Learning the FIRST Tool

Climate change forecasts indicate that future weather conditions in NYC could be less suitable for some of its native tree species, while other natives are predicted to thrive. During this two-hour training, you’ll learn how to use the Forest Identification and Restoration Selection Tool (FIRST) — the climate-adapted planting palettes for forest restoration sites developed by the Natural Areas Conservancy in partnership with NYC Parks. This new tool guides forest restoration practitioners through planning for future plantings. FIRST helps with identifying the type of forest community in which the project is taking place, as well as selecting tree species that are appropriate for the site both now and in the future.

This training is only open for NYC Parks administrators, managers, and staff, local park conservancy employees, and any NYC Parks staff who specifies or plants in parks. Spots are available on a first come, first served basis. Funding for this workshop has been provided by a grant from the Wildlife Conservation Society Climate Adaptation Fund.

About this Event:
The Natural Areas Conservancy, in partnership with NYC Parks, is proud to work directly with park conservancies across New York City, to advise and assist with the stewardship of 10,000 acres of natural areas. Our scientists have developed a set of resources and tools to streamline these citywide management efforts. Throughout the spring and summer, we'll be holding a series of workshops and trainings for partner organizations to learn and test-drive these cutting edge tools.