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We advocate for natural areas

Sarah Charlop-Powers walks towards microphone in front of City Hall, surrounded by ralliers holding “Tree equity” signs

Championing natural areas in NYC and nationwide

As the leading advocate for natural areas in New York City, the Natural Areas Conservancy works collaboratively to ensure that our urban forests, wetlands, and grasslands are protected and receive sufficient public investment. Protecting urban natural areas is critically important for climate resilience, job creation, public recreation, and the preservation of vital ecosystems.

Our strategic partnerships and research are the cornerstones of our environmental advocacy. We amplify the vital role of natural areas as a climate solution and call for the targeted investments necessary to protect and conserve these spaces. Partnership is the key to our success as advocates, and we work closely with park users and leading environmental advocates focused on parks, forestry, environmental justice, and the public realm.

Partnership in action

A group of Forests in Cities members stand in a misty forest led by a man in a green coat

The Forests in Cities network

The NAC’s Forest in Cities network was launched in 2019 to promote and advance healthy forested natural areas in cities across America.

Through our 19-city network, we advance natural areas science, management, partnerships, and communication.

Explore the Network
Mormei, Sarah, Gabe, Emily, and Alia stand in city hall park beside trees after rally
A sign is held up at a rally that reads “The Parks saved us during covid, we must save the parks”

Raising awareness of natural areas

The 20,000 acres of natural areas within NYC require unique approaches to conservation and management. Our team advocates for policies and funding to support the care of urban natural areas with the city, state, and federal governments.

Get Involved

Featured Blog Post

Help NAC Advocate for Natural Areas in the City Budget

Between now and the end of June, the New York City Council and the Mayor’s Office will be making critical decisions about the budget for NYC Parks. You can help us advocate for our city’s natural forested ...

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Planning for now and the next generation

  • A dense forest with fallen brown leaves on ground, paved path on right

    Forest Management Framework

    The Forest Management Framework for New York City is a strategic and comprehensive plan to bolster and protect NYC’s vital urban forests.

    Learn more
  • Wetland surrounded by tall grass with trees on horizon, there is a blue sky above with white fluffy clouds

    Wetlands Management Framework

    This framework presents a bold new vision for the restoration and care of NYC’s wetlands, outlining how to save these critical natural spaces.

    Learn more
  • A post in a forest with trail markers and arrows

    New York City Strategic Trails Plan

    This plan aims to upgrade our city’s system of nature trails that spans all five boroughs and unify the existing network within NYC’s natural areas.

    Learn more

Support our environmental advocacy by giving today

Your contribution ensures the NAC can continue to advocate for our city’s valuable and vulnerable forests and wetlands.

Give Today
Large group of protestors holding Play Fair signs stand on steps of NYC city hall