Restoration & Access

Protecting and restoring our cherished community resource

About the
River

The only freshwater river in NYC

Restoring the River

Bringing the river back to life

Developing the Greenway

Expanding access to parks and trails

Video produced by our community partner, Wildlife Conservation Society

bronx River's Most Wanted

Help stop the spread of invasive species

Timeline of Impact

A once-polluted waterway has been transformed

The Bronx River has changed dramatically over the years. Thanks to a broad coalition of community-based organizations, what was once a polluted waterway has been transformed and restored into a clean and green place for everyone to enjoy.

Before and after photos of just one portion of Shoelace Park.

A Closer Look

Expanding Biodiversity

American eels & alewife herring access newly-restored habitat

For hundreds of years, the 182nd street dam prevented river herring from traveling upstream to spawn. That’s all changed, thanks to decades-long restoration work with our partners. Now both herring and American eels from the Atlantic Ocean can access newly-restored habitat in the Bronx River, promoting self-sustaining populations.

Animals and Plants of the River

The ecosystem now teems with life

After centuries of historic industrial pollution and abuse—and decades of restoration—the Bronx river is now an ecosystem that is teeming with life. Before visiting the river yourself, take an in-depth look at the inhabitants as seen and captured by others. Seeing wildlife? Submit your own pictures!

A Closer Look

Get Involved

Check out these volunteer opportunities

Thu17Apr

Visit The River