‘I Love My Park Day’ Draws 5,000+ Volunteers Across New York State
Statewide volunteer effort highlights the power of community stewardship in preserving parks, trails, and natural spaces for future generations.
NEW YORK STATE - The 15th annual “I Love My Park Day” brought together more than 5,000 volunteers at over 150 state parks, historic sites, and public lands across New York State on May 2. The event, hosted by Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), is the largest statewide volunteer initiative dedicated to enhancing New York’s outdoor spaces while raising awareness of their ongoing needs.
“I Love My Park Day” complements Governor Hochul’s 'Get Offline, Get Outside' initiative which encourages New York youth and families to step away from screens, prioritize their mental and physical well-being, and enjoy the benefits of time outdoors.
“The incredible turnout speaks to the deep connection New Yorkers have with their parks and public lands,” said Kathy Moser, Acting Commissioner for the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “Volunteers play an essential role in keeping these spaces welcoming, accessible, and ready for the millions who visit each year. I Love My Park Day is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together through stewardship and service. We’re grateful to our partners at Parks & Trails New York and DEC and we look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors across the state for another busy summer.”
Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “As one of the largest conservation-focused volunteer events in our great state, I Love My Park Day reflects our shared commitment to protecting our public lands and wild places. Thank you to the thousands of volunteers who joined statewide stewardship efforts and projects to support and improve our outdoor spaces.”
Paul Steely White, Parks & Trails New York Executive Director, also commented, “I Love My Park Day shows what’s possible when people come together in a shared spirit of stewardship. For 15 years, volunteers across the state have given their time and energy not just to care for public lands, but to strengthen the bond between communities and the landscapes that sustain them. That kind of collective action is powerful. It transforms parks into places of connection and pride. We thank every volunteer who stepped up this year to ensure New York’s green spaces remain welcoming and resilient for everyone who enjoys them.”
Volunteer projects took place in every corner of the state - from Long Island to the Hudson Valley, from the Mohawk Valley to the Southern Tier, from the Finger Lakes to Allegany State Park, and into the Adirondacks. Participants completed a wide range of site improvement projects including the removal of debris, restoring trails and wildlife habitats, addressing invasive species, and planting 2,000 trees - 700 more than last year.
Parks & Trails New York (PTNY) is New York's leading statewide advocate for parks and trails, dedicated since 1985 to improving our health, economy, and quality of life through the use and enjoyment of green space for all. With thousands of members and supporters across the state, PTNY is a leading voice in the protection of New York's magnificent state park system and the creation and promotion of more than 1,500 miles of greenways, bike paths, river walks, and trails.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation manages five million acres of public lands, including three million acres in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserve, 55 campgrounds and day-use areas, more than 5,000 miles of formal trails and hundreds of trailheads, boat launches, and fishing piers. Plan your next outdoor adventure and connect with @NYSDEC on social media.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches, and more, welcoming over 86 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app, or call 518-474-0456.