Eric W. Sanderson on the Historical Ecology of NYC
On March 20, nearly 300 guests attended The Memory of Water: Eric W. Sanderson and Daphne Lundi in Conversation, presented by Open House New York and the New York Botanical Garden.
Eric’s presentation explored how water shaped the historic landscape of New York, from the Ice Age millions of years ago that created Brooklyn’s hills and forged the Hudson River as glaciers melted, and how it continues to impact the city’s geography through sea level rise and storm-caused erosion. His talk revealed the profound connection between historic waterways and city blocks at highest risk of flooding, and that a fundamental change in the way we relate to nature—one that acknowledges and works with natural forces—is both the greatest challenge and greatest opportunity of our time.
Following the presentation, Eric spoke with urban planner and climate policymaker Daphne Lundi in a wide-ranging conversation touching on the centuries-long impact of urban planning decisions, creating the best green roof, NYC’s hidden wildlife, using art to explore complex concepts in unique ways, and the diverse ecological resources that truly make our land great.
For more about Eric’s research and forthcoming exhibitions and events produced by New York Botanical Garden’s Urban Conservation Department:
- Visit Welikia.org for more information on the historical ecology of your block, methods, and curriculum materials. The latest five borough data will be released on Earth Day, April 22, 2025.
- Explore and contribute your ideas for a greener future of New York City using Visionmaker, NYBG’s tool for ecological democracy. Visionmaker is currently being updated with new features—stay tuned!
- Sign up for the Urban Conservation monthly newsletter to stay informed about new projects and upcoming talks by Eric Sanderson: https://e.nybg.org/p/7T8J-VT/sign-up-for-urban-conservation-updates
This program was part of Water Works, a yearlong series exploring the city’s water systems and our connections to water. The series is produced with lead agency partner NYC Department of Environmental Protection and with support from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Top photo: Daphne Lundi and Eric Sanderson in conversation on March 20, 2025. Photo: Ben Helmer