Our Mission
The Bronx River Parkway Reservation Conservancy (BRPRC) is a member-based non-profit organization which was founded in 1997 and is dedicated to supporting the County of Westchester in its stewardship of the Bronx River Parkway Reservation.
The Conservancy is an advocate for the protection and preservation of the unique multi-faceted character of the Reservation, a park listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
It provides volunteers and funding for projects that enhance the Reservation's natural beauty, contributes to the quality of its environment, and educates the public about its historic nature.
The BRPRC links concerned citizens with the Westchester County government, which owns and maintains the road, pathway and extraordinary parkland that was created over 80 years ago. The river which travels through Westchester and the Bronx to Long Island Sound is currently the subject of major regional water-quality and environmental initiatives.
In recognition of the intact historic character of the Reservation, its 10 northernmost miles were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. It was designated a New York State Scenic Byway in 1995.
New Invasive Threat
Incised Fumewort (Corydalis incisa)
This plant is a native of the forest floodplains of China, Japan and Korea. Surprisingly, in 2005 it was found in the Bronx, in the floodplain of the Bronx River, where it has become highly invasive. It has recently been found along the Bronx River in Westchester County where we, along with the Westchester County Parks Department and scientists from Iona College, are continuing the effort begun in NYC to control its spread through study, education and removal.
If found, please send photos and location to info@bronx-river.com.
What does it look like?
Flowers: Tubular, purple; 10-16 on each of several stalks per plant; bloom April to May
Leaves: Highly divided, deeply incised; pale green above, white cast on the underside; smooth and hairless
Size: Mature plants up to 20' tall; immature plants range from sprouts to 4" tall
Roots: Fibrous for mature plants; immature plants distinguished by a fat tuber
Seeds: Very small, black spheres in pods that ripen quickly and explode to disperse seed in May
Why is it a threat?
Invasive plants disrupt the balance of ecosystems by displacing native plants and reducing biodiversity. Incised Fumewort reproduces quickly and aggressively, blanketing areas within only a few years.
Where is it found?
A native of forest floodplains in Asia, it prefers moist, shady spots, riverbanks, and drainage channels. Having escaped the cultivation of a nursery or garden, it has found its way to the shores of the Bronx River.
What can I do?
Don't plant, cultivate or encourage Incised Fumewort. Instead, plant natives in your garden!
UPCOMING 2024 EVENTS
Bi-weekly Vinecutting on the Bronx River
Sunday, March. 3, 2024 1 PM - 3 PM
Location is across the street from 219 Bronx River Rd., Yonkers. Take southbound Exit 10C of the Bronx River Parkway. Click here for map of location.
This is a populated urban area and parking is only available on the street.
Invasive Plant Management Workshop
Wednesday, March 20, 2024 8 AM - 12:30 PM
Click here for details and to register (required).
VineCutter Events
Click here for details about our regular vine cutting activities.
We supply tools and gloves to lend and training for newcomers.
