Van Cortlandt Park Alliance - Fires in Van Cortlandt Park

Over the last week, Van Cortlandt Park was the site of multiple fires. 

 

The lack of rain, high winds, and the sheer size of the park’s vast wooded area have made combatting the fires a challenge. 

 

Van Cortlandt Park’s devoted team of NYC Parks workers, VCPA staff, and Vital Volunteers have worked together tirelessly identifying new fires that continue to pop up, alerting FDNY and NYPD, and in some cases – assisting with putting the fires out. They are true heroes. 

 

We especially thank the FDNY and NYPD who responded quickly to contain each flare up and NYC Parks Enforcement Patrol and Rangers who have patrolled Van Cortlandt Park at all hours. 

 

Thanks to those of you who have been vigilant and alerted us to fire conditions in the field. 

We very much appreciate your help and hope that we can count on you in the months ahead. 

 

Caring for the woodlands is core to VCPA’s mission, and we will be assessing the damage and starting work to stabilize the area and restore it with native plantings as soon as we can.

 

For those who are able, we appreciate your contribution of any size to help with these efforts. We will also provide volunteer opportunities to support our woodland work.

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Please also use your voice to advocate for a fully funded NYC Parks budget, which is critical for keeping our city's green spaces thriving. 

  

Lastly, during this drought, we ask our community to use caution in the park.  

Open fires, BBQs, and smoking are prohibited, and any fires should be reported immediately to 911.  

  

Be safe,  

  

Stephanie Ehrlich 

Executive Director  

Van Cortlandt Park Alliance 

Our Contact Information
Van Cortlandt Park Alliance
80 Van Cortlandt Park South, Ste. E1
Bronx, NY 10463
718-601-1460
http://vancortlandt.org