Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs Spring Plantings; I Bird NY Challenge

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation sent this bulletin on 06/16/2020 10:10 AM EDT
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Hudson RiverNet
News from the Hudson River Estuary Program

In this Issue:

  • Native Tree and Shrub Seedlings Planted Along the Walkill River
  • I Bird NY Challenge
  • #AdventureAtHome

Native Tree Seedlings Planted Along the Walkill River in New Paltz

In the Town of New Paltz, DEC’s Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs recently contributed 100 native trees and shrub seedlings to the Open Space Institute and the Wallkill River Watershed Alliance to plant along the Wallkill River on the River-to-Ridge Trail. This partnership provided local opportunities for residents to safely enjoy the outdoors while helping the environment. 

To ensure the safety of this activity, program staff carefully planned how to deliver the plants, stage the site, and instruct volunteers how and where to plant. Each tree and shrub seedling was clearly labeled, and each planting location was flagged with the name of the seedling. Program staff created video instructions to show volunteers how to plant correctly. The Wallkill River Watershed Alliance scheduled volunteers in separate shifts to ensure only one person or family at a time was on the site. Volunteers were asked to bring their own tools and plant at least three trees. When volunteers arrived on site, the planting locations and seedling names were clearly marked. 

An older man steadies a green tree tube behind his granddaughter who is doing the same.Trees for Tribs provided an additional 740 native plants to seven other streamside sites this spring. Altogether, these trees, grasses, and shrubs will be planted on approximately 1.3 acres along 1,400 miles of stream.

Trees for Tribs helps local partners conserve tributary streams. Native trees and shrubs protect water quality, fish and wildlife, and also reduce erosion and flooding. Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs is a collaboration of DEC’s Hudson River Estuary Program and the NYS Water Resources Institute at Cornell University.  DEC’s Saratoga Tree Nursery provides the native plants. Learn more on DEC’s website.  

More than 20 long green vertical plastic tree tubes are protecting seedlings planted by a river.

2020 I Bird NY Challenges Now Open

This bird is a red-bellied woodpecker. It has black and white feathers and a red head.Are you 16 years or younger and live in New York State? If you have an interest in birds, try the I Bird NY challenge for beginners or experienced birders. Find 10 common New York bird species and DEC will send you a special certificate for taking the challenge. You will also be entered into a random drawing for birding accessories. Download the I Bird NY Beginner's Challenge form (PDF) or Experienced Birder Challenge form (PDF) and get started today. Both challenges are open now through September 30th. All entries must be received by October 14th.

New York State is home to a wide range of habitats that support more than 450 different bird species throughout the year. In New York, there are also 59 designated Bird Conservation Areas to safeguard and enhance bird populations and habitats. Visit the state's I Bird NY program to learn more.

#AdventureAtHome

Adventure NY is going virtual! As part of #AdventureAtHome, DEC will be bringing you weekly content for inspiration on how to enjoy the outdoors close to home. Check our website each week for new content. Be sure to sign up for Find Your Adventure (the Camping, Wildlife Viewing, and Hiking) email newsletter as well.