Steeplechase in Spring

The latest group of Stewards of the Race Track Nature Preserve (RTNP) was honored last Saturday, June 4 with a bronze plaque by the steeplechase, followed by the Peony Garden Party at the Maxwells' house. Their generosity together with the donations of past (and future) Stewards are crucial for the restoration of the former horse racing track from an invasive species-infested dumping ground into an environmentally healthy community nature preserve for the benefit of Village residents and all flora and fauna.

Steeplechase Stewards Cole Harrell and Rowena Scherer by the Catalpa tree.

Residents in front of the only remaining horse jumping stone steeplechase.

The word steeplechase originated in Ireland in the 18th century when horse races were held from one village to another over fieldstone walls and rippling brooks with church steeples serving as the markers. Even though steeplechase races have not been held at the former race track for over eighty years, a competitive spirit was kept alive and well by the presence of our two Mayoral candidates: Marc D. Citrin (middle, left photo) and David C. McFadden (left, right photo.)

We are most grateful for the support of the Steeplechase Stewards (see plaque above.) They have since been joined by Stefanie Rinza & Carlton Hobbs and the McGrath Family.

Click Here for the Pictoral History of the Race Track Nature Preserve

Invasives and Natives News

Garlic Mustard (Invasive)

This is the invasive species that needs to be cut right now before it goes to seed and spreads. Do not put it on your compost heap - bag and bin it.

After many years of manual removal from the wooded Northern slopes at the RTNP a profusion of flowering native species (some of are featured below) is thriving.

Celandine Poppy (Native)

The Yellow Wood Poppy, Stylophorum diphyllum is a perennial plant native to woodland areas.

The natural leaf litter is important for the growth of this and many other woodland plants so do "leave the leaves" in the more natural areas of your garden as they are most beneficial as food, habitat and natural fertilizer.

Mayapple (Native)

Also known as American mandrake, and ground lemon, Podophyllum peltatum is sometimes referred to as the Umbrella plant due to the shape of the leaves. After blooming, the Mayapple flower produces a yellow apple-like fruit.

Replenishing Our Diminishing Tree Portfolio

Emerald Ash Borer and Wooly Adelgid have killed countless Ash and Hemlock trees, diminishing the supply of oxygen we breathe, increasing soil erosion, and depriving shade, food, and habit for wildlife. In response, the Tree Advisory Board has been busy planting trees on Village properties, not just for the aesthetics but for all the important benefits they bestow. Here is a great native tree you can plant on your own property as it does not grow too tall and smells divine!

Sweetbay Magnolia planted last autumn at the Village Office with help from Tuxedo Park School students and a grant from Tree City USA. Smell the flowers in bloom in early June!

Planting native trees at the Wee Wah Park with Tuxedo Park School students to celebrate Arbor Day on April 28.

Suggestions welcome and volunteers needed! Click here to visit our website www.tptreeboard.org or email us at tptreeboard@gmail.com