Invasive species are non-native species that cause harm to the environment, the economy, or human health. Invasive species come from all around the world. When they’re introduced to a new environment, there is often no natural predator to stop the invasive species from spreading and pushing out native species. With too many invasive species in an ecosystem, native species can’t effectively create habitat for wildlife and support native pollinators.
Like everywhere in New York, our state parks and historic sites have to consider the impact from invasive species. Everyone can help, even if it’s just keeping an eye out and reporting your observations of invasive species to iMapInvasives!
There are countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors at New York State Parks. Whether camping, boating, fishing, or exploring our trails, we all share the responsibility to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. We’ve assembled a list of tips and tricks for the next time you’re connecting with nature at one of our facilities, but they all boil down to a few simple concepts: stay aware of your surroundings, leave no trace, keep safety in mind, and follow the rules.
On Saturday, May 3, there was a warmth in New York that no rains could dampen.
I Love My Park Day volunteers brave the rains at Allegany State Park, Clark Reservation, and Wellesley Island on Saturday, May 3.
I Love My Park Day returned for its fourteenth year. Across hundreds of historic sites, state parks, rail trails and public lands, thousands of volunteers turned out to help us prepare for the summer. They came as families, they came in groups small and large, they came alone, but they left as a part of a bigger whole, coming together for their communities.
As Tom Petty once sang, “You belong among the wildflowers, you belong in a boat out at sea.” At New York State Parks, we cannot offer you a boat at sea, but we CAN offer you wildflowers! New York State is blessed with a bounty of native wildflowers that you can view throughout the year, but they are particularly brilliant in the spring.
Spring season is photo season! Whether you’re capturing prom or graduation photos, scouting locations for wedding photos, thinking ahead to your Christmas cards, or just looking to refresh your social feeds, it’s the perfect time of year to get out there with your camera or cell phone. Read on for location inspiration in various categories—truly one-of-a-kind locations, waterfalls, iconic New York visuals, design-focused areas, and more!—and get professional photography tips from our State Parks photographer and videographer.
New York State Parks and Historic Sites Blog 