Ahoy, Volunteers: Riverkeeper Hudson River Sweep Is Saturday, May 11

Black Rock Forest Offers Summer Science Classes

There's still time to register for the Black Rock Forest Consortium Summer Science Class program for grades 7-12. Developed and taught by subject experts, these classes provide an opportunity to explore college and career possibilities in the natural sciences while having fun in locations ranging from Black Rock Forest in Cornwall, NY, to the Florida coast and summits of the Adirondack Mountains. 

The program has been co-developed by Dr. Jeffrey Kidder, Consortium Education Director, and science faculty from member institutions, including American Museum of Natural History, Barnard College, City University of New York, Columbia University, New York University and The Browning School.

Don't delay, classes will be filled on a first come, first served basis. View the program brochure or contact Lorrin Johnson for more information.

Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Offers Turtle Tales Sunday, June 2

Turtles are the focus of the final Wildlife Education Series workshop, to be held on Sunday, June 2, from 2:00-3:00pm at Hubbard Lodge (see directions below).  The series, presented in partnership with the Hudson Highlands Land Trust and Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park, brings the Nature Museum's expertise to the east side of the Hudson.

These ancient reptiles are facing many challenges to their existence. "Box turtles are adapted to live on land," says Educator Pam Golben. "They need water to drink, but the do not swim like other turtle species in New York."

Participants will meet some live examples and learn about the remarkable adaptations, then take a walk in search of wild turtles. Bring binoculars.

Programs are recommended for adults with or without children, and for children ages five and up.  Admission fees for all programs support the care of the Museum's animals at the Wildlife Education Center in Cornwall.  Admission is $7/adult and $5/child (museum members: $5/adult, $3/child). Visit hhnaturemuseum.org for more information, or call 845/424-5506 x204.

Hubbard Lodge (2880 Rte. 9, Cold Spring) is part of Fahnestock State Park. The entrance is on the east side of Rte. 9, just north of Rte. 301.

(back to top)

Call for Volunteers to Survey Golden Winged Warbler in Harriman State Park

The Palisades Interstate Parks Commission and Bear Mountain Trailside Museums and Zoo are looking for volunteers to help survey areas of Harriman State Park for Golden-winged warblers.  By surveying potentially suitable wetlands for this territorial bird, organizers hope to gain a better understanding of the regional status of this declining species.

Volunteers are asked to attend a two-hour workshop on Monday, May 13, at the new ballfield on Tiorati Brook Rd. at 9:30am.  Please RSVP to Max Garfinkle. Wear muck boots and long pants, and bring water, snacks and binoculars (if you have them).

(back to top)

Public Comment on HHLT's Accreditation Renewal Welcome

HHLT is applying for accreditation renewal through the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program that recognizes land Conservation organizations that meet national quality standards for protecting important natural places and working lands forever.  As part of its review of each applicant's policies and programs, the Commission invites public input and accepts signed, written comments on pending applications. 

Visit the HHLT website for more information on our accreditation renewal and links to submit your comments.

(back to top)