Volunteers Plant 200 Native Species in New York City
The We Love U Foundation added native greenery and cactus to the Arverne East Nature Preserve.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Botany
Forty volunteers from the We Love U Foundation planted 200 native species at the Arverne East Nature Preserve. The project included a mix of trees, shrubs, and prickly pear cacti to enhance the local ecosystem.
Why it matters
This planting initiative aims to bolster the environmental health of the Arverne East Nature Preserve. It also served to honor a longtime conservationist for his half-century of work in the Rockaway and Jamaica Bay regions.
Volunteers installed 100 native shrubs and trees alongside 100 prickly pear cactus plants at the site. The planting was conducted by 40 participants, with logistical support provided by Stop and Shop.
The players
We Love U Foundation
This organization mobilizes volunteers to engage in environmental and social welfare projects across various communities.
Don Riepe
He is a veteran environmentalist recognized for his 50-year commitment to restoring and protecting parks and shorelines in Rockaway and Jamaica Bay.
Stop and Shop
The grocery chain provided food and beverages to support the community volunteers during the restoration event.
The details
The event focused on improving the ecological diversity of the preserve by adding plant species native to the area. Participants also dedicated time to celebrate the career of Don Riepe, who has spent over 50 years working to improve local shorelines.
Timeline
Volunteers conducted the planting at the nature preserve on October 25, 2026.
The Big Picture
This community-led planting event follows the long-term ecological restoration goals set for the Arverne East Nature Preserve. It represents a shift toward active public involvement in managing the biodiversity of protected coastal environments.
The introduction of native shrubs and cacti helps improve soil stability and provides essential habitat for local pollinators. Residents living near the preserve can expect a more resilient landscape that requires less maintenance over time.
The takeaway
Restoring native habitats is a practical way for community members to contribute directly to the ecological health of their local parks. Selecting species like the prickly pear cactus ensures the new greenery is well-suited to the sandy, coastal environment.
Further reading
For more information on local native plant restoration efforts, visit the New York City Botany section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Wave - Rockaway's Newspaper since 1893 | 718-634-4000.
