(Article written by Jazmyn Blackburn, MPA at Sciences Po & Canarsie Resident)
Across social media, people have been remarking on significant changes happening in parks and other green spaces since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. These environmental changes may be a result of a decrease in certain human activities. For example, some people claim that travel restrictions and the shutting of various industries have reduced air pollution and made certain regions of the world more welcoming to migratory birds.
Scientists cannot yet confirm whether these observations are truly linked to the effects of the pandemic. But what is certain is that these reports show us that people are taking the time to notice what’s happening in their environment every day.
Green spaces across New York City appear to have attracted more wildlife, including the Ecology Park located at Bergen Avenue in Mill Basin.
Floyd Jarvis, the Ecology Park’s docent, remarks that the park is in a state that can only be described as both”pristine” and “daunting.” He considers the park “pristine” in terms of the diversity of flora and fauna that, unrestricted, have emerged over the past few months. Yet, the current landscape is also “daunting” because of how difficult it has become to discern different species, cut back weeds, and generally maintain the park. The Ecology Park has relied on volunteerism in the past to cut back weeds and otherwise maintain the park’s fast-growing landscape.
Whether ecological changes are truly taking place around the world, or people simply have more time to appreciate the green and blue spaces around them, there is plenty of non-human activity happening around Jamaica Bay. No matter what the coming months have in store for New York and the rest of the world, as residents of the Bay, it is important to pay attention to what is happening in our green and blue spaces at this time; doing so may better prepare us for what the future has in store.
The Cycles of Resilience team would like to remind Jamaica Bay residents that the Bay is home to many green and blue spaces that are still open to the public, provided that visitors wear appropriate personal protection equipment (face covering and gloves) and practice responsible social distancing as mandated by the authorities.
During this period of uncertainty, taking the time to get outside, get fresh air, and visit these spaces safely and responsibly will help us become more aware of our communities, their needs, and how we might best engage with our spaces (blue, green, and everything in between) in the future.
Although the Ecology Park is not open to volunteers at this time, it is open up to 3 days a week Monday-Friday to visitors when the docent is present. All visitors must wear a face covering (mask) and gloves and are asked to practice social distancing while in the park. To verify the park’s opening hours in order to visit, please contact Floyd Jarvis: floyd.jarvis@naturalareasnyc.org.
