What we’re about
Come join the Friends of the Pine Bush Community as we explore a globally rare ecosystem right here in the Capital District! This group is for anyone interested in local environmental conservation, outdoor recreation, and learning new things. Our gatherings range from volunteering in the preserve to hikes, bike rides, and more! Meet-up with us to enjoy socializing with others who enjoy the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, visit www.PineBushFriends.org or call 518-690-2764.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Spring Hike in the Woodlawn PreserveWoodlawn Preserve, Schenectady, NE
Schenectady’s Woodlawn Pine Bush Preserve is a hidden gem. Tucked away in the Woodlawn neighborhood of Schenectady, just a few blocks south of Albany Street, it is an undeveloped, rare natural community and wetlands with a unique ecosystem that is home to several rare species; it is part of the same ecosystem as the neighboring Albany Pine Bush Preserve and includes sand plains and dune formations, pitch pine and scrub oak barren and historic Karner Blue butterfly habitat, which while currently unoccupied, may be restored as a future reintroduction site.
The Woodlawn Preserve trailhead and kiosk can be found at the very end of Gifford Road….using GPS, it is at 1 Gifford Road. That will be the meeting place for the hike through the preserve.
Hike Guidelines and Rules:
- Hikers may be split up into two groups, depending upon the number of participants, to abide by Preserve Regulations on group size.
- No pets are allowed.
- Please be aware of ticks. For more information please visit https://tinyurl.com/7uh5zd8c
This event is hosted by the Friends of the Pine Bush Community. For questions, please contact info@PineBushFriends.org.
- Friends Lupine Fest WalkTrailhead #7, Albany , NY
We’ll meet at Madison Avenue Pinelands Trailhead #7 and walk the purple trail.
This walk is part of the month-long Lupine Fest celebration of spring! Check out this link for more info www.AlbanyLupineFest.orgTo learn more about the Friends and the 20 Mile Challenge, please visit www.PineBushFriends.org, or ask the hike leader.
Hike Guidelines and Rules:
- No pets are allowed.
- Hikers may be split up into two groups, depending upon the number of participants, to abide by Preserve Regulations on group size.
- Please be aware of ticks. For more information please visit https://tinyurl.com/7uh5zd8c
If you’re unable to attend this event, please update your RSVP to “No” to make room for someone else who may be on the waitlist.
This event is hosted by the Friends of the Pine Bush Community. For questions, please contact info@PineBushFriends.org or 518-690-2764
- Night with the ArtsAlbany Pine Bush Preserve and Discovery Center, Albany, NY$25.00
Join the Friends of the Pine Bush Community for a special evening celebrating the intersection of art and conservation!
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS
As part of Lupine Fest this year, A Night with the Arts will honor the life and legacy of renowned wildlife artist Wayne Trimm, whose stunning depictions of the natural world continue to inspire. Guests will receive one print with a paid ticket and will have the opportunity to purchase a variety of additional prints of his artwork, with proceeds supporting environmental education and conservation efforts at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.
The evening will also feature the first public screening of Scorching Success, a powerful short film that captures the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission’s transformative use of prescribed fire. Conservation Director, Neil Gifford will share insights into the making of the film and the ecological importance of fire in this globally rare habitat.
In addition, enjoy a curated photography exhibit showcasing the beauty of the preserve, connect with local writers whose works bring the natural world to life and explore unique handmade items in the Discovery Center Gift Shop.
This inspiring event is a celebration of creativity, conservation, and community. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience the Pine Bush through the eyes of artists, photographers, and storytellers.
Tickets: $25 per person. Includes one print from the Wayne Trimm collection and artfully prepared charcuterie with Date & Olive Grazing Co.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS
We look forward to sharing this special evening with you!
Questions? Contact info@pinebushfriends.org
Visit www.PineBushFriends.org for additional event details. - Book Club - Ignition: Lighting Fires in a Burning WorldLink visible for attendees
Join us for an online Zoom discussion about the book Ignition: Lighting Fires in a Burning World by Maura O'Conner.
Synopsis: A work of on-the-ground reporting into the science of, and cultural ideas around, wildfires and fire management that challenges the ethos of the conservation movement, offering a hopeful vision of the connection between humans and our environment.When you RSVP you will get access to a Zoom link for May 21, 7PM.
This program is part of the 2025 Lupine Fest passport program, where you can earn prizes by participating in events all month long! To get your passport visit www.AlbanyLupineFest.org or download the Goosechase app and search for “Albany Lupine Fest”
