In honor of “Be Kind to Animals Month,” help the critters along the Ashokan Rail Trail by removing invasive plants and planting natives to restore their habitat! Restoring native plant communities has a positive impact by improving access to food resources, shelter, nesting materials, and breeding habitat for native wildlife—while also helping to prevent invasive monocultures from taking over.

Work alongside the Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP) in a hands-on effort to restore sections of the trail along the Ashokan Rail Trail. Join us on May 17th from 9 AM to 12 PM at the Ashokan Station Trailhead to identify and remove invasive species.

During the first half of the day, we’ll use iMapInvasives to log the areas where invasives are spotted and remove them from the area! After a break, we will plant some of the saplings in the holes you’ve prepared and install posts and fencing around each to protect them from the various elements. 

There will be training on iMapInvasives, as well as proper tool use, removal and planting methods, and more before we head to the work site. We will be providing and using tools such as loppers, pick mattocks, hand trowels, etc. 

There will be a quick 3-minute walk to the site, but for the most part, we will be working in tall grass, where poison ivy and thorn bushes grow. Please dress appropriately; no open-toed shoes, specifically sandals, flip flops, or Crocs. We suggest bringing sunscreen, bug spray, water, lunch, or a snack. Granola bars will be available as well. There are portable restrooms at the trailhead and ample parking. 

Important: Please be sure to fill out all waivers prior to the event, cell reception can be spotty, and we do not want to turn you away if you’re unable to sign them on location.