Internships

Alliyah Gregory ’25

Major

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

Project Title

Plant Conservation in the Natural Areas of New York City Parks

Presentation Link

View Alliyah's Presentation

Certificate(s): Environmental Studies

I developed conservation assessments for two plant species of local conservation concern in New York City: Amelanchier nantucketensis (Nantucket juneberry) and Sanguisorba canadensis (Canadian burnet). To produce these conservation assessments, I researched basic information on their biology, habitat, and ecology, in addition to specific threats that these species face within New York City. I also researched methods that could be implemented to help save them. Conservation assessments are important because they provide a comprehensive resource for conservationists with all of the information they need to execute conservation measures. I also participated in fieldwork to monitor rare, threatened, and endangered species within the natural areas of New York City parks. This was insightful for me because I had no prior knowledge of conservation efforts in urban areas. I learned about the wide variety of ecosystems that exist in these areas, from forests, to beaches, to salt marshes. My time with NYC Parks cemented my interest in conservation and introduced me to fieldwork. I am now hoping to include these aspects in my future career.