The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 5 is inviting residents to participate in ‘Wildlife Day’ on Saturday, October 4, 2025. The event will take place at Rogers Rock Campground in Warren County and Paul Smith’s Visitor Interpretive Center in Franklin County.
Wildlife Day is designed to involve the public in wildlife conservation service projects and educational workshops throughout New York. The event aims to celebrate the state’s wildlife and habitats. It is organized with support from Parks and Trails New York and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation as part of the Love Our New York Lands Stewardship Days Campaign. This campaign promotes stewardship activities year-round and highlights outdoor recreation opportunities by hosting themed events across the state.
Volunteer registration for Wildlife Day is now open. Residents are encouraged to join their local community for cleanup efforts, enhancement projects, or educational events.
At Paul Smith’s Visitor Interpretive Center, participants can assist with preparing for winter by helping remove the net from the Butterfly House and working in the butterfly meadow. All ages are welcome at this activity, which runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., located at Frank M. Hutchins Lodge on State Route 86 in Paul Smiths, NY.
At Rogers Rock Campground, volunteers can join a nature hike up Rogers Rock Slide to learn about local history and species encountered along the trail. This hike is approximately one mile long with some steep sections and is recommended for individuals aged 13 and older. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., starting at the campground’s registration booth.
Both activities require appropriate attire such as closed-toed shoes or boots, layers suitable for weather conditions, rain gear if necessary, water, and work gloves where applicable.
For more information or to register for either event, interested individuals can visit Parks & Trails NY.
“Wildlife Day provides a perfect opportunity to participate in wildlife conservation service projects and educational workshops across the state, celebrating New York’s diverse wildlife and habitats,” according to DEC Region 5.
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