Join us on the Ashokan Rail Trail to kick off our Learn & Pull Volunteer Series!

We’ll be stepping back in time to explore how the forest composition along the Ashokan Reservoir has evolved over time and how its working history impacts the landscape we steward today.

Diving into the different eras of the reservoir’s past, from its agricultural history to the former Ulster & Delaware Railroad corridor, we’ll uncover the ways in which humans have changed the ecosystem and how invasive species are now accelerating that change.

After our educational hour, we’ll walk to our worksite approximately 1/10 of a mile from the Shokan Station parking lot. Here, we’ll review tool safety, invasive species identification, and best removal practices for our target species.

This will be a hands-on session at an off-trail work area, pulling invasive species such as common buckthorn, multifora rose, and bittersweet. This habitat restoration work will provide space for 120 native saplings to be planted later in the season.

Frequent breaks are encouraged, water and snacks will be provided, and all volunteers should dress for work in areas that may contain poison ivy, brambles, or ticks.

Please be sure to have all volunteer forms filled out prior to arrival. There will be physical copies on site if needed, but only a limited amount.