After completing the BioBlitz in Brooklyn Bridge Park, we wanted to dig deeper into how plant species richness changes with foot traffic across three different zones. We focused on understanding why non-native plants dominated many areas of the park, and why native species became more common the farther we moved from heavy pedestrian activity. Even though our statistical test didn’t show a significant association between plant type and foot traffic, the patterns we observed still tell an important story.
What we want people to take away is that small differences in how people move through a park can shape the plant communities living there. These insights can help park managers and NYC communities think more intentionally about restoration, planting, and how to support healthier native ecosystems. The little things really do matter.
