor Rangers and learn to canoe. First- wildlife, or stars in the sky. Bring animal populations, or plant native come, first-served, unless otherwise binoculars if you have them, and wildflowers. Bring water, a snack, noted. Bring a hat, water, sunscreen, flashlight for evening programs. and wear work clothes. and a snack. Ages 8 and up. Be prepared to get wet/dirty. Night Programs Artistic Expression Exhibits, Lectures & Explore the parks with the Urban Amateur and experienced artists Park Rangers at night. Camp, hike, and craftspeople encouraged to Films bird, star-gaze, and more. attend. Craft, sketching, and writing Enjoy art, movies, and lectures materials provided, but bring your highlighting local talent, natural Orienteering camera for photography programs. science, and history. Learn from the Learn to use a map and compass. experts in their fields. Wear sturdy shoes; bring a snack, Birding water, and binoculars if you have The Urban Park Rangers will teach Kids Activities them. you everything you need to know Join the Urban Park Rangers for to get started and try out your new a variety of children-centered Performing Arts, Live! skills on the trails. Each program activities. Nature crafts, sing-a- highlights different bird types and See, hear, and participate in poetry, longs, play dates, storytime, and dance, acting, readings, and open special park areas for bird. Look for more! seasonal highlights. microphone nights in our beautiful parks and nature centers. Camping History Come hear the fantastic stories our Special Events Bring a flashlight, a tent (some are parks and the Urban Park Rangers Our Special Events celebrate nature available to borrow), bedding, and have to tell. dinner. Some programs require and are great fun for all ages! RESERVATIONS (as noted in the listing, along with instructions). Hiking Space is limited! Adventure & leisure hikes with the Survival Urban Park Rangers. Nature, historic From knot-tying to fire-starting, walks & tours, orienteering, and shelter-building to water-collecting, more. Wear sturdy shoes; bring a the Rangers have workshops to snack, water, and binoculars if you help you safely enjoy your outdoors have them. experiences.

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U r b a n rs P e ark Rang RANGER STATIONS & NATURE CENTERS BRONX MANHATTAN Crotona Nature Center, seasonal (CNC): Crotona (BC): Central Park. 79th St., Park. Enter the park at Charlotte St. & Crotona mid-park. 212.628.2345 Park East. 718.378.2061 Dana Discovery Center (DDC): Central Park. Nature Center, seasonal (OBNC): 110th St. & Lenox Ave. 212.860.1376 . Section 2 of Orchard Beach. Inwood Hill Nature Center (IHNC): Inwood Hill 718.885.3466 Park. Enter park at W. 218th St. & Indian Road. Pelham Bay Ranger Station (PBRS): Pelham 212.304.2365 or 212.304.3401 Bay Park. Bruckner Blvd. & Wilkinson Ave. 718.885.3467 QUEENS Van Cortlandt Nature Center (VCNC): . Enter the park at W. 246th St. Adventure Center (APPAC): & . 718.548.0912 Alley Pond Park. Enter at Winchester Blvd., under the . 718.217.6034 or 718.217.4685 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 Salt Marsh Nature Center (SMNC): Marine Park. Blue Heron Nature Center (BHNC): Blue Heron East 33rd St. & Avenue U. 718.421.2021 Park. 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road Fort Greene Visitor Center (FGVC): Fort Greene & . 718.967.3542 Park. Enter the park at Myrtle Avenue and High Rock Ranger Station (HRRS): High Rock Washington Park. 718.722.3218 Park. Park in the lot at the end of Nevada Avenue, off Rockland Ave., and follow signs. URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers WINTER 2009 5

m f Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you should mfm stay inside—get out and enjoy the outdoors. f Rangers will introduce you to all the borough has to f Bronx off er, from winter hikes to winter birding and more. Sunday, January 25 Saturday, February 28 Wilderness Awareness and Survival / Van Forever Wild! John Muir Hike / Van Cortlandt Nature Center 1 p.m. / VCNC Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Broadway and What would you do if you were stranded Mosholu Avenue Stretch your legs and in the wild on a cold winter day? Learn breathe in the crisp winter air as we basic survival skills to help if you get lost traverse the park on the only east-west in the backcountry. You will be surprised at trail there is. Bundle up! Saturday, January 3 how useful some everyday items can be. Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / Sunday, March 1 VCNC Once a month, every month, come Saturday, January 31 Nature Photography Series: It’s all in the bird with us! Bring your own binoculars. Winter Scavenger Hunt / Van Cortlandt Details! / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / Shooting Stars / Pelham Bay Park 7 p.m. Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Search for the hidden VCNC This installment of our monthly / PBRS Join the Rangers for a viewing of treasures on the wooded trails of Van nature photography series is all about the the Quadrentids meteor shower! We’ll tuck Cortlandt Park. Fun for the whole family. details most of us overlook. Nature offers ourselves into a dark area of the park and Prizes! us many wonderful textures, patterns, and watch as the meteors come through. Bring small treasures. We will help you capture binoculars or telescopes, if you wish. Sunday, February 1 their beauty. Please bring your own camera. Nature Photography Series: Landscapes / Sunday, January 4 Pelham Bay Park 10 a.m. / PBRS Saturday, March 7 Nature Photography Series: Winter For this installment of our monthly series Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / Wildlife / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / we will “focus” on some of the park’s VCNC Once a month, every month, come VCNC Join us for the first installment of most picturesque landscapes. Learn some bird with us! Bring your own binoculars. our new monthly Nature Photography professional secrets of composition and lighting that will make your photograph Frozen Fungus Among-Us / Van Cortlandt series taking place the first Sunday Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Who would think of every month. Come learn some shine. Please bring your own camera. Tripods are recommended. that, in winter, dead tree trunks, fallen new photography skills as we go on a logs, and rotting stumps could be exciting winter safari in search of the parks most places to explore? photogenic critters. All skill levels welcome. Saturday, February 7 Please bring your own camera. Birding Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Once a month, every month, come Sunday, March 8 Saturday, January 10 bird with us! Bring your own binoculars. Enter the Twilight Zone / Pelham Bay Park 7 p.m. / PBRS There is no better way to Wacky Winter Waterfowl / Pelham Bay Secrets of Snowflakes / Pelham Bay Park celebrate the first day of Daylight Savings Park 10 a.m. / PBRS Join us the second 1 p.m. / PBRS What makes snowflakes so Time than taking a nocturnal hike with the Saturday of every month, for the next special? Bring your family and find out. Urban Park Rangers. Come explore the three months. Bring your own binoculars. Snowflake crafts for kids. park in search of crepuscular critters and Frosty Plants / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. possibly get a glimpse of Saturn. / VCNC Ever wonder how plants survive Sunday, February 8 in the colder months? Join the Rangers to Winter Wonderland! / Van Cortlandt Park Saturday, March 14 learn how. 11 a.m. / Broadway and Mosholu Avenue Wacky Winter Waterfowl / Pelham Bay Hike the Cass Gallagher trail with the Park 10 a.m. / PBRS Join us the second Sunday, January 11 Urban Park Rangers and experience the Saturday of every month, for the next Forever Wild! The Trail / Pelham park’s wondrous terrain. Please dress for three months. Bring your own binoculars. Bay Park 1 p.m. / Bartow-Pell Mansion, the weather. 895 Shore Road Take a walk on the wild Sunday, March 15 side as we hike through the largest park Saturday, February 14 Split Rock Hike / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. in New York City on the Siwanoy Trail. Wacky Winter Waterfowl / Pelham Bay / Split Rock Golf Course (meet at the With its changing terrain come endless Park 10 a.m. / PBRS Join us the second Parking Lot) Get a bit of exercise mixed possibilities for adventure. Please dress for Saturday of every month, for the next in with some history as we hike to Split the weather. three months. Bring your own binoculars. Rock and learn about the history of the surrounding area. Saturday, January 17 Valentine’s Day Eco-Crafts / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Get the creative juices Who, Who Do You See? / Pelham Bay flowing as we look to nature to inspire Saturday, March 21 Park 11 a.m. / PBRS Search for the great crafts for your loved ones. Springtime Meanderings / Van Cortlandt horned, saw-whet and long ear owls along Park 11 a.m. / VCNC Dust off your hiking the shores of and in the boots and help us welcome springtime! pine grove of Orchard Beach. To register, Sunday, February 15 please call 718.548.0912 on Monday, Washington’s Troops on the Hill / Van Sunday, March 22 January 12. Space is limited, so hurry! Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC In honor of Presidents’ Day, join the Rangers for Spring Awakenings / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / OBNC Many plants and animals Sunday, January 18 an exploration of the park as we learn about the Founding Fathers’ exploits in the are awakening from their winter naps. On The Right Track / Pelham Bay Park historic Bronx. Come take a walk with the Rangers as we 1 p.m. / PBRS Put your tracking skills to search for the first signs of spring. the test as we follow in the footsteps of Saturday, February 21 rabbits, deer, coyote, and turkey might be Saturday, March 28 waiting at the end of our travels. Winter Wildflowers / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC An exploration of Early Spring Migrants / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / Broadway and Mosholu Avenue Saturday, January 24 the shapes and texture of wildflowers in winter. Here come the warblers! Well, it’s a little Winter Waterfowl / Van Cortlandt Park early, but the very first of the migratory 10 a.m. / VCNC A great variety of ducks birds are coming through, and we’re going and other birds spend the winter at Sunday, February 22 to find them! Van Cortlandt Lake. Learn some interesting Owl Prowl / Pelham Bay Park 1 p.m. / facts about them. OBNC Join the Urban Park Rangers as we hike Hunter Island in search of owls. Don’t Sunday, March 29 Seal-Shore Safari / Pelham Bay Park forget your binoculars. “Hoo” would want March of the Penguins / Van Cortlandt 1 p.m. / OBNC They hang out by the to miss out on this? Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Come in from the beach between December & March and cold and celebrate the end of March as are visible during low tide. Wear warm and we show the Academy Award winning comfortable clothes. Bring binoculars if you documentary “March of the Penguins”. have them. Popcorn and hot chocolate will be served. 6 Outdoors in in NewNew YorkYork CityCity www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers mmmURBAN PARK RANGERS This winter, take a walk back in time to experience mmm the American Revolution, the Underground Railroad, architectural marvels, and more. mmm The Brooklyn Rangers will be your guides as you explore Kings County. Brooklyn Saturday, January 3 Saturday, January 10 cont’d Sunday, January 18 cont’d Early Morning Birding / Marine Park GPS to the Past / 1 p.m. African Americans and the American 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park / FGVC Learn how to use a Global Position Revolution / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful System unit and follow our coordinates FGVC In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Salt Marsh and discover which birds are to learn about Fort Greene Park’s Day, we’ll examine the often overlooked toughing it out over the winter. distinguished history. contributions of African Americans in the fight for America’s independence. Winter Waterfowl / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Winter’s here and ducks and geese Sunday, January 11 Brooklyn Book Blitz / Marine Park 3 p.m. abound. Bring your binoculars and dress Food Chain Champions / Fort Greene Park / SMNC See Sunday, January 4th listing. for the cold as we look for some of the 1 p.m. / FGVC Discover what food chains birds that spend their winters in the Salt exist in your own back yard. Find out who Saturday, January 24 Marsh. are the best hunters and how others avoid being their dinner. Early Morning Birding / Marine Park Orienteering to the Past / Fort Greene 8 a.m. / SMNC A birding tour of the Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn how to use a Brooklyn Book Blitz / Marine Park 3 p.m. beautiful Salt Marsh and discover which compass while learning about the past. / SMNC See Sunday, January 4th listing birds are toughing it out over the winter After learning the basics of orienteering, Forever Evergreen / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / follow our coordinates to knowledge about Monday, January 12 Picnic House, Prospect Park West and Fort Greene Park’s distinguished past. Monday Night Lecture Series: Portside 3 Street Take a hike with the Urban Park New York: the Mary Whalen / Marine Rangers as we focus on the plants that Sunday, January 4 Park 7 p.m. / SMNC Join Director Carolina stay green all year long. Brooklyn Book Blitz / Marine Park Salguero of Portside New York and learn 1 p.m. / SMNC It’s Book Blitz Month! all about the organization which advocates Tools of the Revolution / Fort Greene Park Every Sunday in January bring the kids “for the working waterfront.” Learn about 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn about the weapons, for a read-along with the rangers. Craft NYC’s waterways and Tanker: the Mary cookware and tools that were used activity follows Whalen. during the Revolutionary War and were considered state of the art. Journey Through Time / Downtown Saturday, January 17 Brooklyn & Brooklyn Heights 1 p.m. / Early Morning Birding / Marine Park Sunday, January 25 Meet at Brooklyn Borough Hall, Tillary 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park Composting 101 at the Salt Marsh/ Street and West This edition Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful Marine Park 11 a.m. / SMNC Come learn of our popular walking tour will showcase Salt Marsh and discover which birds are the basics of composting. The benefits two of Brooklyn’s oldest neighborhoods. toughing it out over the winter will blow you away. Your garden or Wear comfortable shoes; the tour will last potted plants will never need store bought approximately 2 ½ hours. Winter Scavenger Hunt / Marine Park fertilizer again!!! 1 p.m. / SMNC A winter salt marsh Saturday, January 10 scavenger hunt. Children under 14. Trains & Trolleys / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. Early Morning Birding / Marine Park / FGVC Remember the days of streetcars? Journey Through Time / Fort Greene Park Head back to the good old days, when 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Stretch your legs and get Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful trolleys clattered and clanged along the some fresh air as we explore the history streets of Brooklyn. Salt Marsh and discover which birds are of the neighborhood of Fort Greene. toughing it out over the winter Wear comfortable shoes; the tour will last Brooklyn Book Blitz / Marine Park 3 p.m. Winter Wildlife / Prospect Park 1 p.m. approximately 1 hour. / SMNC See Sunday, January 4th listing. / , enter park at Parkside Avenue and Lincoln Road Dress for the Sunday, January 18 Saturday, January 31 cold and join the Urban Park Rangers History Club: New York TV / Marine Park Early Morning Birding / Marine Park as we search for some of the animals in 1 p.m. / SMNC “One of these days Alice... 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park Prospect Park that remain active all winter to the moon.” Join us for a fun and lively Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful long. discussion on TV shows that are tied to Salt Marsh and discover which birds are New York City. Come reminisce and discuss toughing it out over the winter. your favorites! Winter Wonderland Hike / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Meet at the Audubon Center Dress for the weather and join the Urban Park Rangers through Prospect Park and discover the stark beauty the park possesses in winter. Great walk for nature photographers! Orienteering to the Past / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn how to use a compass and follow our coordinates to learn about Fort Greene Park’s distinguished past. Sunday, February 1 Animal Adaptations / Prospect Park 1 p.m. / Meet at the Audubon Center Learn the adaptations that animals use to cope with the winter weather while hiking the Midwood trail. Journey Through Time / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC This time, we’re exploring the lovely neighborhood of Fort Greene. Wear comfortable shoes; the tour will last approximately 2 hours. URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers mmmWINTER 2009 7 mmm Brooklyn mmm Monday, February 2 KIDS’ WEEK February 16-20 Sunday, March 1 Monday Night Lecture Series: Parks of Who Goes There? / Marine Park 1 p.m. / the West / Marine Park 7 p.m. / SMNC Kids’ Week at the Marsh! / Marine SMNC Enjoy a walk around the nature trail Take a southwest trip through a slide show Park 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – while we look for tracks left behind by our presentation and visit some of America’s 3 p.m. / SMNC Spend mid-winter salt marsh neighbors. most beautiful national parks break with the Urban Park Rangers exploring the salt marsh at Marine Journey Through Time / Cobble Hill Park. Nature walks, crafts, team- 1 p.m. / Meet at Court Street & Atlantic Saturday, February 7 building activities, performances, and Avenue Explore lovely Cobble Hill and the Early Morning Birding / Marine Park more. Morning and afternoon activities. Promenade. Don’t forget your camera to 8 a.m. / SMNC A birding tour of the capture the best view of the city’s skyline. beautiful Salt Marsh and discover which Wear comfortable shoes; the tour will last birds are toughing it out over the winter. Kids Week at the Fort! /Fort Greene Park approximately 2 ½ hours. 1 p.m. / FGVC Schools out and the kids GPS to the Past / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. are bored. What to do? Come to Fort / FGVC Learn how to use a Global Position Greene to learn about history and nature Monday, March 2 System unit and follow our coordinates then make crafts to take home. Monday Night Lecture Series: Silence to learn about Fort Greene Park’s of the Bees / Marine Park 7 p.m. / distinguished past. MONDAY—American History SMNC What’s happening to the Honey Bee population? Join us for the PBS Saturday Night Live: Lunar New Year / TUESDAY—Bugs documentary Silence of the Bees and a Marine Park 7 p.m. / SMNC It’s the year discussion with an 8th generation (and the WEDNESDAY—Birds of the Ox! Come join us for our annual Salt Marsh Nature Center’s) Bee Keeper family fun celebration of the Lunar New Ross Ber. Year. THURSDAY—Wildlife FRIDAY—Native Americans Saturday March 7 Sunday, February 8 Early Morning Birding / Marine Park Nature in Winter / Marine Park 10 a.m. 8 a.m. / SMNC A birding tour of the / SMNC Join the Rangers on a salt marsh Saturday February 21 beautiful Salt Marsh and discover which exploration and learn about the many Early Morning Birding / Marine Park birds are toughing it out over the winter different organisms that call the salt marsh 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park home… even in the winter! GPS Scavenger Hunt / Marine Park 1 p.m. Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful / SMNC Learn to use a handheld GPS and Salt Marsh and discover which birds are Survivor: Marine Park / Marine Park go on a scavenger hunt with the Urban toughing it out over the winter 1 p.m. / SMNC Play the ultimate survival Park Rangers. GPS units will be provided. game and see how you would fare in a Historic Houses / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. survival situation, then hear tales of how History On The Hill / Fort Greene Park / FGVC Take a virtual tour of NYC’s oldest others survived horrible accidents. 1 p.m. / FGVC The remains of over 11,000 homes, from Van Cortlandt all the way patriots are interred in the crypt under the up in the northern reaches of the Bronx Urban Legends / Fort Greene Park Prison Ship Martyrs Monument. Discover down to the Conference House in southern 1 p.m. / FGVC This is the first of a series the fascinating story of how they came to . of fascinating discussions. Tonight, we’ll rest here. discuss our favorite urban legends, such as Who-Who-Who Did I Eat? / Marine the phantom hitchhiker, the babysitter, and Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park alligators in the sewers. Sunday March 8 Rangers for a hands-on ecology lesson as Women’s History Tea Party / Fort Greene we dissect owl pellets. Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Let’s hear it for the Saturday, February 14 girls! In honor of Women’s History Month, Early Morning Birding / Marine Park Sunday February 22 we’ll discuss how our foremothers shaped 8 p.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park Recycle-Mania / Marine Park 10 a.m. our history. Enjoy a cup of tea and biscuits. Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful / SMNC Come learn the facts about Salt Marsh and discover which birds are Global Warming / Marine Park 3 p.m. recycling in New York City. Bring your toughing it out over the winter. / SMNC Join the Rangers for an indoor empty aluminum coffee cans/soda cans for discussion about the facts and myths of a surprise activity… Happy Birthday Charles Darwin! / Marine global warming. Park 1 p.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park Brooklyn’s Beautiful Brownstones & Rangers as we celebrate Charles Darwin’s Buildings / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / birthday with a nature hike focusing on Saturday, March 14 FGVC Take a virtual tour of the borough’s evolutionary adaptations Early Morning Birding / Marine Park architecturally interesting buildings. From 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park All the President’s Men / Fort Greene brownstones to churches to mansions and Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Join the Urban Park cottages, we have them all. Salt Marsh and discover which birds are Rangers and discover who were George toughing it out over the winter. Washington’s closest confidants during and Saturday, February 28 after the Revolutionary War. Early Morning Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park Sunday, February 15 Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful History Club: African Americans of New Salt Marsh and discover which birds are York / Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC In toughing it out over the winter. celebration of Black History Month come Hike the Lullwater / Prospect Park find out about the contributions of New 1 p.m. / Wollman Rink Join the Urban York City’s African Americans. Park Rangers on a hike through Prospect Presidential Secrets / Fort Greene Park Park’s Lullwater trail. Dress for the weather. 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn little known Orienteering to the Past / Fort Greene facts about our Commanders in Chief. Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn how to use Then stick around to win prizes in our a compass and follow our coordinates Presidential Trivia Contest. to learn about Fort Greene Park’s distinguished past. 8 Outdoors in in NewNew YorkYork CityCity www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers mmmURBAN PARK RANGERS mmm Brooklyn mmm Saturday, March 14 cont’d Saturday March 21 cont’d Fort Greene’s Birthday / Fort Greene Park Wonderful Walt Whitman / Fort Greene 1 p.m. / FGVC Learn about Fort Greene’s Park 1 p.m. / FGVC During this month history during this month of its birth. What of his death, celebrate the life of one of was Fort Greene’s birth name? By whom Fort Greene Park’s founding fathers. Bring and why was it built? in your favorite Whitman or Whitman- inspired poem to share. Saturday Night Live: Spiritual Warrior Ardigo / Marine Park 7 p.m. / SMNC Spiritual Warrior Joe Ardigo is back for a Sunday March 22 night of acoustic entertainment of songs History Club: New York Crimes/ Marine with Brooklyn inspiration. Park 1 p.m. / SMNC “Who done it?” What’s the history of crime solving and crimes of New York City? Maybe we can Sunday March 15 solve some... History of Owl’s Head / Owl’s Head Park 1 p.m. / Meet at the park house at Sounds of Nature / Fort Greene Park Colonial Avenue Discover the history of 1 p.m. / FGVC Close your eyes and open Saturday March 28 cont’d one of Brooklyn’s favorite neighborhood your ears and mind. Listen to the different Brooklyn Brews / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. parks on this Ranger-led walk in beautiful sounds of nature and learn to identify / FGVC Brooklyn was once the home of Owl’s Head Park. them. many breweries. Learn all about Kings County’s sudsy past, and take a look at the Saturday March 21 Saturday March 28 new generations of beer being made here once again. Early Morning Birding / Marine Park Early Morning Birding / Marine Park 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park 8 a.m. / SMNC Join the Urban Park Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful Rangers for a birding tour of the beautiful Sunday March 29 Salt Marsh and discover which birds are Salt Marsh and discover which birds are Designing a Native Plant Garden / Marine starting to return to the Marsh and who’s starting to return to the Marsh and who’s Park 10 a.m. / SMNC Join the Rangers getting ready to fly North. getting ready to fly north. for an indoor lesson on the importance of native plant selection for your gardens First Day of Spring! / Marine Park 1 p.m. Forest Pathology / Prospect Park 1 p.m. and landscape. You’ll be surprised on the / SMNC Join the Urban Park Rangers on / Meet at the Audubon Center Join the ecological impact your gardening decisions a salt marsh hike focusing on the changes Urban Park Rangers for a hike through the make! of spring. Midwood and learn about some of the fungi and insects that affect a forest. The Giving Trees / Fort Greene Park 1 p.m. / FGVC Discover Fort Greene Park’s surprisingly vast collection of trees. Learn how some trees got their names.

Join the Urban Park Rangers!Rangers! LookingLo for birding walks inn your borough? Want to meetm other birders? The Looking for hiking in your borough? BIRDINGUrbanUr Park Rangers offer bird Need motivation? The Urban Park walkswa and talks. Rangers offer adventure & birding hikingHIKINGleisure hikes, nature & historic walks and tours, and orienteering events. free!FREE!! canoeing CANOEING Looking for canoeing in your borough? Want to meet other canoeists? The Urban Park Rangers offer basic canoeing programs and canoe VISIT TODAY for more information at expeditions. www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers or call 866.692.4295 URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers WINTER 2009 9

Join the Rangers to learn about Manhattan’s history on our walking tours—from parks to neighborhoods there is something for everyone. Manhattan Saturday, January 3 Saturday, January 17 Saturday, February 7th cont’d Early Morning Eagle Watch / Inwood Hill Early Morning Eagle Watch / Inwood Hill Native American Drum and Dance Park 8 a.m. / Meet at the entrance to Park 8 a.m. / Meet at the entrance to with Louis Mofsie / Dyckman Fields This is the best time of Dyckman Fields See Saturday, January 3 12 p.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center the year to watch for bald eagles, so bring listing. Join us for an afternoon of Native your binoculars and join the Rangers for an American Music and Dance with Louis exciting morning of bird watching. Forever Wild! Central Park 12 p.m. / Meet Mofsie (Hopi/Winnebago). Learn the at Dana Discovery Center (110 Street and history, legends, music, and dance of ) Enjoy a hike through the various Native American tribes. North Woods into the Loch and down to the Rambles, as we explore the “Forever Wild” sites of Central Park. Sunday, February 8 Geology by the River / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / Dyckman Ball Fields (western Sunday, January 18 most end of Dyckman Avenue) Join us Crafty Nature / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. as we explore the geological formations / IHNC Join the Inwood Hill craft-loving across the . Afterward, we Rangers to make something creative and will trek through Inwood Hill Park and find natural! out what’s really Gneiss. Nuts about Squirrels / Central Park 1 p.m. Let’s Go Fly a Kite / Central Park 1 p.m. / / Belvedere Castle This week celebrates Meet at south side of Great Lawn You’re our nutty and furry friends. Let’s take a never too old, and it’s never too cold, to walk through the ramble to observe and fly a kite. Bundle up, grab your best flying track them. We’ll finish with some fun machine, and let’s have an extravaganza. squirrel-inspired natural crafts. If you don’t own a kite, we’ll be able to make our own from crafty materials. A Well-Trodden Path / Central Park Saturday, January 24 12 p.m. / Meet at north side of Columbus Early Morning Eagle Watch / Inwood Hill Circle Ring in the New Year with the feel Saturday, February 14 Park 8 a.m. / Meet at the entrance to of your shoes hoofin’ it down the bridle Valentine’s Day Hike / Inwood Hill Park Dyckman Fields See Saturday, January 3 path in Central Park. 10 a.m. / IHNC Come and meet new listing. people on this Ranger-led hike in the Sunday, January 4 Feathered and Furry Friends / Central oldest growth forest of Manhattan. Baby It’s Cold Outside / Inwood Hill Park Park 1 p.m. / Belvedere Castle Explore the To the Bard! / Central Park 2 p.m. / 11 a.m. / IHNC Join the Rangers in the city’s least favorite citizens and learn some Belvedere Castle For a day of romance, nature center where it’s warm and watch unexpected things about these creatures. let’s experience the most romantic, a movie! Fun for kids of all ages. dramatic garden around. Bring your scripts and we’ll recite our favorite poems and Neighborhood Tour: Ladies’ Mile/ Sunday, January 25 passages in Shakespeare Garden. 11 a.m. / Meet at Union Square Park, Clean up! / Inwood Hill Park / Inwood E. 14 Street and Union Square East Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC Come and This popular meeting spot has been a Sunday, February 15 help the Rangers keep this natural forest prominent location in NYC history. We will Nature Scavenger Hunt / Inwood Hill beautiful and clean search out its history, including Ladies’ Mile Park 10 a.m. / IHNC Put your nature and . Tour ends in Union Composting with the Rangers / Central knowledge to the test and show the Square Park. Park 1 p.m. / Belvedere Castle Learn how Rangers what you’ve got! to recycle and compost with the Rangers Neighborhood Tour / Saturday, January 10 and all of its advantages. 12 p.m. / Meet at Broadway and Early Morning Eagle Watch / Inwood Hill Chambers Street What’s all the fuss over Park 8 a.m. / Meet at the entrance to Saturday, January 31 the Financial District? Maybe we’ll be able Dyckman Fields See Saturday, January 3 Early Morning Eagle Watch / Inwood Hill to tell you, from a Ranger’s perspective. listing. Park 8 a.m. / Meet at the entrance to Take a walk with us from City Hall to Dyckman Fields See Saturday, January 3 Battery Park. The Winter Woods/ Central Park 12 p.m. listing. / Meet at Dana Discovery Center 110 Saturday, February 21 Street and Lenox Ave. Explore the wild Jackie Robinson’s Birthday Celebration / wonderland of Central Parks North Woods. 11 a.m. / Meet at Winter Speed Hike / Inwood Hill Park 145 Street and Edgecombe Avenue Enjoy 10 a.m. / Inwood Hill Nature Center Sunday, January 11 some baseball inspired activities as we Melt away your winter blues with a vigorous speed hike though the trails of Speed Hike / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. enjoy this beautiful park and learn more about Jackie Robinson’s history. Inwood Hill Park. A great way to take / IHNC Warm up with a very brisk walk in the beautiful winter landscape of the through Manhattan’s last remaining natural oldest growth forest of Manhattan, while forest! Sunday, February 1 getting your heart rate going. Birding 101 / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. Hallet Unlocked: Central Park 12 p.m. / / IHNC If you’re looking for a hobby and Orienteering / Central Park 11 a.m. / Meet at Gapstow Bridge Central Parks you love animals, then let the Rangers Meet at North Meadow Recreation Center, only nature preserve will be opened for teach you the basics of birding. (96 Street, Mid-park) Test your map your enjoyment. Learn about its history reading skills and get your hiking boots and enjoy some special birding as we Central Park History Tour / Central Park on. Will you have the quickest finish time? peruse its paths. 12 p.m. / DDC Enjoy a hike down to Great activity for all ages, come participate Belvedere Castle as we talk about the as a team or on your own. Tuesday, January 13 history of Central Park. Winter Stargazing / Central Park 6:30- Sunday, February 22 8 p.m. / Dana Discovery Center 110 Street Saturday, February 7th Urban Park Ranger Puppet Theater / and Lenox Avenue Come enjoy a night of Birding on the Bridle / Central Park Inwood Hill Park 1 p.m. / IHNC Bring the stars. No, not the ones in movies but the 10 a.m. / Meet at 90 Street and 5th family for an entertaining puppet show ones up in the sky. Learn about the night Avenue Enjoy a hike around the bridle path featuring fun forest creatures! sky of the Andromeda galaxy, and many as we look for our fluffy friends in winter. other winter highlights. 10 Outdoors in in NewNew YorkYork CityCity www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers aaaURBAN PARK RANGERS aaaa Manhattan aaa Sunday, March 15 cont’d Ides of March Hike / Central Park 5 p.m. / Belvedere Castle A cloud of gloom hangs over the Ides of March. Let’s take this opportunity to take a spooky walk through Central Park after dark. Saturday, March 21 Eco-Art Event / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC Join the Rangers as we recycle everyday objects to make something new and creative. Out on a Limb Part I / Central Park 2 p.m. / Belvedere Castle In NYC, people and animals often cross paths in the parks. Learn more about park rangers’ relationship with wildlife and domestic animals. Meet some of our partners, animal rescue specialists, veterinarians, and rehabilitators. Please call 212.628.2345 to register. Sunday, March 22 In the Heights Series: III / 10 a.m. / Meet at Margaret Corbin Circle This series highlights the great parks of Sunday, February 22 cont’d Saturday, March 7 Washington Heights. Join the Rangers on Recycle Remix / Central Park 1 p.m. / Winter Speed Hike / Fort Tryon Park a walk through beautiful Fort Tryon Park, Meet at 106 Street and 5 Avenue Test your 10 a.m. / Meet at Margaret Corbin which is home to the Cloisters! knowledge about recycling. Learn about Circle Melt away your winter blues with Neighborhood Tour / Central Park 11 a.m. some of the City’s sustainable programs a vigorous speed hike though the trails of / Meet at 110 Street and 5 Avenue Stroll and explore Central Park’s own compost Fort Tryon Park. A great way to take in the through with the Rangers. We’ll hill. beautiful winter landscape of the oldest jump from green space to green space, growth forest of Manhattan, while getting talking about the history and culture of the Saturday, February 28 your heart rate going. neighborhood along the way. Birding by the Water / Riverside Park Ramble Scramble / Central Park 12 10 a.m. / Meet at and p.m. / Belvedere Castle Come dust off Saturday, March 28 Riverside Drive Enjoy a birding hike along your hiking boots as we do some rock Nature Bingo / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / the water’s edge at Riverside Park. scrambling. A great fun fact-filled walk for IHNC Bingo the nature way?!? Yes! Come African Drumming / Inwood Hill Park curious geologists with lots of energy. see how much you can learn just by having 12 p.m. / IHNC Celebrate vibrant African fun playing an old classic. music and culture for Black History Month Sunday, March 8 by learning traditional African drum In the Heights Series: I / Highbridge rhythm on the djembe, talking drum, and Park 10 a.m. / Meet at the 165th Street udu. Learn about the history, legend, and entrance on Edgecombe Avenue This series origin of these rhythms. highlights the great parks of Washington Heights. Join the Rangers on a walk Sunday, March 1 through , which is part of the Old Trail. Girl Scout for a Day / Central Park 12 p.m. / Meet at 106 Street and Central Park West March 12th is Girl Scout Day. In honor of our young ladies of adventure, we’re going to discuss survival tactics and utilize the park to demonstrate how humans too can get by in the wild without daily conveniences. Out on a Limb Part II / Central Park 2 p.m. / Belvedere Castle See March 21 Saturday, March 14 listing. Please call 212.628.2345 to register. Clean Up, Clean Up! / Inwood Hill Park 10 a.m. / IHNC Come help keep the oldest Sunday, March 29 growth forest in Manhattan looking new! In the Heights Series: IV / Inwood Hill Around the Reservoir / Central Park Park 10 a.m. / IHNC This is the final park Early Bird Walk / Central Park 9 a.m. / 1 p.m. / Meet at 106 Street and 5 Avenue of the series that highlights the great parks Belvedere Castle Look for early spring We’ll explore the significance of the of Washington Heights. We’ve made it migrants in Central Park. reservoir and its surroundings on a walking to the top! Join the Rangers on a walk Insect Insanity / Inwood Hill Park lap around this world famous loop. through natural and beautiful Inwood Hill 10 a.m. / IHNC Here’s a crazy fact: there Park, where it’s thought that Manhattan are more insects than people in the world! Sunday, March 15 was “bought” from the Native Americans. Come join the Rangers as we learn more In the Heights Series: II / Fort Washington Garden Walk / interesting insect facts and go on an insect Park 10 a.m. / Meet at 181 Street and 12 p.m. / Meet at 9 Street and hunt! (west of Broadway) Bring your walking shoes—we’re in for a This series highlights the great parks of trek through the community gardens of Washington Heights. Join the Rangers on a the . We’ll start and end in walk through Fort Washington Park, which Tompkins Square Park. is home to the Little Red Lighthouse. URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers WINTER 2009 11

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. Queens Saturday, January 3 Sunday, January 17 cont’d Saturday, February 7 Nature Photography / Alley Pond Park Denizens of the Dark / Arts & Crafts / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. 1 p.m. / APPAC With the Rangers, you’ll 4:30 p.m. / Meet at parking lot on Union / Meet at Fort Totten Visitors Center, get some perspective on the up-close Turnpike & 197 Street Join the Rangers Ordnance and Lee Road Bring your child beauty of nature, both flora and fauna. for an after-hours visit looking for bats, to our new visitors center to enjoy hot Bring your own camera and take home raccoons, owls, and whatever else lurks in chocolate and projects that teach your some printable memories. Beginners the dark. Bring a flashlight, but leave your youngster about nature. welcome. fear at home. Animal Tracking / 12 p.m. / Meet at Rose & Oak Avenues entrance Sunday, January 4 Sunday, January 18 Animals leave behind different signs of Duck, Duck, Goose / Flushing Meadows their whereabouts, from scat to tracks. Corona Park 10 a.m. / Meet at Mauro With the Rangers, you’ll learn to keep Playground (Park Drive East & 73rd track of them all. Terrace) See January 10 description. Woodpecker Walk / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / Sunday, February 8 Fort Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance and Loons, Grebes, and Buffleheads…OH MY! Lee Road With its reinforced skull and a / Fort Totten Park 10 a.m. / Meet at Fort chiseled bill the woodpecker is a true New Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance and Lee Yorker. These year-round residents can be Road Come walk along the waters of Little found in abundance and with ease. Meet Neck Bay to discover the diverse winter an expert and learn about these delightful birding in your back yard. Binoculars birds. (Snowshoeing, weather permitting.) provided. The Four Elements of Survival: Part III / Saturday, January 24 Forest Park 12 p.m. / FPVC See January Ponds of the Park: Part I / Alley Pond 11 description. Part III focuses on the Park 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. / Alley Pond importance of building a proper fire. Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Winter Tree I.D. / Kissena Park 11 a.m. / Blvd, Douglaston, NY 11363 In this three Meet at Rose & Oak Ave. entrance With part series, the Urban Park Rangers team Saturday, February 14 the Rangers teaching you how to identify up with the Alley Pond Environmental Nature Poetry / Forest Park 11 a.m. / Oak trees without leaves, you’ll never “bark up Center to teach you about the park’s Ridge, intersection of Forest Park Drive & the wrong tree” again. prolific ponds. Today you’ll venture Forest Parkway Start your Valentine’s Day outdoors to learn about the ecology of by listening to poetry readings in the cozy Saturday, January 10 Alley Pond, followed by hot cocoa and setting of Oak Ridge, a beautiful, historic building within Forest Park. Hot cocoa and Woodpecker Walk / Fort Totten 10 a.m. / coffee indoors. Free of charge. To register, call 718.229.4000. coffee provided. Call 718.846.2731 to Fort Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance and register. Lee Road With its reinforced skull and a Story Time for Children / Fort Totten Park chiseled bill the woodpecker is a true New 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitors Center Street, Valentine’s Day Hike / Alley Pond Park Yorker. These year-round residents can be Ordnance and Lee Road Join the rangers 1 p.m. / APPAC Come to Alley Pond Park found in abundance and with ease. Meet for some reading fun with some of your for a cool weather nature hike through the an expert and learn about these delightful favorite nature books. woods with other New Yorkers. birds. (Snowshoeing, weather permitting.) Duck, Duck, Goose / Sunday, January 25 Sunday, February 15 11 a.m. / Meet at Jamaica Avenue & The Four Elements of Survival: Part II / Where Did They All Go? Animal & Plant Elton Street As the weather gets cold, the Forest Park 12 p.m. / FPVC See January Hibernation / Fort Totten 1 p.m. / Meet birding gets hot. Join the Rangers as we 11 description. Part II focuses on the at Fort Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance look for ducks and geese that think NYC importance of collecting drinkable water. and Lee Road Ever walk around when it’s in the winter is warm! cold and wonder how plants and animals survive through the winter? Join the Saturday, January 31 Rangers and find out. Sunday, January 11 Duck, Duck, Goose / Baisley Pond Park Native American Powwow Presentation / 11 a.m. / Meet at parking lot on Baisley Denizens of the Dark / Alley Pond Park Fort Totten 11 a.m. / Fort Totten Visitors Blvd. & 155 Street See January 10 listing. 4:30 p.m. / APPAC See January 17 listing. Center, Ordnance and Lee Road Visit Fort Totten for some singing and dancing with Making Tracks / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. Saturday, February 21 the 1492 Native American Dance Troupe. / Meet at Fort Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance and Lee Road Learn how to Duck, Duck, Goose / Flushing Meadows The Four Elements of Survival: Part I / identify and locate animal tracks found in Corona Park 10 a.m. / Meet at Mauro Forest Park 2 p.m. / FPVC In this four and around woodland areas, then make Playground (Park Drive East & 73 Terrace) part series, the Rangers will teach you your own animal track decorations out of See January 10 listing. about the four basic elements of wilderness paper or clay. Loons, Grebes, and Buffleheads…OH MY! survival: shelter, water, fire, and food. / Fort Totten Park 10 a.m. / Meet at Fort Part I focuses on the importance of Sunday, February 1 Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance and Lee building a good shelter. Snowshoeing Hike / Cunningham Park Road Come walk along the waters of Little 10 a.m. / Union Turnpike and 196 Street Neck Bay to discover the diverse winter Saturday, January 17 Walk through this winter wonderland in birding in your back yard. Binoculars Local History Club / Fort Totten Park style with a pair of our snowshoes. We’ll provided. 3 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitors Center, scout the area for woodpeckers, raccoons, Ordnance and Lee Road January’s theme and all winter wildlife while climbing over Sunday, February 22 will be winter encampments during the the rolling trails of Cunningham Park. Arts & Crafts / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. Civil War. Although campaigns did not Snowshoes provided. If no snow, we’ll just / Meet at Fort Totten Visitors Center, cease during wintertime, the coldest hike! Ordnance and Lee Road Bring your months of the year were not ideal for children to our new visitors center to enjoy battles. Find out how soldiers passed the Groundhog Day / Forest Park 12 p.m. / hot chocolate and projects that teach your time when encamped in winter quarters. FPVC While everyone waits to see if the groundhog sees his shadow tomorrow, youngster about nature. learn about the history of this “holiday” and the animal itself today. 12 Outdoors in in NewNew YorkYork CityCity www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS nnn nnvnvnnv Queens Saturday, March 21 cont’d Local History Club / Fort Totten Park 3 p.m. / Meet at Fort Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance and Lee Road In honor of Women’s History Month, March’s theme will be about the role of women during the Civil War. Discovery how Clara Barton, Harriet Tubman, and Lucretia Mott shaped the lives and times of fellow women and powerful men during an age when women were not expected to shape public policies. Sunday, March 22 From Slumber to Spring / Cunningham Park 10 a.m. / Meet at parking lot on Union Turnpike & 197 Street 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. Blast from the Past / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitors Center Street, Ordnance and Lee Road Witness the historic opening of our newest exhibit. Get to know Fort Totten the community, Sunday, February 22 cont’d Sunday, March 8 the people who lived here, how they dressed and what this place looked like The Four Elements of Survival: Part IV / A Century of Building / Fort Totten Park fifty, seventy, and even one hundred years Forest Park 12 p.m. / FPVC See January 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitors Center Street, ago. This pictorial exhibit will be open for 11 description. Part IV focuses on the Ordnance and Lee Road Travel back a a limited time only. Afterward, take a walk importance of foraging for food. century or more and explore examples and visit the locations in the photos. of Colonial Revival architecture found on Saturday, February 28 this former military base. We’ll identify Saturday, March 28 Ponds of the Park: Part II / Alley Pond the buildings and point out their unique architectural features. Ponds of the Park: Part III / Alley Pond Park 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. / Alley Pond Park 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. / Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Saturday, March 14 Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd, Douglaston, NY 11363 In this 3 part Blvd, Douglaston, NY 11363 In this 3 part series, the Urban Park Rangers team up Health Hike / Kissena Park 10 a.m. / Meet series, the Urban Park Rangers team up with the Alley Pond Environmental Center at Rose & Oak Avenues entrance Let your with the Alley Pond Environmental Center to teach you about the park’s prolific feet do the walking, while the Rangers do to teach you about the park’s prolific ponds. Today you’ll venture outdoors the talking on this fast-paced hike. Bring ponds. Today you’ll venture outdoors to to learn about the ecology of Oakland water and comfortable shoes / sneakers. learn about the ecology of the upper Alley Lake, followed by hot cocoa and coffee Nature Story Time / Fort Totten Park ponds, followed by hot cocoa and coffee indoors. Free of charge. To register, call indoors. Free of charge. To register, call 718.229.4000. 11 a.m. / Meet at Visitors Center, Ordnance and Lee Road Bring you and 718.229.4000. Winter Owl Prowl / Alley Pond Park your toddler to our new visitors center Be a History Detective / Fort Totten 1 p.m. 2 p.m. / APPAC Join the Rangers as we to enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, and fun / Fort Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance introduce you to our resident great horned stories about Nature. and Lee Road Join the Rangers for a owls who nest in the dark woods of Alley guided tour of historic Fort Totten. Explore Pond Park. Along the way we’ll point Sunday, March 15 the nineteenth century fortress that helped out all the creatures that make up the St. Patrick’s Plant Walk / Fort Totten Park protect New York City’s harbor from interesting food web. Binoculars provided. 11a.m. / Meet at Fort Totten Visitors possible naval attack and learn about the Center, Ordnance and Lee Road Venture history of Willet’s Point. Chceck out our Sunday, March 1 into the deep woods of Alley Pond Park as new life-size replica Rodman Cannon. A Century of Building / Fort Totten Park we observe early spring herbs and possibly 1 p.m. / Fort Totten Visitors Center Street, a leprechaun! Sunday, March 29 Ordnance and Lee Road Travel back a Tree ID / Fort Totten 11 a.m. / Meet at century or more and explore examples Owl Prowl / Alley Pond Park 3 p.m. / APPAC Visitors Center, Ordnance and Lee Road of Colonial Revival architecture found on Take a closer look at trees as we emerge this former military base. We’ll identify Although owls are active from the winter and learn how to tell them the buildings and point out their unique apart. architectural features. at night, they leave Return of the Plover / Rockaway Beach signs of their 12 p.m. / Meet at B 44 Street & Saturday, March 7 whereabouts Fort Totten Winter Tree ID / Fort Totten Boardwalk Now that winter is over, this that can be tiny endangered bird returns to our shores. 11 a.m. / Meet at Fort Totten Visitors seen during Center, Ordnance and Lee Road Take a the day. Whoo Be a History Detective / Fort Totten 1 p.m. closer look at trees in the winter with the knows what / Fort Totten Visitors Center, Ordnance Rangers and learn how to tell them apart. we’ll find? and Lee Road Join the Rangers for a Denizens of the Dark / Forest Park 5 p.m. guided tour of historic Fort Totten. Explore / FPVC See January 17 listing. Saturday, March 21 the nineteenth century fortress that helped The Bones of Baisley / Baisley Pond Park protect New York City’s harbor from Sunday, March 8 12 p.m. / Meet at Sutphin Playground possible naval attack and learn about the (Sutphin Blvd. & 125 Avenue) Did you history of Willet’s Point. Check out our life- Duck, Duck, Goose / Flushing Meadows size replica Rodman Cannon. Corona Park 10 a.m. / Meet at Mauro know that over 150 years ago, city workers Playground (Park Drive East & 73 Terrace) found the remains of a Mastodon while See January 10 listing. dredging Baisley Pond? Learn about this famous discovery of a pre-historic relative of the elephant. URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers WINTER 2009 13

Enjoy some serious park-to-park treks, edible insects, winter birding, historic house tours, and we think you’ll agree that winter is awesome on the Island. Staten Island Saturday, January 3 Saturday, January 31 KIDS’ WEEK February 16-20 Early Birding / 9 a.m. Native American Pathways / Conference / BHNC Nature Knowledge Hike / High House Park 1 p.m. / Meet by visitors Kids’ Week in the Forest! / Blue Heron Rock Park 1 p.m. / HRRS Take a walk center (Hylan Blvd and Satterlee Street) Park 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. – 3 through the wild and discover a variety of Explore the park to discover a variety of p.m. /BHNC Spend mid-winter break winter wonders. Dress for the weather. objects used by the Native Americans. with the Urban Park Rangers exploring How did they survive the winter? the forest at Blue Heron Park. Nature walks, crafts, team-building activities, Sunday, January 4 performances, and more. Morning and Forest Ecology / 1 p.m. / Sunday, February 1 afternoon activities for all each day. Meet by comfort station, 1150 Clove Road Tribute to Rodents / Blue Heron Park The winter woods may look lifeless, but 1 p.m. / BHNC Meet some of on today’s walk we’ll see just how much Punxsutawney Phil’s cousins as we pay Saturday, February 21 activity goes on behind the scenes. tribute to our local rodents. Animal Tracks / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Try your hand at animal Saturday, January 10 Saturday, February 7 identifications by looking at the footprints, Nature Photography / Blue Heron Park Nature Photography / Blue Heron Park scat, and other item left behind. 9 a.m. / BHNC We’ll look for the secret 9 a.m. / BHNC See January 12 listing. corners of the park to photograph. Bring Sunday, February 22 Maps and More / your camera! Edible Insects / Greenbelt Nature Center 1 p.m. / Meet by comfort station, Eton / 1 p.m. Challenge your taste buds by Animal Autographs / Conference House Place off Richmond Avenue The forest sampling a chocolate chip cricket cookie. Park 1 p.m. / Meet at visitors center depends on the squirrels and the squirrels For more information, call 718.967.3542. (Hylan Blvd. and Satterlee Road) Animals depend on the forest. Find out why on this leave behind a variety of different signs like hike. feathers, prints, and scat. Join the Rangers Saturday, February 28 to find which animals have left their mark Sunday, February 8 Beach Ecology / Midland Beach Park 1 p.m. / Meet on boardwalk at Sand Lane on nature. Valentine’s Day Eco-crafts / Blue Heron and Father Capodanno Blvd. Winter is a Park 1 p.m. / BHNC Let your creativity wonderful time to view marine life. Find Sunday, January 11 flow and make a heart-felt craft using the treasures of the beach with a variety of Groovy Glaciers / High Rock Park 1 p.m. natural materials. All ages welcome. oysters, clams, mussels, and more. Dress / HRRS Explore the remains of what the for the weather. Wisconsin glacier left behind on Staten Saturday, February 14 Island. Dress for the weather. Park to Park: Heyerdahl Hill / High Rock Sunday, March 1 Park 1 p.m. / HRRS Join the Rangers on a Birding / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / BHNC Saturday, January 17 journey on the Greenbelt’s Red Trail. You’ll Rip Van Beetle / Clove Lakes Park 1 p.m. see a variety of winter birds, and we’ll / Meet in front of comfort station, 1150 check out the ponds as well. Wear hiking Simply Recycling / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. Clove Road Even in the middle of winter boots. Bring a snack and water. Moderate / BHNC We’ll discuss how recycling works there are bugs alive and well. Discover to difficult terrain. and provided a number of ideas to help how these small creatures make it through you reduce and reuse. the winter. Sunday, February 15 Birding / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / BHNC Saturday, March 7 Sunday, January 18 Park to Park: Priory Pond / High Rock Park 11 a.m. / HRRS Start on the Blue Trail to Birding / High Rock Park 9 a.m. / HRRS History Club: American Revolution / the Joseph Holzka Overlook, where we’ll 1 p.m. / Meet by see Sandy Hook, New Jersey, and New Winter Survival / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. visitors center (Hylan Blvd. and Satterlee York Harbor. Afterwards, we’ll continue / BHNC Learn to build a shelter, find food Street) In a last ditch effort for peace, to Priory Pond. Don’t forget to bring your and water, and stay warm during winter Benjamin Franklin, Edward Rutledge, camera and please dress for the weather. hiking. and John Adams met at the Conference House to negotiate peace, but failed. Join Saturday, January 24 the Rangers as we delve deeper into the Sunday, March 8 Birding / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / BHNC Park to Park: Moses Mountain / High American Revolution. Rock Park 1 p.m. / HRRS Climb Moses Mountain and you’ll not only learn the history of the hill, but also see a spectacular view from the top. Bring your camera and dress for the weather. Sunday, January 25 Poet-tree / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / BHNC Bring your creativity and imagination as we take a leisurely stroll to take in nature. We’ll write as we walk. History Club: Into the City / Staten Island Ferry 10:45 a.m. / Meet in ferry terminal In 1898, greater New York City was consolidated. Hop on the 1 p.m. ferry with us, as we take you back to a time before the five boroughs joined forces to become one. Saturday, January 31 Birding / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / BHNC 14 Outdoors in in NewNew YorkYork CityCity www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS m mv m mvm vm mv m Staten Island Sunday, March 8 cont’d Sunday, March 15 Saturday, March 28 Nature Photography / Blue Heron Park / Alice Austen Park Birding / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / BHNC 1 p.m. / BHNC Use your camera to 1 p.m. / Meet at Hylan Blvd. and capture wildlife! Join the Rangers to Edgewater Street Celebrate Alice Austen’s Nature’s Fakers / discover the secret places of Blue Heron birthday and discover the important 1 p.m. / Meet by Ramona Avenue and Park. role she played on Staten Island and the Lenevar Avenue Nature is always trying to memories she left behind. fool us—the Rangers will point out some Saturday, March 14 of Mother Nature’s warning signs and Maps and More / Clove Lakes Park 1 p.m. Saturday, March 21 hidden items. / Meet by comfort station, 1150 Clove Bunny Bonanza / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. Road Ever get lost? We’ll teach you how to / BHNC Meet Smokey and Carmella, Sunday, March 29 read a map and use a compass. Materials the Blue Heron Bunnies. Discover why History Club: Richmond Turnpike / provided. they’re unique, the role they play in the Willowbrook Park 1 p.m. / Meet by ecosystem, and make a craft. comfort station Eton Place off Richmond Sunday, March 15 Avenue Victory Boulevard was Staten Poet-tree / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / Sunday, March 22 Island’s first throughway. Pay tribute to BHNC See January 25 listing. Eco-crafts / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / this wonderful street as we explore its full BHNC Join the Rangers to make a craft history. entirely out of what you can find outside. All supplies provided.

Junior Ranger Day Camp Summer 2009 (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 and educational activities & games, immersed in a natural park setting. A summer full of fun! Located in Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Bronx. Monday through Friday, 9 am - 4:30 pm. Extended hours: 8:30 am - 5:30 pm.

Teamwork Days Teambuilding Challenge activities, games, and a camp-wide Ranger Relay. Nature Days The Natural Classroom explorations including: botany, ecology, and entomology. Adventure Days Outdoor Recreation including: fishing, canoeing, and orienteering. Conservation Days Make your mark on the park! Restore trails and build habitats for wildlife. Jr. Ranger Olympics Activities to bring the week together with games and prizes. Campouts Sleep under the stars. A one-night special option.

For more information visit our website: City of New York City of New York www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers Parks & Recreation Parks & Recreation Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor Urban Park Rangers Adrian Benepe, Commissioner URBAN PARK RANGERS www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 15 NYC Audubon / American Littoral Society Field Trip

Saturday, April 25, Spring Bird

Migration at The American Littoral Society gets its The Northeast Chapter, with headquarters in Meet at 10am at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife name from the Latin litus meaning beach Broad Channel, NY, is comprised of members Refuge visitor center for an easy hike or coastal. The society is an environmental in New York, the New England states, and around the ponds & gardens. Come see the organization concerned about issues that Canada. Don Riepe, Chapter Director, is a warblers, tanagers, egrets, herons and other aff ect the littoral zone: that area on the beach noted wildlife photographer and he is also the beautiful migrants. Leader: Don Riepe. between low and high tide. The American Jamaica Bay Guardian, an American Littoral Call 718.318.9344 to reserve and for more Littoral Society is a national, nonprofi t, public- Society program funded by a Jamaica Bay information. Limit 25. Partnership with interest organization comprised of over 6,000 wetlands violation settlement imposed by the Gateway NRA and the American Littoral professional and amateur naturalists, with New York State Department of Environmental Society. headquarters in Sandy Hook, New Jersey. Conservation.

In June, the New York City Department sport, age group, zip code or borough for The web site also features fi tness tips from of Parks & Recreation launched all sports or fi tness opportunities. Program the American College of Sports Medicine, BeFitNYC, a new online search engine information from organizations including a newsletter and the chance for users that allows visitors to fi nd recreational and New York City Parks & Recreation, to provide Parks with feedback about accessible activities in their neighborhood, the Alliance, the Randall’s their experiences with Parks programs, from yoga to little leagues to kayaking. Island Sports Foundation, the National playgrounds and recreation centers. This new tool can narrow searches by Parks Service and more are off ered Visit www.nyc.gov/parks to check it out! through the site.

New York City Department of Parks & Recreation & Parks of Department City York New

call 866.692.4295 (select Option 3) Option (select 866.692.4295 call

www.nycgovparks.org/rangers/contact or or www.nycgovparks.org/rangers/contact

by e-mail or postal mail, visit mail, postal or e-mail by

To receive this publication this receive To

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PRE-SORTED STD. PRE-SORTED THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE OUTDOOR OF NEWSPAPER FREE THE in New York City York in New in New York City York in New New York City OUTDOORS in New York City York OUTDOORS in New of the is a publication Rangers, Urban Park a division of the York City of New & Recreation Parks Visit our website at www.nyc.gov/parks/rangers at our website Visit Winter Jam NYC Outdoors Outdoors Saturday, February 7th, 12-4pm Park (Houston and FDR Drive) FREE and open to the public Activities will include: 20’ tall Sledding Flume, Pro Snowboarding exhibition, cross country skiing and snowshoeing (weather permitting), sleigh rides, ice climbing wall, live entertainment, and the Pride of New York Warming Hut Winter Market.

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