County Executive Robert P. Astorino and County Legislator Sheila Marcotte joined members of the New York State Turf and Landscape Association to break up and remove tree roots, tree limbs, vines and debris holding back the flow of the Bronx River as part of the county's annual "River Rescue" on Sunday, Oct. 20.

The Bronx River Conservancy's Vinecutters and SaveATree also joined in the effort to address flooding. Projects included cleanup along the Bronx River at Paxton Avenue in Bronxville; work along the shoreline between Leewood and Harney roads in Eastchester; the removal of a fallen tree from the river at the field near Elm Street in Tuckahoe; and the removal of invasive vines throughout the area.

"One of the questions I am asked very often is what can be done about flooding in our area, especially in communities along the Bronx River," Astorino said. "River Rescue isn't a cure-all for flooding, but it shows how small steps can make a difference. By volunteering for River Rescue, the Turf and Landscape Association, the Bronx River Conservancy's Vinecutters and SaveATree demonstrated their willingness to join forces with government to achieve an important goal."