ASEZ volunteers hosted a plant restoration and cleanup event at Albany Pine Bush Preserve. Volunteers partnered with staff from Assemblymember Patricia Fahy’s office. This initiative supported ASEZ’s Green Carbon campaign, which focuses on restoring ecosystems to capture and store carbon. Overall, it helps to produce a healthier and more sustainable environment.
The Albany Pine Bush Preserve is located between the Catskill and Adirondack mountains. It spans 3,350 acres and offers visitors a wealth of geological, natural, and cultural history. The preserve is home to diverse yet rare plant and animal species, like the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly. Also, visitors of all ages can explore the preserve’s trails or engage with hands-on activities at the Discovery Center, making it a hub for education and recreation.
Plant Restoration for a More Sustainable Future
Erin Kinal, Education Program Director at Albany Pine Bush Preserve, provided a detailed overview of the preserve and the event’s goals. Around 35 volunteers actively participated by collecting seeds from big bluestem and indiangrass. Then, these seeds will be cleaned and preserved at a USDA facility before being replanted in the spring. This replanting effort will help restore critical areas within the preserve’s 3,400 protected acres. This will ensure the survival of its unique ecosystem.
The event highlighted the importance of environmental sustainability and community involvement. Professor Aaron Benavot from the University at Albany’s Educational Policy and Leadership department joined the volunteers and emphasized the significance of youth empowerment in addressing climate change. He stated, “It’s crucial for young people to feel empowered and raise their voices about the impacts of climate change, which are happening all around us. Sustainability goes beyond recycling; it’s about understanding our community and connecting local efforts to global solutions.”
ASEZ Recognized for Their Efforts at Albany Pine Bush Preserve
In recognition of their dedication, Assemblymember Fahy’s office presented ASEZ with a proclamation honoring their volunteer work. Events like this demonstrate the importance of preserving natural spaces like Albany Pine Bush Preserve, which play a vital role in combating climate change by reducing carbon emissions and supporting biodiversity.
ASEZ remains steadfast in its mission to protect the planet. Through initiatives like the Green Carbon campaign, volunteers across New York and around the globe continue to lead activities that promote environmental sustainability and inspire collective action for a greener future. To see more activities from ASEZ visit our Activities page!
