New Yorkers encouraged to sign up for the 15th annual 'I Love My Park' Day

Participants can celebrate New York’s public lands by volunteering in cleanup and stewardship events throughout state; register for event here 

Submitted by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

Registration is open for the 15th annual I Love My Park Day, which will be held Saturday, May 2, at state parks, historic sites and public lands all across New York. The event, a partnership between Parks & Trails New York, the New York State Parks, and the Department of Environmental Conservation, is the largest statewide volunteer event to enhance parks, historic sites and public lands, and raise awareness and visibility to the state outdoor recreation assets and their needs. 

State Parks Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “Our volunteers play an essential role in keeping New York’s state parks and public lands welcoming, accessible, and ready for all to enjoy. 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 look forward to welcoming thousands of volunteers across the state this year.”

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “DEC is proud to steward nearly 5 million acres of public lands that provide unending benefits from water quality to unmatched recreational opportunities for New Yorkers. I Love My Park Day events are perfect opportunities for public stewards, volunteers and friends of the environment to get outside and give back to New York’s special places. Together, we can preserve and protect our incredible public lands to ensure they remain vibrant community spaces for generations to come.” 

Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Paul Steely White said, “Every great park has a story shaped by the people who care for it, and I Love My Park Day invites you to be part of that story. When you volunteer, you help keep these places vibrant and welcoming for everyone. Join thousands of New Yorkers and add your chapter to our state's growing tradition of public lands stewardship.” 

Volunteers will have the opportunity to participate in cleanup events at over 120 state parks, historic sites and public lands from Long Island to Western New York, and covering all regions in between – including sites operated by the DEC and municipal parks. Registration for I Love My Park Day can be completed here. 

Volunteers will celebrate New York's public lands by cleaning up debris, planting trees and gardens, restoring trails and wildlife habitats, removing invasive species and working on various site improvement projects. 

I Love My Park Day compliments Gov. Kathy Hochul’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, which encourages New York kids and families to log off of their phones and put their mental and physical health first as they head outside to get fresh air, play sports, enjoy nature, and see everything else our state has to offer.