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Home , Baisley Pond Park, Gerritsen Creek, McGolrick Park, Thomas Jefferson Park

Outdoors Outdoors THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE JULY / AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2010 iinn NNewew YYorkork CCityity

Includes CALENDAR OF URBAN PARK RANGER FREE PROGRAMS 2 CITY OF PARKS & RECREATION nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

Message from: Kevin Jeffrey, Deputy Commissioner for Public Programs

As we look forward to the warm I remember, too, that at the end of a day spent this way we both felt days of summer, I wanted to deeply satisfi ed, as if we had accomplished something marvelous or had share with you an exciting, discovered something special and secret — all on our own — about life upcoming Parks initiative and nature, and we would go to sleep in anticipation of the next day’s called “Wild Playgrounds” that adventure. will reconnect ’s The signifi cance of this kind of self-directed exploration and discovery children with nature. is well understood today. Research in the fi eld of child development Recently published work documents the benefi ts -- decreased incidence of obesity, improved has highlighted the tragic concentration, better functioning immune systems, increased realization that today’s children motivation and self-esteem, and decreased juvenile crime. Children have few opportunities to more readily achieve this growth in natural environments with limited interact with the natural adult orchestration. It is this concept that forms the core of Parks’ “Wild environment. Playgrounds” initiative. So many of us can recall In parks selected for their abundant natural areas, “Wild Playgrounds’“ childhood time spent happily environmental playworkers will facilitate play that encourages children making mud pies, building to touch, move, observe and interact with the elements of the outdoors dams, poking under rocks with sticks, digging up nightcrawlers, or that surround them — trees, grass, soil, insects, plants, and water. Using spying on an ant colony as its inhabitants went about their business. simple tools and the materials nature provides, children will manipulate and explore the outdoors as they please. I still remember the sense of adventure that always accompanied my early activities in the outdoors. Even something as ordinary as our own Our journey of discovery will pilot this summer at fi ve city parks — backyard became a place to observe, discover, and experiment on hot in , in , Marine Park summer days, as my brother and I explored the mysteries of our “moat” – in , in , Pelican Playground at a muddy ditch we dug out with our hands and fi lled from a leaky garden in ; and at Frank M. Charles Memorial Park in hose. At the whim of our imaginations this small canal was transformed Queens, part of the National Parks system. into the perimeter defense of a medieval castle. It included a mounting Dates and times for “Wild Playgrounds” are listed on page 15 of this platform for opposing armies of plastic soldiers, a spawning ground and newsletter. sanctuary for a bewildering variety of plant and insect life, or— when we chose to excavate and dam it — a marvel of hydro-engineering.

received from throughout the country via the Parks website. Outdoor News Afterschool students also participated by submitting their ideas to INTRODUCING PEARL THE SQUIRREL! the search. PARK’S OFFICIAL MASCOT On Tuesday, March 17, 2009, a group of students from the Tony On Saturday, April 17, 2010, Park’s Commissioner Adrian Benepe Dapolito Recreation Center afterschool program helped the Parks introduced the newest member of New York’s Greenest, Pearl the Department choose their mascot. The afterschool students viewed Squirrel, the fi rst offi cial mascot of the Parks Department, at the the top mascot submissions and give their suggestions directly third annual Street Games in Thomas Jeff erson Park. to Commissioner Benepe, who chaired a panel to make the fi nal decision. The Afterschool students chose Pearl as their “I am very delighted to #1 pick. introduce my good friend and brand new Parkie, Adam Koford, Pearl’s creator, is an improbably prolifi c Pearl the Squirrel,” said cartoonist who has been involved in several projects, including Commissioner Benepe. “700 Hoboes” and “Conan vs. Bear.” He has a webcomic entitled “Pearl will help Parks the Laugh-Out-Loud Cats, a collection of which is available from spread the word to New Abrams ComicArts.; Adam works for Disney Interactive in Salt Lake Yorkers — especially the City, Utah and is a regular contributor to Drawn.ca. kids — about the many To learn more about Pearl, visit her on the Parks website at opportunities we off er to www.nyc.gov/parks keyword: Mascot. get fi t, dig in and go green. I am sure that she will make © THE FREE NEWSPAPER OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE a great addition too ourour tree-loving Parkss famfamily.”ilyly.” Pearl was born inn the Van Cortlandt Parkark Nature Preserve. She iss an Urban Park Ranger byy OutdoorsOutdoors day, and enjoys riding herr iininn NewNNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity bike throughout the city Parks, bird-watching and Planning Sarah Aucoin, Director volunteering in her spare ProgramsP Bonnie McGuire, Deputy Director time. OperationsOperaatio Richard Simon, Deputy Director The search for a Parks Programs Marta Arroyo, Program Manager mascot began in December, GraphicGraphic DesignDesign Elizabeth Green, Graphic Artist 2008. From astronauts to owls, Researchch Shalini Beath, Grants Manager geese to grass, more than 150 submissions were Urban Park Rangers • 1234 Fifth Avenue • New York City 10029 URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 3 Family Camping in New York City Parks By Howard Kreft, Urban Park Ranger Sergeant refreshed with a feeling of accomplishment. An accomplishment that proves that you do not need air conditioning, television, and a The mission of the Urban Park Rangers is to connect New Yorkers midnight snack to survive. to the natural world. One of the most eff ective and least expensive ways to experience the natural world is on an overnight camping While sleeping in the great outdoors is an amazing feeling, it is not program. Today, people camp everywhere from Yosemite National the only goal of camping. Another is to enjoy the wildlife that comes Park in eastern California to the Adirondacks in upstate New York. out while humans are typically sleeping. Some of the nocturnal While many people can say they have camped in those places, only animals people may encounter while camping in New York City are a handful can say they have camped in , or Prospect owls, raccoons, bats, fl ying squirrels, night jars, skunks, opossums, Park, which you can only do on an Urban Park Ranger Family moles, voles, and numerous insects that become active as the moon Camping Program. Camping with the whole family is a bonding rises. A night hike is included in your Family Camping experience. experience you will remember for years to come. While backcountry camping allows for total solitude, camping with There are two basic ways to go camping. One way is to get a the Urban Park Rangers allows for a combination of socializing and backcountry permit, then hike into the backwoods of a national or solitude. If you get a chance to camp with the Rangers, you will be state park, set up a campsite without any modern amenities and provided with a BBQ dinner including good ole’ fashioned s’mores. lay your head down. Another way is to get a permit and stay in a So grab your sleeping bag and come on out to a New York City campsite not far from your car. This is called car camping. Family park and experience something you will never forget—overnight camping with the Urban Park Rangers is a combination of these two camping with the Urban Park Rangers! types of camping. But however you camp, the goal is the same— to lay down in a sleeping bag, inches from the earth, and listen to For more information or to register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ the sounds of nature as you drift away into sleep and to awaken register. BRONX Date Time Location Registration Dates 6/25/10 6 p.m. Orchard Beach Nature Center 6/16/10 7/16/10 6 p.m. Van Cortlandt Nature Center 7/7/10 7/30/10 6 p.m. Orchard Beach Nature Center 7/21/10 8/13/10 6 p.m. Van Cortlandt Nature Center 8/4/10 8/27/10 6 p.m. Orchard Beach Nature Center 8/18/10 9/10/10 6 p.m. Van Cortlandt Nature Center 9/1/10 BROOKLYN Date Time Location Registrationgistration Dates 7/2/10 6 p.m. Salt Marsh Nature Center 6/23/10 7/16/10 6 p.m. Owl’s Head Park 7/7/10// 8/6/10 6 p.m. 7/28/10 8/20/10 6 p.m. Salt Marsh Nature Centerer 8/11/108//// 9/3/10 6 p.m. Salt Marsh Nature Centernter 8/25/108/25 9/17/10 6 p.m. 9/8/109/8/// MANHATTAN Date Time Location RegistrationRegi ration DatesDa 6/5/10 6 p.m. Central Park 5/26/105/26/1 6/19/10 6 p.m. Inwood Hill Natureature Centerter 6/9/10// 7/3/10 6 p.m. Central Park 6/23/1010 7/31/10 6 p.m. Inwood Hill Nature Centerenter 7/21/107/21/////10 8/7/10 6 p.m. Central Park 7/28/1077/28 9/25/10 6 p.m. Inwood Hill Nature Center 9/15/10// QUEENS Date Time Location RegistrationRRegistegigistrationt Dates 6/5/10 6 p.m. Alley Pond Parkrk Adventure CenterCenntenter 5/26/10 7/10/10 6 p.m. Cunningham Parkark 6/30/10// 7/17/10 6 p.m. Adventure CenterCentterr 7/7/10 7/31/10 6 p.m. Cunningham Parkk 7/21/107// 1//10 8/7/10 6 p.m. Alley Pond Park Adventuredventure Center 7/28/10228// 9/18/10 6 p.m. Park 9/8/109/8/// STATEN ISLAND Date Time Location Registration Dates 5/22/10 7 p.m. Willow Brook Park 5/12/10 6/5/10 7 p.m. Blue Heron Nature Center 5/26/10// 2010 Family Camping Dates Dates Camping 2010 Family 6/18/10 7 p.m. Wolfe’s Pond Park 6/9/10 7/16/10 7 p.m. Willow Brook Park 7/7/10 7/30/10 7 p.m. Blue Heron Nature Center 7/21/10 8/20/10 7 p.m. Wolfe’s Pond Park 8/11/10 4 CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 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

Arts and Culture Fishing Nature Exploration See, hear, and participate in crafts, Catch a fish! Freshwater and Learn about plants, wildlife, or stars poetry, writing, dance, acting, saltwater fishing available. in the sky. Bring binoculars if you readings, photography and open Equipment provided, catch and have them, and a flashlight for microphone nights in our beautiful release only. The NYSDEC requires a evening programs. parks and nature centers. fishing license for everyone 16 years of age and older. To find out more Special Events Birding information on how to obtain a fishing license visit dec.ny.gov/ Our Special Events celebrate nature Learn everything you need to know permits/6091.html. and are great fun for all ages! about birds. Programs highlight different bird types, special park areas and seasonal highlights. Hiking & Biking Survival & Orienteering Adventure and leisure hikes and bike Learn to survive in the wild. From Camping rides. Nature walks, historic tours, using a map and compass to knot- and greenbelt rides. Enjoy a night sleeping under the tying and shelter-building, the stars in New York City. Space Rangers have workshops to help is limited! Programs require History you safely enjoy your outdoors RESERVATIONS. Visit nyc.gov/ Learn about the important role experiences. parks/rangers/reservations for more of our parkland in New York City information. history and hear the fantastic stories MillionTreesNYC the Urban Park Rangers have to tell. A citywide initiative to plant and Canoeing care for one million new trees in Learn to canoe and explore New Kids Activities New York City by 2017. York City’s waterways. First-come, Join us for a variety of children- first-served, unless otherwise noted. centered activities. Nature crafts, Adventure Course Bring a hat, water, sunscreen, and a sing-a-longs, play dates, storytime, snack. Ages 8 and up. Be prepared and more! Check for special out of The Alley Pond Park Adventure to get wet. school and vacation programs. Course features ropes course Visit our Parkids NYC website at activities that promote team- www.nyc.gov/parks/kids/ to find building and problem–solving skills. fun online kids activities. Free public programs on Sundays through November. Visit nyc. gov/adventurecourse for more information. 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. Orchard Beach 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. Alley Pond Park Adventure Center (APPAC): & Broadway. 718.548.0912 Alley Pond Park. Enter at Winchester Blvd., under the Grand Central Parkway. 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 BROOKLYN Blue Heron Nature Center (BHNC): Blue Heron Salt Marsh Nature Center (SMNC): Marine Park. Park. 222 Poillon Avenue, between Amboy Road East 33rd St. & . 718.421.2021 & Hylan Boulevard. 718.967.3542 Fort Greene Visitor Center (FGVC): Fort Greene High Rock Ranger Station (HRRS): High Rock Park. Enter the park at Myrtle Avenue and Park. Park in the lot at the end of Nevada Washington Park. 718.722.3218 Avenue, off Rockland Ave., and follow signs. 718.667.6042. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers SUMMER 2010 5 From the cool deep woods of the John Muir Trail in Van Cortlandt Park to the ocean breeze on the Kazimiroff Trail in Pelham Bay Park, Bronx Parks off er some of the best hiking in New York City. Find one below and TAKE A HIKE! SATURDAY, JULY 3 SUNDAY, JULY 11 SUNDAY, JULY 18 continued Van Cortlandt Bird Club: Silhouette Nature Bingo / Van Cortlandt Park 2 p.m. / Spotting / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Visit the nature center and play this VCNC With the sun from behind, just a fun and informative game. Prizes! Children bird’s outline gives clues to its identity. 12 and under. Red, White and Bluegill Fish Catch / SATURDAY, JULY 24 2 p.m. / CNC Come and fi sh with simple rods in Indian Lake, Bird Club: Food Preferences / Van while learning all about our underwater Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Who eats neighbors. Bring your own rod or borrow what and why depends largely on their one from the nature center. serving utensil — their beak! Basic Canoeing / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / Golf House, Van Cortlandt South and Major Deegan Expressway See July 3 Buggin’ Out / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. listing. First-come fi rst-served. Ages 8+. / VCNC Bug out as you learn all about the creepy crawlers living in Van Cortlandt Park Seashore Safari / Pelham Bay Park 2 p.m. and make your own buggy craft. Children / OBNC Come enjoy the mid-day warmth 12 and under. and explore the “wild” side of Orchard Beach. We will search for denizens of the Dragons and Damsels/ Crotona Park coast using our seine nets to bring them in. 12 p.m. / CNC No, we are not talking about knights in shining armor, but SUNDAY, JULY 25 dragonfl ies and damselfl ies, little insects Life in the Lake / Van Cortlandt Lake with the tenacity of dragons and the 11 a.m. / VCNC See July 17 listing. Basic Canoeing / Van Cortlandt Park beauty of the ages. These spirited insect 11 a.m. / Golf House, Van Cortlandt south jewels can be found in and above Indian Living Log / Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / and Major Deegan Expressway Learn the Lake. Why do we love them? PBRS Ever wonder why we leave fallen basic of canoeing so you can sign up for logs on the forest fl oor? We’ll turn over a one of our advanced programs later in the Orchard Beach History / Pelham Bay few and fi nd out! summer. Last session begins at 1:15 p.m. Park 2 p.m. / OBNC Come learn about Bring water, sun block and a snack. First- the history of Orchard Beach and the Salt Water Fishing/ come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. surrounding islands, from Native American 2 p.m. / Barretto Street and Tiffany inhabitants to the impacts of . Avenue entrance Come fi sh with us at this Into the Depths / Pelham Bay Park 2 p.m. beautiful park with scenic views of the East / OBNC Pull on some waders and use FRIDAY, JULY 16 River and Manhattan. Equipment will be seining nets to fi nd out who’s living below provided. First-come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. the surface of the water at Orchard Beach. Family Camping / Van Cortlandt Park 6 p.m. / VCNC Pitch a tent, build a SUNDAY, JULY 4 campfi re, and go on a night hike to meet FRIDAY, JULY 30 the nocturnal residents of Van Cortlandt Family Camping /Pelham Bay Park 6 p.m. Washington’s Troops on the Hill / Van Park. Bring a fl ashlight and sleeping bag. / OBNC Pitch a tent, build a campfi re, Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / VCNC In tribute Space is limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/ and go on a night hike to meet the to our nation, we’ll explore the park as we parks/rangers/register on July 7. nocturnal residents of Pelham Bay Park. discuss the Bronx’ role in the Revolution. Bring a fl ashlight and sleeping bag. Space How Native Americans Brought Color SATURDAY, JULY 17 is limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/ to their World / Crotona Park 2 p.m. / Van Cortlandt Bird Club: Sighting by rangers/register on July 21. CNC Native Americans colored blankets, Sound / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC wooden implements and their skin with You may not see them at fi rst but sounds SATURDAY, JULY 31 vivid homemade dyes. We will recreate can help you locate them. Van Cortlandt Bird Club: Fledgling Time / these dyes using materials from nature. Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Search Galls Galore! / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. Bring a white tee shirt or other item to dye. for examples of babysitting or teachable / VCNC In nature, not everything is as it moments with immature birds. SATURDAY, JULY 10 appears to be. Learn about the weird and wacky places that some insects call home. Ancient Remedies/ Crotona Park 11 a.m. Van Cortlandt Bird Club: Territoriality / / CNC Learn about some herbal remedies, Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC How Life in Lake / Crotona Park 1 p.m. / CNC as we walk through Crotona Park to look much space does a bird need? This is an Dragonfl ies scour the surface in search for the medicinal plants and trees that grow important idea in conserving forests. of food, while fi sh patrol the underwater here. world. Insects, turtles, frogs and ducks are Canoeing the Lagoon/ Pelham Bay Park just some of the animals we will see. Fishing / Van Cortlandt Park 11 a.m. / 11 a.m. / Canoe and Kayak Launch, VCNC Perch, bass and catfi sh are just northwest corner of Orchard Beach SUNDAY, JULY 18 some of the residents you might catch. parking lot Paddle through the sparkling Bring water, snack and patience. Equipment blue waters and green marsh grasses of the Forever Wild! Twin Island Hike/ Pelham provided. First-come, fi rst-served. Orchard Beach Lagoon. Space is limited. Bay Park 10 a.m. / OBNC From the rocky To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ shore to the forest, this island has it all. See register on June 30. Ages 8+. it for yourself! Midsummer Flora / Van Cortlandt Park River Views/ Riverdale Park 11 a.m. / 232 1 p.m. / VCNC Check on fl owers that Street on South Bound service road of the thrive in the summer swelter. Henry Hudson Parkway Enjoy the dramatic views of the Palisades and One in a Million Tree-mendous Walk from this quaint park in the Bronx. / Crotona Park 2 p.m. / CNC Learn to identify different types of trees, view Canoeing the Lake/ Crotona Park 12 p.m. some of NYC’s great trees, and discover / CNC Learn the basic of canoeing so the important role trees play in our you can sign up for one of our advanced environment. programs later in the summer. Bring water, sun block and a snack. First come, fi rst- served. Ages 8+. 6 OOutdoorsutdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SUNDAY, AUGUST 1 SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Bird Club: Avian Photography / Van Late Summer Wildfl owers/ Van Cortlandt Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Capture the Park 11 a.m. / VCNC Van Cortlandt Park moments that fl y by. It ain’t easy. Bring a has burst into a fl ame of colors with a camera. brilliant cloak of yellow goldenrods and a crown of white and purple asters. Turtle Talk / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. / VCNC Snapping, slider, and painted turtles SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 all live in Van Cortlandt Lake. Learn about their habitat, habits, and the best places to spot them. SUNDAY, AUGUST 22 Canoeing the Lagoon/ Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. / Canoe and Kayak Launch, Summer Wildfl owers/ Pelham Bay Park northwest corner of Orchard Beach 11 a.m. / OBNC Some plants like it hot parking lot See July 10 listing. Space is and thrive in New York City’s blistering limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/ summer. Learn about these plants that live rangers/register on August 11. Ages 8+. in the coastal islands of Pelham Bay Park. Colonial Games/ Van Cortlandt Park FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 11 a.m. / VCNC Colonial children played Family Camping /Pelham Bay Park 6 p.m. games too–just different ones! Find out / OBNC See July 30 listing. Space is Canoe up the Hutch/ Pelham Bay Park what they were, and play some of them. limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/ 1 p.m. / PBRS Adventure through the rangers/register on August 18. sparkling blue water and green marsh grass Canoeing the Lake/ Crotona Park 12 p.m. of the Thomas Pell Sanctuary. Experienced / CNC See July 18 listing. First- come fi rst- SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 canoeists only. Space is limited. To register, served. Ages 8+. visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register on Van Cortlandt Bird Club: Handling the September 1. Heat / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 How do birds stay warm in the winter and Van Cortlandt Bird Club: Tell-Tale Signs / cool in the summer? A few nifty tricks. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Tiny Fall Migration / Van Cortlandt Park 1 p.m. holes in a tree or purple droppings on the John Kieran Trail Hike/ Van Cortlandt Park /VCNC Sharpen up those birding skills on ground can tell us what a bird recently did 11 a.m. / VCNC Enjoy the scenery and a birding walk designed to spot the colorful there. Get good sleuthing pointers here. natural beauty of Van Cortlandt Park and and elusive warblers. Bring your own learn about New York City’s fi rst water binoculars if you have them. Salt Water Fishing/ Barretto Point Park supply. 11 a.m. / Barretto Street and Tiffany SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Avenue entrance See July 25 listing. First- SUNDAY, AUGUST 29 come, fi rst-served. Equipment provided. A Salt Marsh Stroll / Pelham Bay Park Ages 8+. 11 a.m. / OBNC The plant life in the salt marsh is uniquely equipped to withstand SUNDAY, AUGUST 8 the harsh conditions. Learn about the various adaptations that help these plants Canoeing the Lagoon/ Pelham Bay Park survive. 11 a.m. / Canoe and Kayak Launch, northwest corner of Orchard Beach SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 parking lot See July 10 listing. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register on Birding along the Hudson/ Riverdale July 28. Ages 8+. Park 11 a.m. /232 Street on South Bound service road of the Henry Hudson Parkway Cass Gallagher Hike / Van Cortlandt Park Riverdale Park had the perfect blend of 11 a.m. / Mosholu Avenue and Broadway waterfront greenery, which is appealing Enjoy a hike though the North Woods to a variety of birds. Look for and listen to as we look for seasonal wildfl owers and The Great Bronx Bicycle Tour/ Orchard some of the birds that make Bronx parks visiting spring migrants. Beach 11 a.m. / OBNC Take a leisurely their home. Bring your own binoculars if bicycle ride from the Orchard Beach Nature you have them. FRIDAY, AUGUST 13 Center, to Van Cortlandt Park. Bring a Family Camping / Van Cortlandt Park helmet, sunblock, water, and of course SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 6 p.m. / VCNC See July 16 listing. Space your bike! Ancient Remedies/ Pelham Bay Park is limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/ 11 a.m. / PBRS See July 31 listing. rangers/register on August 4. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Bird Club / Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 VCNC Bring your own binoculars, as we Van Cortlandt Bird Club: Hummingbirds / search for the birds of Van Cortlandt park. Van Cortlandt Park 9 a.m. / VCNC Who beats its wings in a fi gure 8, so fast you SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 can’t even see them? Hint: You can’t even Migrating Monarchs / Pelham Bay Park count how many times it does this in one 1 p.m. / PBRS Monarch butterfl ies spend second! the summer months in our city parks, and How Native Americans Brought Color to as winter approaches they journey south to their World / Crotona Park 2 p.m. / CNC Mexico. See July 4 listing. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 SUNDAY, AUGUST 15 Family Camping / Van Cortlandt Park 6 Harbor Herons/ Pelham Bay Park 11 a.m. p.m. / VCNC See July 16 listing. Space is / OBNC Sound provides limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/ plentiful food for the elegant herons rangers/register on September 1. that nest in this area. Explore the islands of Pelham Bay and learn about these abundant birds. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers SUMMER 2010 7 Don’t know much about history? Join us for a tour in Brooklyn and step back in time to learn about colonial open hearth cooking, the , or nineteenth century Coney Island.

FRIDAY, JULY 2 SATURDAY, JULY 17 SATURDAY, JULY 31 CONTINUED Family Camping / Marine Park 6 p.m. / Tree Tour / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / Stargazing / Fort Greene Park 9 p.m. / SMNC Enjoy an evening of camping out FGVC Stroll through our beautiful park as FGVC Observe Mars, Venus, Saturn and under the stars in beautiful Marine Park. you learn about its wide variety of trees. other heavenly bodies with the Amateur The evening includes a cookout dinner, a Astronomers Association of New York and night hike, and a campfi re. Please bring the Urban Park Rangers. Rain or Cloud your sleeping bag, tents will be provided. date is August 7. Space is limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/ parks/rangers/register on June 23. SUNDAY, AUGUST 1 Journey through Time: Park Slope SATURDAY, JULY 3 Part I / Flatbush Avenue and Bergen Journey Through Time: Fort Greene / Street 11 a.m. / Northwest Corner This Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC This is the fi rst half of our exploration of edition of our popular walking tour will grand homes, brownstones, churches showcase the park and the surrounding and some interesting stories. Tour will neighborhood. We will be taking a peek last approximately 1 ½ hours, so wear inside the Prison Ship Martyrs Monument. comfortable shoes and bring water. Wear comfortable shoes; the tour will last approximately 1 ½ hours. Amazing Arches and Bridges / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / Audubon Center, East Drive Ponderous Ponds / Prospect Park 11 a.m. Canoe the Creek / Marine Park 11 a.m., and Lincoln Road Discover the beauty of /Audubon Center, East Drive and Lincoln 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. / SMNC See July 10 Prospect Park’s unique arches and bridges. Road Observe the diversity of pond life listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. Discover the names and history of these and fi nd out how all living organisms features that play a large role in Olmstead depend on each other. SUNDAY, JULY 18 and Vaux’s design. Children’s Gardening Workshop / Fort SUNDAY, JULY 4 Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Encourage Canoe the Creek / Marine Park 11 a.m., your little one’s green thumb by helping 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. / SMNC See July 10 Canoe the Lullwater / Prospect Park listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. / Audubon the Rangers in the garden. Kids will learn all about native plants while having fun Center, East Drive and Lincoln Road FRIDAY, AUGUST 6 Enjoy a day of canoeing on the beautiful digging in the dirt. Ages 3+. Family Camping / Fort Greene Park 6 p.m. Lullwater to The Lake and back. Enjoy Animal Tracking / Marine Park 1 p.m. / creekside views of wading birds and / SMNC Enjoy an evening of camping out SMNC Be an animal detective as we follow under the stars in beautiful and historic basking turtles. First-come, fi rst-served. the tracks of the animals that live in Marine Ages 8+. Fort Greene Park. The evening includes Park. a cookout dinner, a night hike, and a Eco Sandcastle Contest /Coney Island campfi re. Please bring your sleeping bag, 1 p.m. / West 19 Street Boardwalk Learn SATURDAY, JULY 24 tents will be provided. Space is limited. how to build a sandcastle by using only Teddy Bear Picnic / Fort Greene Park To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ recycled and natural materials. Prizes 11 a.m. / FGVC Have your child bring register July 28. awarded. their favorite toy animal to the park where they will listen to animal stories and facts. SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 SATURDAY, JULY 10 Canoe the Lullwater / Prospect Park Early Morning Birding / Marine Park Early Morning Birding / Marine Park 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. / Audubon 8 a.m. / SMNC 8 a.m. / SMNC Center, East Drive and Lincoln Road …And They Called It Macaroni! / Fort Pirate’s Treasure Hunt /Fort Greene Park See July 4 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Take a fresh 11 a.m. /FGVC Avast, ye mateys! Explore Ages 8+. pasta perspective of how British forces the park with a map and compass…there Children’s Hour / Marine Park 1 p.m. / routed America’s troops in the Battle of be treasure buried here! Geared for kids SMNC Bring the kids to the Salt Marsh Brooklyn. age 6 to 12; compasses will be provided. Nature Center for an afternoon of creative Tree-mendous Hike / Prospect Park Canoeing the Creek / Marine Park 11 a.m., nature crafts. All materials provided. Ages 11 a.m. / Audubon Center, East Drive 12 p.m., and 2 p.m. / Burnett Street and 12 and under. and Lincoln Road Learn to identify Avenue U Enjoy a day on different types of trees, view some of NYC’s as we canoe its sheltered waters in search SUNDAY, JULY 25 great trees and discover the important role of wading shorebirds, jumping fi sh, and Birding / Fort Greene Park 10 a.m. / FGVC trees play in our environment. remains of the old Gerritsen gristmill. First- Calling all bird enthusiasts! Whether it is come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. your fi rst time or you are an avid birder, SUNDAY, AUGUST 8 come log what birds are found in the park. Journey through Time: Coney Island / SUNDAY, JULY 11 Where in the World is Ranger Robin? / Coney Island Boardwalk 11 a.m. / Meet at Insect Insanity / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. Prospect Park 1 p.m. /Audubon Center, East the Parachute Jump Go back to the days / FGVC Discover the fascinating world of Dr. and Lincoln Road Ranger Robin has of the “Nickel Empire,” when fi ve cents insects as we explore our park. Followed by gotten lost in the park and needs our help! bought you subwayfare to the shore, a hot a buggy craft! Ages 3+. Come learn to use a compass and help us dog or a thrilling amusement park ride. Salamander Search / Prospect Park 1 p.m. fi nd the hidden clues that will lead us to her. Wildfl ower Discovery /Prospect Park / Picnic House, West Drive and Third 11 a.m. / Audubon Center, East Drive Street Did you know that New York State FRIDAY, JULY 30 and Lincoln Road Learn to identify these is the salamander capital of the World? Lawn Chair Theater: Finding Nemo / beautiful and important features of a Delve into their domain in Prospect Park. Marine Park 8 p.m. *adjusted to daylight / healthy grassland ecosystem. SMNC Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and FRIDAY, JULY 16 relax outdoors! Before settling down to an Creatures of the Night Hike / Marine Park 8 p.m. / SMNC Enjoy a night hike as we Family Camping / Owl’s Head Park 6 p.m. evening of Pixar magic, meet the creatures of Gerritsen Creek. go in search of bats, raccoons, opossums, / Park House at Colonial Road Enjoy an rabbits and night herons. evening of camping out under the stars in beautiful Owl’s Head Park. The evening SATURDAY, JULY 31 includes a cookout dinner, a night hike, Living Log / Prospect Park 11 a.m. / and a campfi re. Please bring your sleeping Picnic House, West Drive and Third Street bag, tents will be provided. Space is limited. Investigate what living things call a log a To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ home. register on July 7. 8 OOutdoorsutdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 New York City’s Wildlife / Fort Greene Park Journey Through Time: Fort Greene / Fort Fanning the Flames / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. /FGVC We are not talking about Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC See July 3 11 a.m. / FGVC Answer the call to witness New York City’s party scene, but the variety listing. some of the city’s biggest confl agrations of animals that call it home. Outdoor lecture and sample authentic fi rehouse chili! followed by a walk around the park. Salamander Search / Prospect Park 11 a.m. /Picnic House, West Drive and Third Street MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Birding by Boat / Prospect Park 12 p.m. / See July 11 listing. Audubon Center, East Drive and Lincoln Monday Night Lecture: The Piping Plover Road Explore the Lullwater by canoe as SUNDAY, AUGUST 29 / Marine Park 7 p.m. /SMNC The Urban we go in search of the birds that live along Park Rangers have worked long and hard Tree Tour / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / to preserve and protect the Piping Plover, the shore and among the trees on this FGVC See July 17 listing. Ranger guided bird outing. Space is limited. an endangered bird that nests in Rockaway To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ Beach. Learn what our work may mean to register on August 4. Ages 8+. Fishing /Kaiser Pier 1 p.m. / Neptune the future of the plover population. Avenue and West 33 Street Enjoy a day SUNDAY, AUGUST 15 of fi shing on in the FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 nearly renovated Kaiser Park. Poles and bait Family Camping / Prospect Park 6 p.m. Journey Through Time: Brooklyn Brews provided. / Bushwick 11 a.m. / Bushwick and / TBA Enjoy an evening of camping out under the stars in beautiful and historic Montrose Avenues We’re taking our FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 popular Brooklyn Brews on the road! View Prospect Park. The evening includes Brewers’ Row, once the home of many Family Camping / Marine Park 6 p.m. / a cookout dinner, a night hike, and a brewing companies and sample some SMNC See July 2 listing. Space is limited. campfi re. Please bring sleeping bag, of the most architecturally interesting To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ tents will be provided. Space is limited. buildings in Bushwick. register on August 25. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ register on September 8. Birding on the Hill /Prospect Park 11 a.m. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 / Prospect Park West and 16 Street Hike SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 to the top of Look Out Hill for a trip to a Spanning Time / 11 a.m. / Brooklyn bird watchers’ wonderland. Borough Hall Take a trip through time, Where in the World is Ranger Robin? / from what was Brooklyn’s City Hall, over Marine Park 1 p.m. / SMNC See July 25 the Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall, over the listing. Manhattan Bridge and back to present-day Brooklyn Borough Hall. Bring water, and FRIDAY, AUGUST 20 wear comfortable shoes—the tour will last approximately 2 hours. Family Camping / Marine Park 6 p.m. / SMNC See July 2 listing. Space is limited. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ register on August 11. Insect Insanity / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC See July 11 listing. SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 Where in the World is Ranger Robin? / Water Course Tour / Prospect Park 11 a.m. Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC See July /Picnic House, West Drive and Third Street 25 listing. Ever wonder where the water in prospect park comes from? Follow the course water Frogs! Turtles! And Snakes! Oh My! / takes as it traverses through the park. Prospect Park 11 a.m. /Picnic House, West Drive and Third Street Bring your hiking SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 boots and let’s look for all the reptiles and amphibians that Prospect Park has to offer. Volunteer Day / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Get your hands dirty as you help us SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 keep Fort Greene one of the most beautiful parks in the city. To RSVP large groups Shore Birding / Marine Park 11 a.m. / or to learn more about Fort Greene Park Aliens Among Us/ Fort Greene Park SMNC Come and see the unparalleled volunteers call 718.722.3218. 11 a.m. /FGVC Find out which plants bird diversity that can be found along the came from other lands and now call Fort shores of Gerritsen Creek. Children’s Hour / Marine Park 1 p.m. / Greene Park home. SMNC See July 24 listing. Journey Through Time: McCarren to Turtle Walk and Talk / Prospect Park McGolrick /McCarren Park 1 p.m. / SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 11 a.m. /Audubon Center, East Drive and Bedford and North 12 Street Traverse Lincoln Road Venture out into this shelled from McCarren Park to McGolrick Park and Criminals, Capers and Cops / Fort Greene reptile’s domain and learn about New discover their past, present and future. Park 11 a.m. / FGVC Delve into the city’s York’s various species of turtle. sordid past and hear about some famous FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 (and infamous) criminals and the crimes they almost got away with. SUNDAY, AUGUST 22 Lawn Chair Theater: Winged Migration / Bird Brained / Fort Greene Park 11 a.m. Marine Park 8 p.m. *adjusted to daylight Nuts About Squirrels / Marine Park 11 / FGVC Discover what birds call the park / SMNC Bring a lawn chair or a blanket a.m. / SMNC Discover the fascinating home and make your own fun, feathery and relax outdoors! Get your kids fl apping world of these furry little creatures craft. Ages 3+. for Winged Migration by doing some back patio bird watching before the movie. Fall Harvest Dances / Marine Park 2 p.m. / Canoe the Creek / Marine Park 11 a.m., SMNC Join the Brooklyn Dance Ensemble 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. / SMNC See July 10 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 in an outdoor performance celebrating the listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. shades and colors of the season. Joining Stargazing / Fort Greene Park 8 p.m. in the day will be a theatrical performance FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 / FGVC Observe Jupiter, Uranus and of Shakespearean monologues and Native other heavenly bodies with the Amateur American Blessings given by The Brooklyn Lawn Chair Theater: A Shark’s Tale / Astronomers Association of New York and Marine Park 8 p.m. *adjusted to daylight Association of the Performing Arts with the Urban Park Rangers. Rain or Cloud Roman “Redhawk” Perez. / SMNC Bring a lawn chair or a blanket Date is September 18. and relax outdoors! Gather around the touch tank before the movie and feel the spiny backs of Little Brown Skates-bottom dwelling shark relatives. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers SUMMER 2010 9

Eagles and Hawks and Osprey, oh my! Manhattan is a great place to spot birds of prey. Join us for a tour or lecture and learn more about these magnifi cent raptors.

SATURDAY, JULY 3 SUNDAY, JULY 11 SUNDAY, JULY 25 History Along the Hudson / Riverside Summer Nature Exploration: Series I / Adventure Hike / Inwood Hill Park 9 a.m. Park 11 a.m. / Pier I Take a mid-summer 11 a.m. / Margaret Corbin / IHNC Come explore the beauty of stroll next to the beautiful Hudson River Circle Discover the diverse wildlife and Inwood, and its wonderful wildlife, on this and learn about some of the important historic importance that are hidden all early morning hike through the hills of movements that took place along this path. around this beautiful park. Field guides will Inwood. We’ll wander from Pier I all the way down be provided, but bring a pair of binoculars to the Locomotion that rests in the park, if you would like. where we will unlock this historic relic for all to explore! The engine will be open until Raptor Rap / Saint Nicholas Park 12 p.m. 2 p.m. /133 and Saint Nicholas Avenue Explore the natural history, biology and ecology of birds of prey on this hawk walk through the park. Discover how raptors have inspired humans for thousands of years. SATURDAY, JULY 17 Family Fishing on the Hudson / Riverside Park 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. / Pier I at 70 Street and Hudson River Connect to life living within the Hudson River and discover the joys of fi shing. Equipment provided, but Canoe the Meer / Central Park 11 a.m. bring your own luck and enthusiasm. First- – 2 p.m. / near Lasker Pool come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. See July 10 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. Family Camping / Central Park 6 p.m. / Forts of Freedom / Central Park 1 p.m. / TBA A night of camping under the stars DDC Celebrate our Nation’s independence, SATURDAY, JULY 31 in Manhattan’s largest backyard! Enjoy share your own family history and discover Fun with Fish / Central Park 11 a.m. – planned activities and an exciting night the history of northern Central Park. 2 p.m. / Meet by Lasker Pool The fi shing hike! Bring a fl ashlight and a sleeping bag. We’ll visit Fort Fish, Nutter’s Battery, and is fi ne at the Harlem Meer. Enjoy catch and Space is limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/ Blockhouse #1 as we tell the stories of our release fi shing as well as arts and crafts. parks/rangers/register on June 23. forefathers. Equipment provided. SUNDAY, JULY 4 SUNDAY, JULY 18 Family Camping / Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. History in the Heights / Fort Tryon Park Bird Watch / Inwood Hill Park 8 a.m. / / IHNC A night of camping under the stars 11 a.m. / Margaret Corbin Circle Learn IHNC Enjoy a brisk walk in the park while in Manhattan’s largest backyard! Enjoy about the remarkable act of bravery that we use our binoculars to search for the planned activities and an exciting night Margaret Corbin took during the American raptors and songbirds that call Inwood Hill hike! Make sure you bring a fl ashlight and Revolution while we take a walk through Park home. a sleeping bag. Space is limited. To register, this historic park on Independence Day. visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register on Compost Workshop / Inwood Hill Park July 21. Basic Canoeing / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. / IHNC Meet at the – 3 p.m. / IHNC This quiet salt marsh Community Compost Center at the Inwood SUNDAY, AUGUST 1 is a perfect place to learn the basics of Nature Center to learn how you can be Canoe the Meer / Central Park 11 a.m. canoeing. Bring water, sun block and a more “green” and compost your kitchen – 2 p.m. / Harlem Meer near Lasker Pool snack. First-come, fi rst-served Ages 8+. scraps! Bring your food waste to add to our See July 10 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. bins and learn about the wonderful process Ages 8+. SATURDAY, JULY 10 of decomposition. Unlocking the Little Red Lighthouse /Fort SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 Washington Park 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. / W 181 Family Camping / Central Park 6 p.m. / Street and The story of TBA See July 3 listing. Space is limited. that brave lighthouse and the great gray To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ bridge lives on, and you can explore this register on July 28. landmark and even climb to the top for a scenic view! SUNDAY, AUGUST 8 Summer Nature Exploration: Series II / Fort Tryon Park 11 a.m. / Margaret Corbin Circle Discover the diverse wildlife and historic importance that are hidden all around this beautiful park. Field guides will be provided, but bring a pair of binoculars if you would like. What’s Living Underneath / Central Park 1 p.m. / BC Life abounds underneath and around the waters of Turtle Pond. Let’s SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 take a closer look at the smaller plants and Compost Workshop / Inwood Hill Park animals living in our city. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. / IHNC See July 18 listing. SATURDAY, JULY 24 Canoe the Meer / Central Park 11 a.m. Canoe the Meer / Central Park 11 a.m. Basic Canoeing / Inwood Hill Park 9 a.m. – – 3 p.m. / Harlem Meer near Lasker Pool – 3 p.m. / Harlem Meer near Lasker Pool 12 p.m. / IHNC See July 4 listing. See July 10 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. A fun-fi lled day of canoeing and water Ages 8+. safety. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Bugs Away! / Central Park 1 p.m. / Life jackets will be provided. First-come, DDC Enjoy observing the graceful moves Unlocking the Little Red Lighthouse / Fort fi rst-served. Ages 8+. All children must be of aquatic bugs dancing on the Meer, Washington Park 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. / W 181 accompanied by an adult. followed by a walk through wildfl ower Street and Plaza Lafayette See July 10 meadow in search of colorful and dynamic listing. butterfl ies. 10 OOutdoors utdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SUNDAY, AUGUST 15 SUNDAY, AUGUST 29 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Compost Workshop / Inwood Hill Park They Stand Among Us / Morningside Park 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. / IHNC See July 18 12 p.m. / 112 Street and Morningside listing. Drive Some tall, some short, some dark, some light. A smorgasbord of textures, colors, smells and lives. Take a walk with us as we explore trees and all that they have to offer. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Battery Park and Governor’s Island / Battery Park 10 a.m. / Battery Place and State Street The history of the is full of fascinating tales. Begin by unfolding the stories of Battery Park with the Urban Park Rangers. Then it is a quick ferry ride to West Side County Fair/ Riverside Park Governor’s Island where the National Park 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. / 68 – 72 Street and Hudson River Enjoy a little country Butterfl ies and Bees / Central Park 2 p.m. Rangers will complete your journey through the forts on this historic island. right here in Manhattan and celebrate / BC Learn about their basic biology and the change of seasons with carnival their importance to humans. We’ll journey rides and games, music, square dancing, through Shakespeare’s Garden, and then sideshow performers, a petting , stroll along the tall grasses of Turtle Pond. greenmarket and more! Visit the “Green Acre” environmental corner, with hands- SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 on activities for kids about environmental Family Fishing on the Hudson / Riverside awareness, green living, and animal care. Park 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. / West Harlem Piers Park, 135 Street and Hudson River See SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 July 17 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Spanning Time / 11 a.m. Ages 8+. / The Fountain, Park Row and Beekman Street Learn about united New York City SUNDAY, AUGUST 22 as we walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and return via the Manhattan Bridge. Tour will last approximately 3 hours, so wear Family Fishing on the Hudson / Inwood comfortable shoes and bring water. Hill 11 a.m. / IHNC See July 17 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Compost Workshop / 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Inwood Hill Park / IHNC See July 18 listing. Invasive Plants/ Riverside Park 12 p.m. / 116 Street and Riverside Drive What is an invasive plant? Why do we get rid of them? Learn about these types of fl ora and much more.

Pitch in, Clean up! / 10 a.m. / W 174 Street and Amsterdam Avenue Garbage grabbers, trash bags, and your glove-covered hands are the tools to help keep Highbridge Park clean for everyone to enjoy. Bring your friends, club, company or just yourself to help in this fun and earth-friendly event. Cold water provided but bring your own bottle! Commune with Nature! / Central Park 1 p.m. / Gapstow Bridge, approximately Berries, Birds and Black Locusts! / Central 62 Street on the Pond A relaxing Park 11 a.m. / DDC Find out what contemplative hike in the Hallet Nature happens when the gardeners step back, Sanctuary. Using guided visualizations we’ll and we let nature run its course in the Summer Nature Exploration: Series III help you connect with the sublime, primal, North Woods. Nocturnal Edition / Fort Tryon Park 6 p.m. recreative power of our blue planet. / Margaret Corbin Circle The park that SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 you know and love looks much different SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Osprey Watch / Inwood Hill Park 12 p.m. after the sun sets! Learn the changes that your park undergoes after dark as we Family Camping / Inwood Hill Park 6 p.m. / IHNC The osprey is quite an impressive / IHNC See July 31 listing. Space is limited. raptor to behold with its seven foot wing explore the forests and caverns for bats, mockingbirds and owls! To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ span and fi erce appearance. The osprey register on September 15. specializes in hunting fi sh and can be seen in the late summer months migrating and SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Evenings at Summit Rock / Central Park fi shing along the Hudson River. Unlocking the Little Red Lighthouse / Fort 6 p.m. / Summit Rock, enter at 85 Street Washington Park 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. / W 181 and Central Park West Enjoy an evening Evenings at Summit Rock/ Central Park Street and Plaza Lafayette of art and performance, contemplating 6 p.m. / Summit Rock, enter at 85 Street See July 10 listing. the culture of Seneca Village—a thriving and Central Park West Enjoy an evening community in this region—before it of art and performance, contemplating became known as Central Park. the culture of Seneca Village—a thriving community in this region—before it became known as Central Park. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers SUMMER 2010 11 Check out the Adventure Course at Alley Pond Park each Sunday (through November 21), when we open the East Coast’s largest high/low ropes course to the public, free of charge. For more information visit nyc.gov/ adventurecourse or call 718.217.6034 or 718.217.4685. SUNDAYS, SATURDAY, JULY 10 SATURDAY, JULY 24 MAY THROUGH NOVEMBER Canoeing / Flushing Meadows Corona Bike Tour / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / Alley Pond Adventure Course / Alley Park 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. / Meet on the Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of Pond Park 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. / APPAC southeast side of Meadow Lake, across the intersection of Totten Road and Cross Join us every Sunday from May 2 to small bridge, just west of the Van Wyck Island Parkway Pedal your way through November 21 at the largest ropes course Expressway Space is limited. First-come, Fort Totten’s history, dating back to the in the tri-state area. Our programs foster fi rst-served. Ages 8+. Civil War. We will be making several stops along the way highlighting important trust, problem-solving and team building Family Camping / while providing outdoor recreational fun. buildings on the base. Bring your own bike 6 p.m. / Parking lot at Union Turnpike and and helmet. Open to families and individuals ages 8 197 Street Be a part of the time-honored and above. Please arrive ½ hour before tradition of camping in the woods. Enjoy each session to register. Bring valid photo a barbecue cookout and a night hike identifi cation. No open toe shoes. too! Tents, dinner and a light breakfast If you have questions call 718-217-4685 provided. You must bring your own or visit nyc.gov/adventurecourse. sleeping bag. Each family size is limited to four people. Space is limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register on June 30. FRIDAY, JULY 2 Canoeing / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / SUNDAY, JULY 11 Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of Bugging Out / Kissena Park 11 a.m. / intersection of Totten Road and Cross Kissena Playground, near 164 Street and Island Parkway See the sights at Fort Oak Street Insects are the most numerous Totten, the Throggs Neck Bridge and Little and most misunderstood residents of city Neck Bay and learn the basics of canoeing. parks. Explore the life cycle, anatomy, and Freshwater Fishing / Space is limited. First-come, fi rst-served. some fascinating adaptations of these 3 p.m. / Parking lot on Baisley Boulevard Ages 8+. invertebrates. and 155 Street First-come, fi rst-served. Limited equipment provided. SATURDAY, JULY 3 Nature Scavenger Hunt / Fort Totten Park 2 p.m. / FTVC Birds, insects and trees... SUNDAY, JULY 25 Fort Totten is the place to be! Join us 15th Annual Rockaway Sandcastle Contest on a hunt in search of Mother Nature’s / Rockaway Beach 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. / Meet treasures. at B. 117 Street and the Boardwalk Test your architectural skills by building a sand FRIDAY, JULY 16 structure at the beach. It doesn’t have to Canoeing / Fort Totten 11 a.m. / be a castle, but it does have to be creative. Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of Prizes awarded. Bring your own tools. intersection of Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway See July 2 listing. First- FRIDAY, JULY 30 come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. Canoeing / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of SATURDAY, JULY 17 intersection of Totten Road and Cross Advanced Canoeing: / Fort Island Parkway See July 2 listing. First- Ethnobotany / Forest Park 10 a.m. / FPVC Totten Park 11 a.m. / Front entrance to come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. Learn the differences between helpful and Fort Totten, north of intersection of Totten harmful plants. It just might save your life Road and Cross Island Parkway Space is SATURDAY, JULY 31 some day. limited. Ages 12+. To register, visit nyc. Wild About Wildfl owers / Kissena Park Tree-mendous Hike / Kissena Park 1 p.m. gov/parks/rangers/register on July 7. 1 p.m. / Kissena Playground, near 164 / Kissena Playground, near 164 Street and Family Camping / Alley Pond Park 6 p.m. / Street and Oak Street Learn how to Oak Street Discover the green giants who APPAC See July 10 listing. Space is limited. identify some of Kissena Park’s native and live here. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ non-native and fl ora and fauna. register on July 7. SUNDAY, JULY 4 Family Camping / Cunningham Park 6 p.m. / Parking lot at Union Turnpike Early Birding / Alley Pond Park 10 a.m. / SUNDAY, JULY 18 and 197 Street See July 10 listing. Space APPAC Be a Nature Detective / Kissena Park is limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/ History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten Park 3 p.m. / Kissena Playground, near 164 rangers/register on July 21. 1 p.m. / FTVC Explore the nineteenth Street and Oak Street Kids put their century fortress that helped protect New wildlife investigation skills to the test as we SUNDAY, AUGUST 1 York City’s harbor from possible naval use clues to fi nd natures treasures. Ages 8 Backyard Birding for Kids / Kissena Park attack and learn about the history of and under. 11 a.m. / Kissena Playground, near 164 Willet’s Point. Astronomy 101 / Fort Totten Park 8 p.m. / Street and Oak Street Robins, blue jays FTVC Stargazing can be a thrill when using and starlings are just some of the birds you Way to Go / Kissena Park 1 p.m. / Kissena will fi nd in your own backyard. Can you Playground, near 164 Street and Oak proper equipment. Learn the basics of stargazing and this “Spock”-tacular hobby. identify these feathered friends? Binoculars Street Feeling lost? Signs and land marks recommended. work well, but what would you do if Weather permitting. there were none. Learn how to fi nd your Freshwater Fishing / Brookville Park way using a compass on our orienteering FRIDAY, JULY 23 2 p.m. / Brookville Boulevard and 144 course. Canoeing / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / Avenue First-come, fi rst-served. Limited Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of equipment provided. FRIDAY, JULY 9 intersection of Totten Road and Cross Canoeing / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / Island Parkway See July 2 listing. First- FRIDAY, AUGUST 6 Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. Canoeing / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / intersection of Totten Road and Cross Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of Island Parkway See July 2 listing intersection of Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway See July 2 listing. First- come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. 12 OOutdoors utdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Tree-mendous Hike / Kissena Park 10 a.m. CONTINUED 37th Annual Park Fair / Forest Park 10 a.m. / Kissena Playground, near 164 Street and Intermediate Canoeing / Idlewild Park / Buddy Monument, at the intersection Oak Street See July 3 listing. 3 p.m. / Craft Avenue and Huxley Street of Myrtle Avenue and Park Lane South The freshwater of Idlewild Park feeds Raffl es, games and nature walks; it’s fun Family Camping / Alley Pond Park 6 p.m. / directly into . Come explore for the whole family. Sponsored by the APPAC See July 10 listing. Space is limited. this 224 acre wetland preserve by boat. Richmond Hill Block Association. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ Children ages 8 and older can participate register on July 28. Tree-mendous Hike / Fort Totten Park with a parent or guardian. Canoes and 1 p.m. / Front entrance to Fort Totten, lifejackets provided. Space is limited. To north of intersection of Totten Road and SUNDAY, AUGUST 8 register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ Cross Island Parkway See July 3 listing. register on August 11. SUNDAY, AUGUST 22 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Wonderful World of Warblers / Fort Totten Scavenger Hunt / Kissena Park 10 a.m. / Park 9 a.m. / FTVC Warblers have spent Rose and Oak Avenues entrance Kids of the season feasting on our parks’ natural all ages welcome. Prizes awarded! goodies. Identify these bright-colored The Good, the Bad and the Beautiful birdies before they make their way out for Native and Exotic Plants / Fort Totten Park the fall season. Bring binoculars if you have 1 p.m. / FTVC Learn about our diverse them. community of green residents, and how Freshwater Fishing / Kissena Park 12 p.m. they get or don’t get along with their plant / Kissena Playschool, inside the park, near neighbors. Find out how exotic plants take Oak Avenue and 164 Street First-come, root away from their home, what makes fi rst-served. Limited equipment provided. Advanced Canoeing: Little Neck Bay / them succeed, and why their success often Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / Front entrance comes at the expense of wildlife diversity. to Fort Totten, north of intersection of SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 Family Camping / Fort Totten Park 6 p.m. Participants must be at least 12 years old. / FTVC See July 10 listing. Instead of a Fort Totten Bike Tour / Fort Totten Park To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ BBQ, dinner will be catered. To register, 11 a.m. / Front entrance to Fort Totten, register on July 28. visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/register on north of intersection of Totten Road and September 8. Are You Smarter than a Park Ranger? / Cross Island Parkway See July 24 listing. Kissena Park 3 p.m. / Kissena Playground, near 164 Street and Oak Street Do you Saltwater Fishing / Flushing Meadows SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 have what it takes to be smarter than Corona Park 2 p.m. / World’s Fair Marina, your local park rangers? Kids of all ages Pier 1, north of Citi Field, between 126 welcomed. St. and Grand Central Parkway Rather than catch a big fi sh in a small pond, why not try to catch a big fi sh in ? FRIDAY, AUGUST 13 All applicable fi shing regulations must be Canoeing / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. / followed. Equipment provided. First-come, Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of fi rst-served. Ages 8 +. intersection of Totten Road and Cross Island Parkway See July 2 listing. First- SUNDAY, AUGUST 29 come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. Community Family Day / 12 p.m. / Meet inside the park, near SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 the Merrick and Foch Boulevards entrance Intermediate Canoeing / Bayswater Park This day of festivities, hosted by the Friends 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. / B. 35 Street and of Roy Wilkins Park, is fun for the whole Scavenger Hunt / Forest Park 1 p.m. / Beach Channel Drive Explore the waters family. Enjoy various musical performances, FPVC Kids of all ages welcome. Prizes of Norton Basin by boat. Children ages 8 activities for kids, nature walks by the awarded! and older can participate with a parent or Urban Park Rangers and much, much guardian. Canoes and lifejackets provided. more. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Space is limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/ Mission of the Monarch / Flushing parks/rangers/register on August 4. SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 Meadows Corona Park 10 a.m. / Mauro History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten Park Nature Crafts / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. Playground, Park Drive East and 73 Terrace 1 p.m. / FTVC See July 4 listing. / FTVC Get creative with all that Mother As summer turns to fall, the monarch Nature has to offer. Come learn about our butterfl y embarks on an incredible journey SUNDAY, AUGUST 15 natural environment and then learn how to southward all the way to Mexico. use it to spark your artistic fi re. Orienteering / Cunningham Park 2 p.m. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 / Parking lot at Union Turnpike and 197 Denizens of the Dark / Cunningham Park Fall Migration / 10 a.m. / Street Learn navigation with a map and 7 p.m. / Parking lot at Union Turnpike Jamaica Avenue and Elton Street Keep an compass. You’ll never get lost in the and 197 Street Come on an after-hours eye out for the birds that fl y south every woods! Equipment provided. exploration while we look for bats, autumn in preparation for the upcoming raccoons, owls, and whatever else lurks in winter. SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 the dark. Bring a fl ashlight, but leave your Insect Insanity / Fort Totten Park 11 a.m. fear at home. Trolley Tour/ Fort Totten Park 12 p.m. / / FTVC Insects are the most numerous Front entrance to Fort Totten, north of and most misunderstood residents of city SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 intersection of Totten Road and Cross parks. Explore the life cycle, anatomy, and Ho, Ho, Ho, Green Giant / Alley Pond Island Parkway Relax and rest your feet some fascinating adaptations of these Park 10 a.m. / APPAC Tulip trees are the as our trolley winds its way through this invertebrates. tallest trees in NYC. Learn about the “Alley historic military base and peek into the Giant,” the largest tulip tree on Long past. The trolley will make several stops Island. along the way. History of Fort Totten / Fort Totten Park 1 p.m. / FTVC See July 4 listing. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers SUMMER 2010 13

From tours of Landfi ll to canoeing at Lemon Creek Park or archery at , aim to try something new on Staten Island.

SATURDAY, JULY 3 SATURDAY, JULY 17 SUNDAY, AUGUST 8 Canoeing Basics/ Clove Lakes Park Butterfl y Safari / 11 a.m. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Martling Pond Explore / BHNC We’ll teach you how to safely the tranquility of Martling Pond while capture, study, and release some of nature’s getting to know nature. Let’s look for most colorful fl ying insects. We’ll provide egrets, herons, and turtles while having the nets and fi eld guides; bring a camera fun! Equipment provided. First come, fi rst- and a snack, if you’d like. served. Ages 8+. SUNDAY, JULY 18 SUNDAY, JULY 4 Living Log / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. / History Club: American Revolution / BHNC Find out how much life there is in 11 a.m. / Visitor’s that “dead” log on the side of the trail. center, Hylan Boulevard and Satterlee Street In a last ditch effort for peace, SATURDAY, JULY 24 Benjamin Franklin, Edward Rutledge, and Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Landfi ll met at the Conference House Archery Basics/ Willowbrook Park Archery 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA See July Range 11 a.m. / Comfort Station near Eton to negotiate peace, but failed. Learn the 10 listing. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks. story of this historic turning point on this Place and Richmond Avenue Take aim and historic day. try for a bull’s eye! Don’t fret- we’ll teach SUNDAY, JULY 25 you the safe and proper way to draw a SATURDAY, JULY 10 Canoeing Basics/ Wolfe’s Pond Park bow and shoot and arrow. We’ll provide 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Meet behind Comfort bows, arrows, and targets. Station west of Cornelia Avenue See July 3 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Age 8+. SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 Salt Water Fishing / Lemon Creek Park FRIDAY, JULY 30 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Lemon Creek Pier- Family Camping/ Blue Heron Park 7 p.m. / Sharrot Avenue and Hylan Boulevard See BHNC See July 16 listing. Space is limited. July 11 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ Ages 8+. register on July 21. SUNDAY, AUGUST 15 SATURDAY, JULY 31 Canoeing Basics / Wolfe’s Pond Park Early Birding / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Comfort Station west of BHNC Cornelia Avenue See July 3 listing. Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Landfi ll Beautiful Bees / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. FRIDAY, AUGUST 20 / BHNC Buzzzzz around the park to 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA Come Family Camping / Wolfe’s Pond Park experience the wide variety of winged witness the dramatic transformation, as 7 p.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia wonders. You’ll see honey bees, bumble well as the turkey vultures, red-tailed Avenue See July 16 listing. Space is limited. bees, and even metallic green bees. Learn hawks, and ring-neck pheasants. You won’t To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/rangers/ how they help us every day, and check out believe your eyes! To register, visit register on August 11. nyc.gov/parks. their homes. Mysterious Mushrooms and Treacherous SUNDAY, AUGUST 1 SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 Toadstools/ 2 p.m. Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Landfi ll 10 Damsels and Dragons / Blue Heron Park / Playground at Ramona Avenue and a.m. & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA See July 10 11 a.m. / BHNC Discover the damselfl ies Lenevar Avenue We’ll trek in search listing. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks. of Witches’ Butter, Scaly Tooth, Jack and dragonfl ies that inhabit our ponds. O’Lanterns, Turkey Tails, and the Old Man You’ll learn to identify each species, and SUNDAY, AUGUST 22 of the Woods. You’re sure to have fun(gi) you’ll feel like a knight in shining armor. Maps and More / Willowbrook Park learning about the magic of mushrooms. 11 a.m. / Comfort Station near Eton Place and Richmond Avenue Never get SUNDAY, JULY 11 lost again! Learn the basics of maps and Salt Water Fishing/ Lemon Creek Park compasses, then take your turn on a 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. / Lemon Creek Pier- course. Sharrot Avenue and Hylan Boulevard Ahoy! When it comes to catching the Damsels and Dragons / Blue Heron Park big ones, nothing compares to salt water 2 p.m. / BHNC See August 1 listing. fi shing. Instructions, poles, and bait provided. First-come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 Early Birding / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / FRIDAY, JULY 16 BHNC Insect Insanity/ Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. Mysterious Mushrooms and Treacherous / BHNC What vital role do insects play in Toadstools / Bloomingdale Park 2 p.m. the natural world? Hike through the park / Playground at Ramona Avenue and and learn what creepy crawlers can do Lenevar Avenue See July 10 listing. besides give us the creeps! SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 SUNDAY, AUGUST 29 Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Landfi ll Beautiful Bees / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. / 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA See July BHNC See July 31 listing. 10 listing. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks. Knot for Nothing / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. Family Camping/ Willowbrook Park 7 p.m. / BHNC Ever been in a ‘bind,’ not knowing / Meet behind Carousel Get ready for which knot to use or how to tie something a fun evening of activities, followed by a down, up, or together? Come learn and night under the stars. Tents will provided practice some of the most basic & practical buy please bring a sleeping bag. Space is knots. Avoid knotty situations in the future, limited. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks/ and you’ll thank yourself for knot-knowing. rangers/register on June 7. 14 OOutdoors utdoors iin inn NNewNewew YYorkYorkork CCityCityity nyc.gov/parks/rangers URBAN PARK RANGERS

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Canoeing Basics/ Clove Lakes Park Park to Park: Heyerdahl Hill / High Rock CONTINUED 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. / Martling Pond See July Park 1 p.m. / HRRS Explore the haunted 3 listing. First-come, fi rst-served. Ages 8+. hill of Heyerdahl and the ruins that were left behind in the early 1800’s. Wear SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 hiking boots and bring a snack and water. Mysterious Mushrooms and Treacherous Moderate to diffi cult terrain. Toadstools/ Bloomingdale Park 11 a.m. Knot for Nothing / Blue Heron Park 1 p.m. / Playground at Ramona Avenue and / BHNC See August 29 listing. Lenevar Avenue See July 10 listing. Living Log / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. / SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 BHNC See July 18 listing. Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Landfi ll 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA See July 10 SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 listing. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks.

Butterfl y Safari / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. Nuts about Squirrels / Blue Heron Park / BHNC See July 17 listing. 11 a.m. / BHNC Do squirrels fi nd all of the nuts they bury? How do they climb down SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 trees headfi rst? Learn these answers and Early Birding / Blue Heron Park 9 a.m. / more in a trek through a park. BHNC SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 Insect Insanity/ Wolfe’s Pond Park 11 a.m. / Comfort Station west of Cornelia Avenue Mysterious Mushrooms and Treacherous See August 28 listing. Toadstools/ Bloomingdale Park 11 a.m. / Playground at Ramona Avenue and SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 Lenevar Avenue See July 10 listing. Fresh Kills Tour / Fresh Kills Landfi ll Hawk Walk / High Rock Park 2 p.m. / Maps and More / Blue Heron Park 11 a.m. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. / Meeting TBA See July HRRS Autumn means the beginning / BHNC Never get lost again! Learn the 10 listing. To register, visit nyc.gov/parks. of bird migration. We’ll hike to Moses basics of maps and compasses, then take Mountain in search of raptors and other your turn on a course. migrating bird species. Bring binoculars, comfortable walking shoes, and a snack. Damsels and Dragons / Blue Heron Park 2 p.m. / BHNC See August 1 listing. Alley Pond Park Adventure Course Staycation 10:00am &1:30pm September 1 - 6

Bring your sneakers and have a STAYCATION with us! It’s FUN and FREE! Challenge your mind, your body, your friends or your family. It’s fun for everyone, children and adults. (Ages 8+). REGISTRATION BEGINS ½ HR PRIOR TO EACH SESSION, NO OPEN TOE SHOES! For more information or to book an Adventure Course Program for an organized group of 10 or more, visit www.nyc.gov/parks keyword: Adventurecourse or call the Urban Park Rangers at the Alley Pond Adventure Center, 718.217.4685 or 718.217.6034. URBAN PARK RANGERS nyc.gov/parks/rangers CITY OF NEW YORK PARKS & RECREATION 15 Wild Playgrounds

What do you remember about summer as a child? For many of us, our most signifi cant childhood memories center around free time spent outdoors: building forts, damming streams, making mud pies, daydreaming, you name it! This summer, let your children create similar memories by joining the Urban Park Rangers for a Wild Playground program at one of the locations listed below. In Wild Playground programs, Rangers facilitate child-directed play in Parks natural areas, providing a safe place for children to explore and experience the natural world. Programs take place at 11am and 2pm every Wednesday through Sunday, from June 30th through August 20th. • Orchard Beach Pelican Bay Playground Section 6-7 Free Urban Park Ranger • Marine Park Lenape Playground “KidTime” Programs this Summer! • Inwood Hill Park Emerson Playground This summer, bring your children to parks around the city for drop-in Ranger programs. • Kissena Park Rose Ave. & 160 St. Kids love earning their Nature Detective badge as they explore the “wild” side of parks Playground with the Rangers. Scavenger hunts, “tree-mendous” hikes, and wildlife experiences await! Programs take place June 30th through August 20th. All programs begin and end in the • Clove Lakes Park Clove Lakes Park parks and playgrounds listed below. Check the website for details at nyc.gov/parks/rangers. Playground

Bronx Manhattan • Crotona Park Crotona Nature Center • Central Park 110th Street Playground • Barreto Point Tiff any St. Playground • Riverside Park river Run Playground • Van Cortlandt Park Southwest Playgound • Fort Tryon Jacob Javits Playground Brooklyn Queens • Fort Greene Fort Greene Playground • Fort Totten Fort Totten Playground • Prospect Park 3rd Street Playground & Staten Island • Wolf’s Pond Park Cornelia Ave Playground PAID U.S. POSTAGE PERMIT #9341 NEW YORK, NY OOutdoorsOutdoorsutdoors STD. PRE-SORTED iininn NewNNewew YorkYYorkork CityCCityity

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