Volunteers Drive 15th Annual ‘I Love My Park’ Day Across New York State

Marsha P Johnson Park. Photo Courtesy of NYS Parks

More than 5,000 Volunteers Support 150+ Events to Prepare Parks and Public Lands for the Summer Season

View Images of Events on Flickr

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 today. 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.

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 Western New York 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

Parks & Trails New York 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. More information can be found here. 

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

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.

New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

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, and welcomes 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. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, or the OPRHP Blog.