Join the Catskill Center for a volunteer day dedicated to protecting the grassland birds that depend on Thorn Preserve. Species like bobolinks and eastern meadowlarks nest directly on the ground in open meadows, but as grassland habitat continues to decline across New York, places like Thorn have become increasingly important for their survival.

Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Location: 55 John Joy Road, Woodstock, NY 12498

Volunteers will help install symbolic fencing* around sensitive nesting areas by assembling signs onto wooden posts and placing them along the meadow perimeter. These simple, visible boundaries help reduce disturbance during the breeding season and protect vulnerable nesting habitat.

Throughout the day, Catskill Center staff will share information about the unique birds found at Thorn Preserve, their nesting behavior, and the importance of grassland stewardship. Binoculars will also be available, giving volunteers the chance to scan the meadow throughout the day and, with a little luck, spot the birds we’re helping to protect.

Please complete all volunteer forms prior to arrival. A limited number of copies will be available on site. All ages are welcome. Participants under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and those under 18 must have permission.

*Symbolic fencing is non-physical barrier used primarily in conservation to alert the public to stay away from sensitive areas, such as nesting sites and other sensitive habitats.

This conservation project is supported by the Laura Jane Musser Fund.