DATED MATERIAL DO NOT DELAY Nonprofit Organization-Sierra Club U.S.Postage PAID The Jersey••••••••••• IERRANIERRAN Vol. 34, No. 1 SS 22,500 Members in New Jersey January-March 2005 Assessing the McGreevey Years By Jeff Tittel, Chapter Director With Governor on an environmental agenda. He picked “Center” designations in the Highlands mental laws, though we are still far McGreevey’s resig- up on many Sierra Club initiatives such and many others. Now we have a new below the levels of enforcement under nation, it is time to as Category One upgrades to waterways, Acting Governor, Richard Codey, with the Florio administration. McGreevey look back at his protection of the Highlands, and putting whom we have had a long relationship. cancelled Whitman’s Open Market record: what were enforcement back into the DEP. At the He has supported some of our environ- Emission Trading program that would his achievements, same time we fought him on permitting mental initiatives, but he has not been an have brought more air pollution into what were his fail- issues. Unfortunately, all his modest environmental leader, and we have New Jersey. He proposed a goal of 20% ures? The best way advances have been outweighed by the never endorsed him as a candidate for renewable energy by the year 2020. His to evaluate the last three years would be passage of Fast Track. The Sierra Club the State Senate. He supported establish- pilot program for recovering Natural in line with the Clint Eastwood movie, filed more lawsuits in McGreevey’s three ing an Environmental Prosecutor, Resource Damages is good, but should “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.” We years than in eight years of Whitman and expanding private well testing and he be even larger. His administration, under had endorsed Governor McGreevey and DiFrancesco -- for putting office build- was helpful in passing Clean Car legisla- Commissioner Brad Campbell, also worked closely with his administration ings on a park in Plainfield, approving tion. So for now we will wait and see, implemented the Sierra Club’s recom- and hope that he will fix Fast Track. The mended upgrading of major streams and first indications are not so hopeful. reservoirs to Category One status and The Good: Governor McGreevey adopting strong Stormwater Can Petty’s Island be Saved? ended the Liberty State Park Management Rules that establish 300 Development Corporation’s prolonged foot buffers around these C-1’s. He also By Gina Carola, our Delaware River Issues Coordinator (and much more!) attempts to build golf courses and water- stopped the Millstone Bypass. His n the Delaware River, just off the Petty’s Island. So, despite of a grass-roots parks. We saw a doubling of enforce- Transfer of Developments Rights Law south end of Pennsauken’s riverfront effort to get the DEP to accept CITCO’s ment efforts against violators of environ- (Continued on page 5) Iand Camden’s north end, sits Petty’s generous offer, Pennsauken Township Island, 392 acres that are home to CITCO has initiated condemnation proceedings Petroleum with its refinery equipment in an effort to force CITCO to sell the and petro-chemical tanks. Strangely, for island and go away. The developers are Going Into 2005, Politically the past couple of years, it has also been not happy being allowed to By Richard Isaac, Chapter Political Chair home to a pair of nesting bald eagles. develop just the riverfront. They want Why this pair of eagles prefers to be the island too. Although the envi- called “Smart Growth Ombudsman” urban dwellers rather than to nest in CITCO is promising a fight to follow ronment wasn’t a established by the Fast-Track Act. The the more southern and rural reaches of through on plans to clean up the island major issue in the State needs to restore the office of Public the Delaware Estuary is not known. and turn it into a wildlife refuge. 2004 presidential Advocate, and the Chapter will be asking Perhaps it is just because we now have As this issue of the Sierran goes to campaign, the Sierra candidates whether they agree. more than 25 nesting pairs of bald press, here is what has happened so far: Club is committed to eagles in South Jersey and the newcom- • In the spring of 2004, CITCO making it part of the 3. CLEAN AIR: A3182/S1759 ers had to find their own territory. announced plans to establish a wildlife State’s 2005 guberna- The harmful exhaust from diesel-pow- Perhaps it is because in recent years the preserve on Petty’s Island. This prompt- torial and legislative election campaigns. ered trucks, buses and cars contains improvement in water quality and ed various environmental and citizens By the time this newsletter reaches you, more than 40 known and probable car- the addition of a fish ladder on the groups to send letters, emails and faxes, our Chapter will have sent out question- cinogens, plus particulate matter com- Cooper River, which is a tributary to including a Sierra Club Action Alert, to naires to gubernatorial candidates on the monly known as soot. These substances the Delaware running through Camden, the DEP encouraging acceptance of the issues below, which constitute a legisla- are believed to cause as many premature has increased the food supply for the CITCO offer. tive “wish-list.” We will follow up in the deaths every year as motor vehicle acci- eagles. Perhaps it is because two other • On September 30, 2004, a hearing Spring with similar questionnaires to can- dents and shootings. The DEP estimates pairs of eagles claim the territory was held in Camden at which CITCO didates for the State Senate and Assembly. that reducing diesel emissions can save a little north on Burlington Island and a presented a proposal to The Natural The Chapter’s Political Committee will do 370 New Jerseyans from premature little south along Mantua Creek. Lands Trust, an advisory arm of the everything it can to stay on message. And death and prevent 16,000 asthma attacks No matter what the reason, these eagles DEP. Citizens’ comments were all in here is that message: every year. are comfortable living on the wooded favor of accepting the CITCO offer. Of The diesel emissions bill would require end of the island that is not used by the the eight members on the Board of 1. REPEAL FAST-TTRACK: A3008/S1368 the retrofitting of diesel vehicles with refinery. They can often be seen Directors for the Trust, five voted to On July 2, 2004, with little or no press, cleaner filters and exhaust devices. It cruising along the Delaware River and up accept, and three voted ex-Gov. McGreevey signed the Fast-Track would also mandate of the sale of only along the Cooper River and Newton against. However, the Board is made up Act into law. It established a “Smart ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel. While the bill is Creek as they fish. of five citizen members and three state Growth” Ombudsman whose role is to a step in the right direction, in its current Eagles aren’t the only inhabitants of officials, and at least one of the state offi- lobby on behalf of developers in so- form it would reduce fine particulate this urban refuge for wildlife. It is cials must vote yes. So, despite the called “smart growth” areas. The diesel emissions only by 2.2% (20% reduc- also home for a heron rookery (nesting majority vote in favor of preserving the ombudsman can over-ride rules and regu- tion for targeted engines: only 11% of all sites), and a host of other wildlife island, the motion failed because none lations from all state agencies, and expe- diesel engines). The Chapter will be ask- species, as well as wetlands. of the votes in favor of the plan were dite the state agency (DEP, DCA, DOT) ing candidates to support a larger reduc- That is why CITCO has offered to clean cast by the state officials. permit approval process for new devel- tion in fine particulate diesel emissions. up the contamination on the island • On October 30, volunteers fanned opment in areas designated for growth in and donate the land to The Natural Lands out in Pennsauken Township armed the State Plan. 4. FAMILY PLANNING/POPULATION: Trust, which is an entity in, but not of, with 11,000 copies of a fact sheet put As the worst environmental bill in S556 NJDEP. The Trust would hold the conser- together by Delaware Riverkeeper. Their decades, the act was opposed by all the New Jersey is the most densely popu- vation easement. CITCO will complete a goal was to deliver one to every resi- state’s environmental organizations, and (Continued on page 5) full and comprehensive environmental dence in the township. is currently being challenged in court. So cleanup of the island and has generously • Attempts are now underway to con- the Chapter will be asking candidates if offered to establish a wildlife stewardship vince the US Fish and Wildlife Service they support repeal of this Law. NSIDE THIS ISSUE... and restoration fund. (FWS) to accept the CITCO offer. FWS’s I Unfortunately, NJDEP has caved to New Jersey field office has supported 2. RESTORATION OF THE PUBLIC Pinelands Issues Report ...... 2 pressure from developers and put CITCO’s proposal to turn over the land to ADVOCATE: A1424/S541 Population Issues Report...... 2 pressure on the Trust to reject the offer the state, but its regional office says that Abolished by former Gov. Whitman, Resolutions Passed by the Chapter from CITCO. The reason is that the island Petty’s Island does not have high enough the Department of the Public Advocate Executive Committee ...... 2 is actually part of the Township of biological value, despite the eagles’ nest was once in the Executive Branch, with Election Aftermath...... 2 Editorial: Wal-Mart Zoning ...... 3 Pennsauken. The township is hoping to and a heron breeding area, to be made several divisions and offices, including Vice-Chair’s Message: The Morning After ...... 3 ride the wave of riverfront development into a federal refuge. the Division of Public Interest Advocacy. Editorial Cartoon: Buildout in New Jersey...... 3 that is helping to spur economic growth What can you do to help save Petty’s The new legislation would create some Who’s Protecting the Pinelands Forests? ...... 4 in the City of Camden immediately to the Island? new advocacy functions, such as the Book Review: Six Modern Plagues and south. Developers are chomping at the Write to your House Rep, Senator Office of Environmental Advocacy. The How We Are Causing Them ...... 4 bit to develop the Pennsauken riverfront Club Heroes Honored at Corzine and DEP Commisioner Brad Environmental Advocate would work Annual Awards Ceremony ...... 6 by building high-priced houses, condos, Campbell. Tell them to save Petty’s Island with citizens and citizen groups on envi- Group News...... 7-10 retail areas, a hotel conference center and make it into a showplace wildlife ronmental issues and advocate for them Outings ...... 10-12 and a golf course. Unfortunately for the refuge for enjoyment by residents and with governmental agencies – possibly Membership Form...... 12 eagles the deal includes development of wildlife for generations to come. K acting as a counter-balance to the so- QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF THE NEW JERSEY CHAPTER OF THE SIERRA CLUB -- CHAPTER WEBSITE: NJSIERRA.ORG 2 The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 PINELANDS ISSUES REPORT: Resolutions Passed by the Pine Snakes in the Pines Chapter Executive Committee By Michael Gallaway, Chapter liaison to the Pinelands Preservation Alliance in September, October and Remember the “Sanctuary” development finding the settlement will protect the pine in Evesham, Burlington County, which snakes, and (e) by a litigation settlement, turned out to be home to one of the state’s so the Commission can do an end-run November: few surviving timber rattlesnake popula- around its own legal and procedural regula- We resolved to support the preserva- us in a challenge to the proposed tions? Remember that the Pinelands tions for normal development reviews. tion of a 40-aacre tract at Seton Hall Xanadu project in the Hackensack Commission settled with the developer and The predictable result? Pine snakes will Preparatory School in West Orange, Essex Meadowlands, Hudson County. (Oct) allowed him to keep building all around the be killed and harassed. This scenario is County, known as the Governor George We opposed the proposed develop- rattlesnakes’ hibernation dens? Remember confirmed by a study the Commission Brinton McClellan Estate. This tract con- ment of Intrawest Village, 2000 housing that soon after the rattlesnake deal was cut, just completed of the rattlesnakes at the tains at least 50 trees aged 100 years or units and 500,000 square feet of com- government biologists happened upon a site – a study it only undertook after it more, an arboretum of rare trees at record mercial and retail space, in Vernon Twp, dead pine snake run over by a car on one of approved development of the snakes’ size, and rare wildlife, including red fox, Sussex County, by authorizing the the new roads, and then a nest with a habitats. That study found, among other hawks, eagles and owls. Seton Hall Prep Rutgers and/or Columbia Environmental female and a clutch of eggs on land that things, that snake-proof fences don’t plans to clear-cut the entire property to Law Clinics to initiate proceedings. The was slated for development? Because they work and that two out of nine rat- build a parking lot and bleachers for 1500 proposal threatens endangered species are designated as a “threatened” species, tlesnakes the scientists radio-tracked people, baseball fields, tennis courts and of bitterns, owls, rails and wood turtles, pine snake habitat is supposed to be pro- were killed by people during the study practice fields. (Sept) and includes injection of 300,000 gal- tected from “irreversible adverse impacts” period. Not surprisingly, neither killing We asked the New Jersey Department lons/day of treated sewage into a lime- by the Pinelands regulations. Well now it was reported to the government. We of Environmental Protection to oppose stone aquifer. (Oct) really is deva vu all over again, as the only know because the snakes had radio- the Christ Church Development at 140 We agreed to fight the development of Pinelands Commission has announced transmitters implanted under their skin, Green Pond Road, Rockaway Town, Hopatcong Village Grande, on the Gallo another settlement with the developer, so scientists found their corpses. Morris County. Objections include its Tract in Hopatcong Borough, Sussex once again allowing him to proceed with The Pinelands Preservation Alliance, location in the Highlands Core County, on 294 acres of Highland Forest building all over the pine snakes’ upland New Jersey Audubon Society and Natural Preservation Zone, its need for new containing four threatened and endan- habitats in exchange for leaving two (2) lots Resources Defense Council have been sewage treatment capacity, poor site gered species. The proposal violates undeveloped where the nest was found. fighting the Pinelands Commission and drainage, and the proposed cutting of Hopatcong’s Master Plan, and would Once again, the Pinelands Commission is developer over the destruction of threat- trees that house an endangered species impact the Musconetcong Candidate proceeding to settle with the developer (a) ened and endangered species habitat at of bats. (Oct) Wild & Scenic River. Rutgers without having conducted any study of the the Sanctuary for the past six years and We retained the Columbia Environmental Law Clinic has agreed to pine snake population or its needs, (b) expect to mount a legal challenge again if Environmental Law Clinic to represent take the case. (Oct) K without protecting the critical foraging the Commission approves the proposed area of the pine snake population, (c) pine snake settlement. Contact the knowing full well that the pine snakes will Pinelands Commission at 609-894-7300 or continue trying to use their established for- www.state.nj.us/pinelands/ if you’d like Election Aftermath: aging habitats even as people and their to urge them to follow their own regula- cars take it over, (d) without any scientists tions and protect the snakes. K Reactions to John Kerry’s POPULATION ISSUES REPORT: loss to George W. Bush: Environmental Activist Wins From Greg Tondi, NJ Sierra Club We are not going to give up the fight. Liaison to the Kerry Campaign We are going to focus on what is impor- The fight is far from over. Now, more tant to us and work to make sure it hap- 2004 Nobel Peace Prize than ever, the environment needs our pens. We are going to follow the news, By Bonnie Tillery, our Population Issues Coordinator help. We need to let this administration track bills in Congress, and pressure know that we are not walking away from our representatives to do what is right. The broad, bright smile and colorful In an interview protecting this beautiful planet that we If we did nothing before, we will write African robes belie the difficult years expe- on NPR, Maathai treasure so much. One of the ways that letters now. If we wrote letters before, rienced by Kenyan Wangari Maathai said that the poor we can help is to let our congressmen we will make phone calls now. We will before she became the first environmen- are over-mining the and senators know that we are here for meet with them if we have to. Above talist and first woman from Africa to be environment to try the environment. We are fortunate to live all, we will not give up. We will not let awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. She was to maintain their in a state which has many pro-environ- hatred and anger consume us. We are beaten, jailed and at one point forced to lives and the rich are over-consuming. ment politicians, but they still need to used to losing. We learn from it. And leave her homeland; but she persevered, Her life’s work has revolved around get- hear that we support them on the issues. when we win, the victory means that and as a professor of zoology campaigned ting people to cooperate in order to sus- From Sunil Somalwar, Chapter Chair: much more. against forest clearing, eventually winning tain the planet. What now? We can count on the From Dick Colby, Newsletter Editor: a seat in Parliament and being appointed Green Belt members are re-learning Cheney/Bush team to strive for the worst, I take bizarre comfort in regarding deputy minister for the environment. the knowledge of their ancestors: planti- but ideological blindness is the biggest Bush’s re-election not as a Republican Why recognize an environmentalist? In ng indigenous crops, using organic chink in their armor. I expect better pay- or neo-conservative victory, nor as a Maathai’s own words, “The everyday methods, and providing food for their offs for our efforts now because there measure of the realignment of national fight for survival of those who depend families from kitchen gardens. Through won’t be another September 11th values or policies, but rather as a mere directly on natural resources – forests, paid employment for planting trees, for Bush/Cheney to cash in. Who knows referendum on “cuddliness.” The water, minerals – for their livelihoods is women are able to better care for their how the next four years will be, but I am London Economist remarked that both at the heart of the battle for peace and children and provide for their future. optimistic that they won’t be as tough as candidates were fundamentally flawed: human security. When natural resources Recognizing that a sustainable planet the last four years. Bush as incompetent and Kerry as get scarce, wars are started. If we includes a sustainable population, the From Laura Lynch, Chapter incoherent. I see no reason why envi- improve the management of our natural Green Belt Movement works with Conservation Chair: ronmental candidates can’t and won’t resources, we help promote peace.” women’s organizations to find solutions to “So take that look out of here succeed in 2006 and 2008. We just The road to this honor began in 1977 poverty, HIV/AIDS, orphans and food inse- It doesn’t fit you need to find some that exude the when Maathai planted seven trees in her curity. They “assist, especially young girls Just ‘cause it’s happened parental warmth and caring of a garden in honor of Kenyan female environ- and women, to face the challenges of doesn’t mean you’ve been discarded Clinton, a Reagan, or a Carter. Going mentalists. She eventually formed the Green growing up, making complex decisions Pull up your head off the floor to Church is probably part of it. But Belt Movement and today in Kenya there about their sexual and reproductive Come up screaming such people are EXTREMELY RARE, are approximately 10,000 women who health, and gaining knowledge and skills Cry out for everything you ever might even among elected officials. It amazes have jobs through that Movement, and have to protect themselves from HIV and AIDS.” have wanted” me that there are so few of them in planted an estimated 30 million trees to The head of the Nobel Committee said, —Big Country, ©EMI Music Ltd, with our population of 190 million. We help combat deforestation. Between British “Peace on earth depends on our ability to permission should start looking now! K colonialists and Kenyan farmers, as well as secure our living environment.” To the previous corrupt regime of President which Maathai adds, “In managing our Daniel arap Moi, an estimated 75% of the resources…we plant the seeds of peace, HOLD THE DATE!!! forests were cleared in the last 150 years. both now and in the future.” K ENERGY CAMPAIGN TRAINING ACADEMY Women in Kenyan villages also needed to gather firewood to cook meals for their fam- Bonnie can be contacted at 609-259- FEBRUARY 4-6, 2005 ilies. This has left only 2% of Kenya with 6438, or via e-mail at [email protected]. The Sierra Club’s Northeast Regional Conservation Committee, in cooperation forested land. Maathai wanted to curtail She is to be congratulated for recent with the Club’s Global Warming and Energy Team, and the Campaign Training deforestation and desertification and pro- appointment to the the Sierra Club’s Academy, is providing a special opportunity for northeast energy activists. On duce sustainable wood for fuel use as well NATIONAL Committee on Global February 4-6, 2005, there will be a weekend Training Academy session, focused on as combat soil erosion. Population and the Environment. energy issues.This is the perfect opportunity to gain skills in analyzing energy pol- icy AND in running a successful campaign.AND to have fun doing it. FOR SALE - HARDYSTON,NEW JERSEY Sell 26 acres with 4 bedroom 2 bath mother /daughter house. Scenic and private with The Training will be held at the Alton Jones Center in Providence, Rhode Island. year round beautiful vistas. Property is farm assesed and is in a no growth area. Property fronts a year round stream and also fronts a rails to trails hiking trail $379.000 For more information contact: Joan Denzer 973-209-7643 [email protected]

Thanks to all who gave year-end donations, and encouragement to all those who are still thinking about it. The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 3 Vice-Chair’s Message The Morning After by Ken Johanson, Chapter Vice-Chair ([email protected])

It’s the morning after. I’m sitting in front of my computer, bleary-eyed and dejected, trying to make some sense out of it all. I must admit that I was one of those who truly believed that John Kerry Messages of doom and gloom do not was going to pull this one off. After all, work. Nor do warnings of environmental how could the American people return a threats that people do not view as hav- man to office who, during his first term, ing a direct impact on their already launched an unprecedented assault on stressful lives and over which they feel our natural environment, committed us they have little or no control. Yes, we to a senseless and perhaps unwinable need to educate people about threats to war, trashed our economy, severely the environment and the anti-environ- restricted our personal liberties, failed to mental policies of the Bush administra- deal effectively with threats to our tion. But we need to present the mes- national security, destroyed our standing sage in a manageable form, a form that and prestige in the world community people can digest and deal with without and slashed benefits to the poor and dis- feeling overwhelmed. We also need to advantaged? Well, they did. be able to demonstrate to people that So what are we going to do about it? our concerns are their concerns, that the One option is to roll over and admit conditions that concern us will have a defeat. I reject this option. We need to direct impact on their health and their keep fighting for the things in which we personal well-being. But above all, we believe. But we also need to learn how need to show them that there is hope, to become more effective in getting our that we are in fact capable of bringing message across. To do this we need to fig- about meaningful change. ure out what it is about Bush and his The next four years will not be easy. administration that so many people find While I am confident that we will contin- attractive. I think part of the answer lies ue to achieve significant victories at the in the fact that Americans today are feel- state and local levels, the fact that the ing anxious and overwhelmed. Bush tells Bush administration controls all three them that he will take care of them and branches of the federal government that everything will be all right. They means that victories at the national level desperately want to believe this, so they may be few and far between. But that do. Then we come along and tell them does not make the victories that we are Editorial the sky is falling and that we are headed able to achieve any less important. We toward a global cataclysm. Well, we need to celebrate our victories. We need probably are, but this is not what people to let the country and the world know Wal-Mart Zoning are prepared to hear. They already feel that positive change is possible, that we anxious and overwhelmed, so their self- are not about to roll over and admit by Dick Colby ([email protected]) defensive mechanisms kick in and they defeat. And we need to fortify our filter out and ignore information about resolve and renew our commitment to t’s as much a sociological as an envi- environmental threats and concerns that the environmental cause by reminding ronmental issue in New Jersey, but can only heighten their level of anxiety ourselves that, yes, in spite of it all, we Ieither way we lose quality of life. and unease. are making a difference. K Consider the destruction that Wal-Mart proliferation is wreaking on our older shopping malls could be made to require (non-suburban) communities. Wearing the collective approvals of all municipali- ADDITIONAL COMMENTARY ON one of my other hats, as a Planning Board ties that are affected: say all within 20 Chairman (Egg Harbor City, Atlantic miles. Perhaps protections should be THE NOVEMBER 2004 PRESIDENTAL County), I’ve watched in dismay as many provided to all historic shopping dis- of the store-fronts on our shopping street tricts, regardless of whether they have ELECTION OUTCOME, IS ON PAGE 2. have gone belly-up; I’m sure the same status as Historic Districts. Or, if we sup- thing happening in many other older, port agricultural subsidies, perhaps we walkable communities. should provide small business subsidies, $50 Discount for I suggest that the threat to the paid for by taxes on big businesses. Walk Britain’s American way of life is quite analogous The other approach is for use in com- Sierra Club Members to that experienced during the Gilded munities that WANT development at the Age (1870-1900, roughly), when robber expense of the environment: we need to Most Beautiful Landscapes. barons in the oil, steel, railroad and be able to use the environmental protec- banking industries gained monopolistic tions afforded to wetlands, farmlands, Join English Lakeland Ramblers, specialists since 1985 in power, and had to be subdued by the threatened species, habitat corridors, interventions of the anti-trust laws and stormwater discharge pathways, and other guided tours of England’s spectacular Lake District. Walk with other reforms of the Progressive Era environmental criteria. There need to be us along the hills and dales of England’s largest national park. (1900-1914, roughly). hotlines and response teams, empowered Wal-Mart is a modern robber baron, to issue cease & desist orders. unjustly exploiting the free market system I have specific information about a TOURS ALSO IN SCOTLAND & THE COTSWOLDS just as John D. Rockefeller did in the proposed Wal-Mart on Old Tilton and 1890s. The question is what to do about it. Fire Roads in Egg Harbor Twp, Atlantic ENGLISH LAKELAND RAMBLERS There are two approaches, depending on County. The site is a former executive For a free brochure: whether the Environmental Commission, complex of Atlantic Electric, which took the Planning Board and the citizenry are care to retain groves of large 100-year- 18 Stuyvesant Oval #1A, New York, NY 10009 hostile or favorable to the development, old trees when originally developing the (800) 724-8801 • www.ramblers.com and ratables, that come in a “big box.” site. The land is currently owned by a I think that even a big-box-hostile developer; Wal-Mart has not yet pur- Planning Board needs new tools to cope chased it, but they have preliminary Yet another Wal-Mart battle is being it here: All 13 of New Jersey’s incumbent with the pathology of a Wal-Mart. We approval from the local planning board, fought in Salem County: over a proposed Congressmen won easy re-election on need to gather our allies in the Smart including clearcutting the site. super Wal-Mart at the intersection of Nov. 2, demonstrating the power of Growth organizations (such as New In addition, our Central Jersey Group is Route 49 and Lighthouse Road (near the incumbency, as well in some cases as the Jersey Future and the New Jersey part of a local coalition fighting a Wal-Mart Delaware Memorial Bridge). It’s adjacent effect of the redistricting that took place Chapter of the American Planning at the southern end of Lawrence to Supawna National Wildlife Refuge. after the 2000 census. So our attempt to Association), and approach our allies in Township, Mercer County. While Officials from ANJEC (the Association of unseat the Member with the worst envi- the Legislature, to get the Municipal Lawrence would get the tax benefit, neigh- New Jersey Environmental Commissions ronmental record, Scott Garrett (R, 5th Land Use Law (MLUL) amended: boring Ewing and Trenton would get the (www.anjec.org)) are helping gather a District), was hopelessly unsuccessful. Perhaps designated Historic Districts traffic and the dead family-run businesses. response to some wetlands delineations. The most we can hope is that our per- could be given the additional protection LET’s Stop Wal-Mart is a coalition of resi- Our Fred Akers has been monitoring that suasive lobbying will eventually con- of a 20-mile Wal-Mart-free radius. dents and union representatives from case for the Sierra Club. I’m informed vince him of the errors of his ways, or Perhaps “disrupting the social fabric” Lawrence, Ewing, and Trenton (hence the that Wal-Mart has plans to open 47 new that scandal or retirement will do what could be written into the MLUL as a cri- “LET”). Laura Lynch, our Chapter stores in New Jersey. non-endorsement failed to do. terion for a Planning Board to reject an Conservation Chair, can be contacted for Election outcome: Since it isn’t men- I had help from Laura Lynch and application. Perhaps applications for more information about that project. tioned elsewhere in this newsletter, read Fred Akers in writing this piece. K Is there an environmental issue that we’re MISSING? If so, please call or write to Club officers. 4 The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005

Who’s protecting the BOOK REVIEW: Pinelands Forests? Six Modern Plagues and How By: Fred Akers, Conservation Chair of the South Jersey Group, We Are Causing Them Book by Mark Jerome Walters, published by Island Press and ATV Issues Coordinator Review by Harold Rapp I used to think that the Pinelands would not be farmed Protection Act, the Pinelands because of poor soil Diseases once thought to be dormant USA the spread of Commission, and the Pinelands types. With respect to traditional farming, are now rampant again. Other diseases suburbia has put Comprehensive Management Plan had by 1980 most high yield lands were that were once geographically contained deer in close proximity to humans. the protection of the forest and all the already cleared and under cultivation. have now spread across the continents. When there is abundant rainfall and food, threatened and endangered species But times change, and today agricultur- Once-effective antibiotics have lost their mouse numbers increase. The chances of which live in the Pineland forests pretty al production is moving away from soil- potency. In this book the author being bitten by a Lyme disease-harboring much covered. I recently found out that related food production to “non-soil” explains the basis for these occurrences. tick are greatly magnified. this is not really the case. In October the crops like hydroponic vegetables, fish and In several cases the environmental Hantavirus is another mouse-borne Pinelands Commission rezoned 87 acres shrimp, and non-edible crops, like archi- changes wrought by mankind have had disease agent that becomes more preva- from Pinelands Forest Area to Agricultural tectural trees, bushes, flowers and shrubs, profound effects. lent under these conditions. Parts of our Production Area in a federally designated house plants, and sod. Unlike soil-grown The diseases discussed in the book southwest have been receiving more Scenic and Recreational portion of the food crops that traditionally required “in actually number seven and include Mad rainfall than normal. It is theorized that Great Egg Harbor River watershed — place” soil conservation, and that may Cow Disease, HIV/AIDS, Salmonella the increased rainfall may be one of the with absolutely no concern for the barred have played a significant role in the con- DT104, Lyme disease, Hantavirus, West consequences of global warming. owl and Pine Barrens tree frogs known to servation of the essential ecological char- Nile Virus and Sudden Acute Respiratory In a world where intercontinental frequent that forested acreage. acter of the Pinelands, these new forms of Syndrome (SARS). travel is commonplace it should be When I inquired about this, I discov- agriculture may significantly change the Mad Cow Disease is spread by the expected that diseases would not be ered that agricultural activities are auto- ecology of the Pinelands. practice of incorporating contaminated geographically contained. Even without matically allowed in all Pinelands Forest The way the rules stand now, forests animal byproducts into feed for normally human travel the West Nile Virus is car- Areas with no permits required. In other can be converted to paved surfaces for -vegetarian farm animals. The effects of ried by migratory birds. Global warming words, if you own woods and you are a greenhouses and potted plants, with no this practice are exacerbated by modern has expanded the range of mosquitoes certified farmer, you can cut down any permits required for additional water animal husbandry practices that include that harbor the virus. and all trees anytime you want to farm withdrawals, or stormwater manage- overcrowding and the creation of What got the SARS virus started? It that land with no questions asked. You ment. Natural topsoil can be removed lagoons for animal waste. undoubtedly had an animal origin and can also purchase land in the Pinelands and exported as root balls, soil filled Many Africans consume quantities of was transmitted to humans. In China’s Forest Area to harvest the trees, but you plant pots, and cut and rolled sod. New bushmeat, the meat of monkeys and other Guangdong Province where the virus need a permit and must comply with chemicals for fertilization and pest con- forest species, some of which are endan- first appeared, pigs often share their many Pinelands Commission regulations. trol, to manage these new crops, can be gered. Sanitary conditions for handling homes with humans, and sometimes There are goals and objectives for the introduced. Such new agricultural uses these meats leave much to be desired. Thus chickens are housed above the pigs. management of both the Forest Areas are becoming highly coveted ratables at it is likely that HIV/AIDS passed from mem- Other examples of human-animal inter- and the Agricultural Production Areas an astounding scale in Cumberland bers of the animal kingdom to humans. action are common. It is interesting stated in the Pinelands Comprehensive County, and it is just a matter of time It is well known that if antibiotics are that the Chinese government sup- Management Plan (CMP - Subchapter before “Right-To-Farm” laws will bring overused the organisms that are con- pressed reports about SARS until its 5). The purpose of the Forest Areas is to, them into the Pinelands Forest Areas. trolled by the antibiotics can become spread greatly expanded and many lives “support characteristic Pinelands plant Forests are of significant ecological antibiotic-resistant. A strain of Salmonella were lost. and animal species and provide suitable value to all watersheds, but we won’t bacteria has evolved resistance as a This book reveals the important role habitat for many threatened and endan- find these values on the agricultural bal- result of the use of antibiotics to speed that the environment plays in diseases gered species. These largely undevel- ance sheet. The network of rivers, lakes the growth of farm animals. Regulatory that suddenly become rampant. When oped areas are an essential element of and streams throughout the Pinelands authorities are loathe to restrict this Sierrans discuss the environment they the Pinelands environment, contain high originates from a myriad of small undesirable farm practice because the should be aware of the critical role that quality water resources and wetlands, streams and wetlands, many so small manufacturers of the antibiotics exert environmental factors exert on the and are very sensitive to random and they do not appear on any map. Yet great pressure on our lawmakers. emergence and expansion of disease. uncontrolled development”. these headwater streams and wetlands A combination of large numbers of Harold Rapp is a retired food scien- But the CMP also states that, “agricul- exert critical influences on the character mice and deer are favorable to the tist. He lives in Ewing and may be con- tural activity is an important element of and quality of downstream waters. The spread of Lyme disease. In the eastern tacted at [email protected] K the Pinelands economy and plays a sig- natural processes that occur in such nificant role in the conservation of the headwater systems benefit humans by essential ecological character of the mitigating flooding, maintaining water Pinelands.” Also, “the long-term viability quality and quantity, recycling nutrients, More Photos of This Year’s of agricultural activity depends upon the and providing habitat for plants and ani- protection from competing land uses mals. Most of these small streams and and continued use of agricultural prac- wetlands occur in forested areas, both in Chapter Honorees tices that conserve the soil and water the Pinelands Forest Areas in the resources of the Pinelands”. Now given Pinelands Protection Area. that Agriculture is an approved use in As I monitor and assess the condition (Story on page 6) the Forest Area, it appears to me that and quality of the Pineland headwaters strict interpretation or compliance with of the Great Egg Harbor Watershed, I the CMP categorizes forest land use as a have found significant water quality competing land use to agriculture, and degradation from traditional agricultural therefore the values attributed to forest operations — in some locations — and uses as previously stated, such as species good stewardship in others. I have habitat, may be sacrificed for most agri- observed tons of farm soil directly dis- cultural operations. In other words, from charging into Pinelands waters, impair- the very beginning of Pinelands protec- ing water quality, and I have watched tion, in 1980, it has been more important cows and horses wallowing directly in to maintain and expand agriculture, than ground water springs that then flow into to preserve forest. fishing ponds and lakes. I know residents Once the land has been put to agricul- who have to treat their drinking water tural uses, does the Pinelands for high nitrate concentrations from Commission have any say about how the nearby agricultural activities. And I also land is to be managed? The answer is know traditional farmers who are exem- no, because all management of agricul- plary in their conservation and manage- Senator Ellen Karcher (D, 12th District) receives award from Sunil Somalwar ture is outsourced to the New Jersey ment practices. and Jeff Tittel. Photograph by Greg More. Department of Agriculture, the Soil But just like threatened and endan- Conservation District, and Rutgers gered species and their habitats, tradi- University. For all management areas in tional farming practices and the woods the Pinelands, including the Forest Area, that surround them are becoming a it is up to these agencies to set the agri- diminished resource. Urbanization and cultural standards for conservation of sprawl are constantly on the increase, the soil and water resources and their and here in southern New Jersey farms essential ecological character, not the are in transition from local food produc- Pinelands Commission. Voluntary com- tion to the mass production of ornamen- pliance and the “Right-To-Farm becomes tal plants demanded by residential and the law of the land. This was the agricul- commercial developments both locally tural deal established in 1980, and forest and across the country. habitat protection isn’t part of it. This shifting in the purpose of agricul- Perhaps back then the vision of farm- ture and the resulting disconnect with ing was one of plowing the soil and the Pinelands soils threatens soil and planting crops for food, with the soil water resources as well as the essential types dictating to a large degree which ecological character of the Senator Tom Kean Jr. (R, 21st District) receives award from Sunil Somalwar and forests would be farmed and which Pinelands. K Jeff Tittel. Photograph by Greg More.

A variety of Club books, notecards, badges and clothing is available from www.sierraclub.org/store The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 5

Campbell settled a lawsuit challenging Electronic waste (e.g., computers, tele- MCGREEVEY GOING INTO visions, telephones, photocopiers) con- (Continued from page 1) Shinn's denial -- by allowing Hovnanian to build 2430 units, almost three times 2005 tains lead, mercury, chromium, cadmi- will help direct growth away from envi- the number originally denied. The US (Continued from page 1) um, polyvinyl chloride, mixed plastics, ronmentally sensitive lands. His adminis- Fish and Wildlife Service has been work- beryllium, brominated flame-retardants tration's referendum to bond $150 mil- ing to protect this tract which is partially lated state, with well over 1,000 people and other hazardous substances, and lion for open space acquisitions and pas- within the Pinelands Preservation Area. per square mile — more than twice that therefore poses a threat to human health sage of the Highlands Water Protection The EPA has also raised concerns about of China. Already we must “import” and the environment if improperly dis- and Planning Act will help limit or stop extending sewers into an area with most of our food and energy, and we posed. Less than ten percent of discarded development on approximately 150,000 endangered species and wetlands. have shortages of potable water. Most electronic equipment is currently recy- acres in the Highlands. In 1999, then-Governor Whitman nom- health insurers provide prescription cov- cled. Roughly forty percent of the heavy The Bad: Governor McGreevey could inated the Standard Chlorine site in erage for Viagra, but not for contracep- metals in solid waste landfills come from have strengthened the Highlands Act by Kearny for the Superfund list, to give it a tives — even though the Health electronic discards. better protecting the 400,000-acre higher priority for cleanup since it is Insurance Association of America esti- This Bill would shift the financial "Planning Area," much of which is now next to the Hackensack River. In 2003 mates that adding such coverage would responsibility for the collection and recy- subject to Fast Track. (The Highlands the EPA put it on the list. In 2004 cost each enrolee less than $1.50 a cling of discarded electronic waste from Act establishes a core Preservation Area McGreevey and Campbell asked the EPA month. S556 would fix this defficiency. the taxpayers to the manufacturers of that sadly excludes some of the most to REMOVE it from the list. As a electronic equipment. valuable properties, such as the Superfund site, the responsible party 5. BUILDOUT ANALYSES: A1683/S444 Musconetcong Valley. The map was ger- would have to spend over $70 million These bills would require municipalites 9. The CAFRA LOOPHOLE: A775/S453 rymandered to benefit large develop- for cleanup. By removing from the list, it to include a buildout analysis in the The Coastal Area Facility Review Act ments such as Milligan Farm, owned by could be capped for under $4 million required six-yearly reexaminations of fails to regulate residential projects of 24 Hovnanian, and Windy Acres, owned by and redeveloped as an industrial site for their master plans. Such a tool would units or fewer, and commercial projects Pulte. Of 60 major problematic develop- a politically connected developer. offer citizens a clearer vision of growth with 49 parking spaces or fewer, unless ments underway in the Highlands, 54 Encap is a proposed development in capacities (or lack of it) and would direct located within 150 feet of tidal waters, a have been left out of the Preservation Lyndhurst for a golf course and 2000 development so as to prevent beach or a dune. Area, were grandfathered, or have been units of housing on top of a landfill. sprawl. (New Jersey is likely to be the Many legislators think that this loop- given exemptions.) With respect to C-11 Without a cleanup plan it may put thou- first state in the nation to reach buildout.) hole was closed but, unfortunately, it still upgrades, McGreevey added only 30 of sands of residents in harm's way. Worse: exists and continues to be used to harm the 300 waterways we proposed, the proposed cap would consist of cont- 6. WATER FEES: A1475/A2342/S192 sensitive coastal areas with over-develop- excluding the Wallkill and Ramapo aminated dredge spoils from Newark Bay New Jersey continues to experience ment. This State needs public officials Rivers and all the streams along the containing high levels of dioxin. Even deterioration of its water resources – willing to close the CAFRA loophole. Delaware Bayshore. Also, the rules to worse: on top of the cap will be con- resources that must be held in trust for implement the C-1 program -- regulating struction debris that may include future generations. 10. STEWARDSHIP OF PRESERVED septic, water quality planning, stream asbestos, arsenic, and even PCB's. Yet These bills would establish a Trust LANDS: OPPOSING A2923, A559 encroachment and other concerns -- worse: on top of that will be sewage Fund, sustained by user fees on water -- to Realizing the importance of preserving were never formulated. McGreevey's sludge from the Passaic Valley Sewerage transfer water between public water sys- open space and farmland in order to administration cut money for repairs and Authority that contains heavy metals, tems during a water emergency in all or safeguard public drinking water, pre- improvements to our state parks to lev- PCB's and dioxin. Internal DEP docu- any part of the State, to protect existing serve wildlife habitat and maintain quali- els far below those of the Whitman ments say the cap will not work, and water supplies through the acquisition of ty of life, voters overwhelmingly years: her range was $12-18 million/year; that it is one hundred times more pervi- watershed and wetlands areas, and to approved an Open Space Trust Fund in the average now is $2 million/year with ous than the DEP standard for a cap on a maintain existing open space in a manner 1998. Tens of thousands of acres have a $225 million backlog on needed emer- contaminated site. A million gallons of which would protect water supplies. been protected. However, newly pro- gency repairs. The DEP's Site contaminated leachate will go into the posed A2923 would allow a municipali- Remediation Program has been weak- sewer systems of Bergen and Essex 7. EMINENT DOMAIN: ty, in certain situations, to disapprove ened so much that, instead of cleaning County where vapors can back up into A2336/S196/S205 both past and future acquisitions for up contaminated sites, the strategy now people's homes and sewer overflows To prevent deterioration of our water open space and recreation purposes. is to cap the uncleaned site and develop will be experienced during heavy rains. resources as well as greater severity of A559 would authorize the issuance of on top. The State Plan has become a rub- DEP documents are also concerned that both droughts and floods, more land special permits to allow owners of per- ber stamp for developers to make map the 2000 units of housing will cause needs to be preserved in critical water- manently preserved farmland to engage amendments and Center designations in cracks in the cap and toxic gases to shed areas. in or accommodate commercial nonagri- environmentally sensitive areas -- justify- escape into peoples homes. Both the These bills would authorize the State, cultural activities on their farms. ing bad sprawl developments such as EPA and US Fish and Wildlife Service with prior approval by the State House Club members interested in inter- Hovnanian's Heritage Minerals tract. Key have raised serious concerns about this Commission, to use eminent domain viewing candidates for Governor, and administrative appointments were given site and its effects on both the power to acquire lands protective of for the State Senate and Assembly, to developers and polluters: the head of Hackensack River and people who will drinking water sources — for conserva- should please contact their Group the State Planning Commission is a live in this development. Commissioner tion and recreation purposes. Political Chairs, or Rich Isaac. The developer and the head of the Clean Air Campbell has refused to require an Chapter Political Committee meets Council is a lobbyist for the Chamber of Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or 8. RECYCLING ELECTRONIC EQUIP- almost monthly on the mornings of Commerce and opponent of Clean Car. an Environmental Analysis of the site and MENT: A3057 State ExCom meetings. K McGreevey also convened a Developers has also taken action to remove liability Council of 40 of the wealthiest and most for the developer for future contamina- politically connected developers in the tion to groundwater or soils. Close to built -- even though there are already Administrative Law Judge, whose deci- state. "Promises made, promises broken" $300 million in public subsidies have DOT studies showing that this project sion cannot be appealed. The Law has been a theme in this administration been authorized for this project. will cause gridlock at three major inter- applies to lands where over 85% of the for issues such as adoption of the threat- Xanadu, a 6.5 million square foot shop- changes in the region. The EPA and US state's population lives and has received ened and endangered species rule and ping, entertainment and office complex Fish and Wildlife Service have sent let- unprecedented scrutiny by federal agen- establishment of the Public Advocate, on public land in the Meadowlands, is ters stating that the project violates the cies such as the EPA, NOAA, and the US allowing Green Acres the power of emi- the largest development being proposed National Environmental Policy Act, and Fish and Wildlife Service for violating nent domain, passing timed growth leg- on the Eastern Seaboard at this time. The fails to properly analyze the wetlands the National Environmental Policy Act, islation, enabling towns to have building state permits and EIS were rushed issue. Not only is this project being built Coastal Zone Management Act and other moratoriums and collect impact fees for through without any real public scrutiny on public land, held by the NJ Sports federal laws that delegate environmental developments, and executing real Pay-tto- or even a chance to get the information and Exposition Authority, but the devel- authority to the state. Play reform. And, despite overwhelming necessary to examine the size, scope and opers are receiving close to $500 million Governor McGreevey's 2003 State of public outcry, the administration autho- impacts from the project. Over 100,000 in public subsidies to run water and the State address committed his adminis- rized the first bear hunt in thirty years. cars a day will be added to an area that sewer lines, and build internal roadways. tration to ending mindless sprawl, but The Ugly: There are many issues and already has severe traffic problems, mil- Finally, if you didn't think things could instead he has given us mindful and delib- projects that would fall under this catego- lions of gallons of sewage will be sent to get worse, all of the above projects are erate sprawl. Why does an administration ry, but I shall limit myself to six in which a plant that can't handle its current flow subject to the Fast Track Law that will that starts off with so much environmen- McGreevey came down on the wrong and that allows partially treated and raw allow them to be built more rapidly and tal promise end up setting back environ- side even of the Bush administration! sewage into the Hackensack River when with virtually no public oversight. The mental protections in New Jersey? Part of Petty's Island, a four hundred-acre it rains. The project as proposed will fill McGreevey administration stonewalled the blame goes to the people involved island in the Delaware River near seven acres of wetlands that the EPA has this Law through the Legislature over a and the political system we have. While Camden, with a pair of nesting bald rated as priority. In both 1972 and 1978, three day time period; it is a blank check the Governor was out campaigning on eagles and other endangered species, is when the Meadowlands Complex to wealthy, politically connected devel- environmental issues, he was also work- owned by Citgo, which wants to clean received its original approvals, the State opers. The Law requires that permits for ing behind closed doors with his up contamination and donate the island and the EPA would not allow these wet- virtually all land use, clean up and pollu- Developer's Council, made up of people to the state's Natural Lands Trust as a lands to be filled. DEP's approval of the tion prevention programs be deemed who contributed millions of dollars park with a $2 million endowment to project will result in major increases in complete or are automatically approved towards his campaign expenses and likely maintain it. DEP Commissioner nonpoint pollution and flooding: the within 45 days. The permits can be helped with his personal problems. They Campbell blocked the Trust from accept- Stormwater Management Plan fails to applied for, certified, and granted by pri- met monthly in Drumthwacket to set land ing this donation -- so it can be con- meet the DEP's new requirements. The vate consultants -- who can be employ- use policies and write the Fast Track Law, demned by Pennsauken and developed DEP hearing officer's review of this pro- ees, or even family members, of the weaken the Highlands bill, and weaken with 750 condos, a hotel and a golf ject concluded that its size and scope fail developer or polluter applicant. The contaminated site cleanup programs. course. The US Fish and Wildlife Service to meet the requirements of the Coastal public will have no opportunity to fully These are the developers who have and ex-Governor Whitman are working Zone Management Act, and the develop- comment on a permit application, since received permits, had projects removed with us to save the island. er, Mills Corporation, has failed to pro- the applicant can provide information or exempted from the Highlands Act, and In 1996, then-DEP Commisisoner Bob vide the information required. Despite up until the last day. Once it has been received hundreds of millions of dollars in Shinn denied a CAFRA (coastal) permit these findings, DEP granted the permits. deemed complete, no further comment subsidies. When you judge an administra- for 830 units of housing in wetlands The Meadowlands Commission said that from the public can be considered. State tion in its entirety, you have to look at the with endangered species on the Heritage the EIS is deficient, and has asked that a agencies which deny permits can be good, the bad and the ugly to understand Minerals tract. This year, Commissioner traffic study be done after the mall is challenged by developers in front of an what the legacy really is. K The same website can be used to order Sierra Club Calendars for 2005. 6 The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 Club Heroes Honored at Annual Awards Ceremony n November 21, at Pretty Brook Trenton staff to three full timers, served Farmhouse in Princeton, approxi- as the Chapter's Issue Coordinator to Omately 50 Chapter leaders and protect South Asia's endangered tigers, supporters honored this year's bevy of and added humor and intelligence to all brave benefactors, who have emerged our meetings. successfully from doing battle with the Chapter Conservation Chair Laura forces of environmental evil. Jeff Tittel Lynch: for leading our conservation honored each awardee with appropriate activities, for tenaciously fighting many one-liners: important battles such as Rte 92, Congressman Frank Pallone (D, 6th Millstone Bypass, Princeton Ridge, and District): for tireless efforts to fight to pro- Mercer Airport, for scrutinizing count- tect New Jersey and the nation's environ- less pages of many Environmental ment and especially for his work on the Impact Statements and for living a Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans Subcommit- lifestyle that we all strive for. tee in defending our natural heritage. Volunteer Chapter activist Rocky Congressman Frank LoBiondo (R, 2nd Swingle: began his career as an environ- District): In appreciation of his spirit in mentalist only a few years ago, but in the tradition of Republican President that time he has managed to energize Theodore Roosevelt and his efforts as a hundreds of Hamilton Township (Mercer guardian and steward of our nation's County) residents towards open space public lands and wildlife. preservation. He started with Klockner State Senators Ellen Karcher, Barbara Road Woods, which he saved almost sin- Buono, Nia Gill, and Shirley Turner: the gle-handedly. Rocky then moved on to four female legislators who voted against stop development in a forest on the cor- the Fast Track Bill, described elsewhere ner of Klockner Road and Nottingham in this Newsletter, resisting all the pres- Way. He was so successful in alerting the sure from Governor McGreevey's office neighborhood that the Township to vote otherwise. Planning Board hearings had to be State Senator Tom Kean Jr.: one of moved to a high school auditorium. only a few few male legislators to vote Rocky has since founded Save Hamilton and resist likewise, and for work on gov- Open Space, an organization that has its ernment reform. eye on about half a dozen properties to If you have experience in organizing or working on fundraising cam- Curtis Fisher, environmental advisor to be saved from development. Rocky has paigns, WE WANT YOU! Now that the Bush administration is poised Gov. McGreevey: for leadership and tena- done all this with grace, calm, organiza- to launch phase two of its assault on the environment, it is more impor- cious efforts instrumental to the passage of tion, and eloquence that is rare in a sea- tant than ever that the Sierra Club be out in front educating the public, the Highlands Water Protection and Planning soned activist, let alone one that is as Act, which will protect and preserve the new to the game as Rocky is. lobbying our elected officials and keeping the pressure on those who Highlands region for future generations. Congressman Rush Holt (D, 12th would seek to destroy all that prior administrations, both Democrat and Chapter Chair Sunil Somalwar: District) was also present, a friend that Republican, have accomplished over the past thirty years. It is also Completing three years as our leader, we always count on, and who sets the more important than ever that we continue to work at the state and Sunil "managed" the expansion of our standards for the rest. local levels to preserve the environment and our way of life right here in New Jersey. But effective activism costs money. So if you have the experience and expertise to help us in reaching out to our members and friends for crucial financial support, please volunteer to help out. WE NEED TO ACT NOW, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE. If you are able to help, please contact Ken Johanson at [email protected] or 908-464- 0442. You'll be doing something good for your country, for the envi- ronment and for the world.

YOU HAVE MORE TO GIVE THAN YOU KNOW Maybe you can’t make a gift to protect the environment during your lifetime, but you can become a financial hero by remembering the Sierra Club in your will. You can even direct your gift to a special Club program or to the New Jersey Chapter. For information about making a bequest to the New Jersey Chapter call George Denzer at 609-799-5839. Our Chapter Chair and Vice Chair, Sunil Somalwar and Ken Johanson. Jeff Tittel and Bob Johnson in the background. Photograph by Greg More.

Are you receiving Dennis Schvejda’s News Bulletins and alerts? Go to http://SierraActivist.org The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 7

GENERAL MEETINGS: Held once a month (except July, August and December) at 7:30 pm on the following THURSDAYS, at the locations indicated. For more information, contact Betsy (see above). FROM roup Jan 13: at Louis Bay 2nd Public Library, 345 Lafayette Avenue, Hawthorne, NJ 973-427- roup AROUND 5745: “We are the Sierra Club” - an introduction to the Sierra Club’s conservation issues GG THE and outdoor activities in northern New Jersey, led by North Jersey Group activists. STATE ews Feb 17: at Paramus Public Library, 16-E Century Road, Paramus, NJ 201-599-1300: A ews••••••••••••• wide-ranging discussion with Damien Newton of the Tri-SState Transportation N Campaign about mass transit and road projects in northern NJ, such as Route 17, N Xanadu rail spur, Bergen-Hudson Light Rail, freight and commuter rail lines, and Bus Rapid Transit. Come find out what’s really going on! HOW TO IDENTIFY YOUR GROUP (BY COUNTY) Northwest Jersey Group: Sussex & Warren Mar 17: at Pequannock Public Library, 477 Newark-Pompton Turnpike, Pequannock Hunterdon County Group: Hunterdon Twp, NJ 973-835-7460: a slide presentation by nature photographer Al Simpson about North Jersey Group: Passaic & most of Bergen the distinctive flora and fauna in Highlands watersheds and the Great Swamp, especially Essex County Group: Essex wildflowers, mushrooms and other fungi, reptiles, amphibians, and other critters. Hudson-MMeadowlands Group: Hudson & SE Bergen Loantaka Group: Morris & Union WAYS TO VOLUNTEER: You can take on an issue, such as air quality, brownfields, Central Jersey Group: Mercer energy, environmental justice, global warming, hazardous waste, recycling, or trans- Raritan Valley Group: Somerset & Middlesex portation. You can help organize programs or tabling. You can join the Legislative Jersey Shore Group: Monmouth & Ocean Committee, which monitors or proposes bills or the political committee which evalu- West Jersey Group: Gloucester, Camden & Burlington ates candidates for public office. You can keep an eye on your planning board or work on local conservation issues or help stop McMansions in Sterling Forest. To find out South Jersey Group: Atlantic,Cape May,Cumberland & Salem more, please contact Betsy or Mike (see above). These designations are approximate: members are welcome to participate in whichever Group(s) they find convenient TO RECEIVE E-MMAIL NOTICES OF ISSUES, EVENTS AND MEETINGS: Send a message to [email protected]. Your e-mail address will be kept confidential. Northwest Jersey Group Hudson-Meadowlands Group (Sussex and Warren Counties, approximately) (Hudson County and southern Bergen County: Lyndhurst, Rutherford, East Web site: We are accessible from the NJ Chapter Web site. Rutherford, Carlstadt, Ridgefield, Edgewater, Cliffside Park and Fairview)

OFFICERS: OFFICERS: Chair: Dennis Miranda 973-209-1814 [email protected] Chair: Louise Taylor 201-886-9362 [email protected] Active Person: Pat Mangino 862-432-7552 [email protected] Treasurer: Open position! Vice Chair: Open position! Secretary: Connie Ftera 201-869-7950 Treasurer: Open position! Programs Chair: Open position! Secretary: Open position! Publicity: Open position! Political Chair: Open position! Political Chair: Melissa McCarthy 201-324-3964 [email protected] Publicity Chair: Open position! Membership: Louise Taylor 201-886-9362 [email protected] Outings Chair: Open position! ExCom Members: Tina Munson, Gil Hawkins, Donald Kopczynski

ACTIVITIES: Working to preserve open space and clean water in the NJ Highlands NEWS: As you can guess, the Hudson-Meadowlands Group is suffering “growth pains.” within Sussex and Warren Counties. It takes active volunteers to operate the Sierra Club, people interested both in local issues (environmentally responsible development of the Hoboken waterfront area, **OPENINGS** The Group has an opening for Treasurer, Secretary, Conservation, and oversight of Liberty State Park, motivations for using public transport, local parks, a number of other positions as it renews its efforts to preserve open space and clean Meadowlands issues, etc.), and people interested in the larger regional and statewide water within the NJ Highlands. Free training provided. For those interested in helping issues discussed at monthly Chapter ExCom meetings and pursued by our Issue please contact Dennis at 973-209-1814, or at: [email protected] for details. Thanks! Coordinators. Hudson (and southern Bergen) County always presents interesting polit- ical election endorsement issues. GENERAL MEETINGS: Please contact Dennis Miranda for information regarding future meetings, and a discussion of plans for preserving the NJ Highlands from over-devel- GROUP BALLOT: Candidates for Hudson-MMeadowlands Group Executive Committee: opment. For directions or more information, please call Dennis, at 973-564-9589. Vote for nine, maximum. The first column of boxes is for “individual” members. Family (joint) members are entitled to express two opinions by using both columns. Hunterdon County Group (To learn more about the candidates, contact Group officers listed in the Group News section of this Newsletter.) Please cut on the dotted line, and mail the com- OFFICERS: pleted ballot by February 1, 2005, to H-M Group Ballot, Sierra Club, 139 W Hanover Chair: Ruth Prince 908-284-9103 [email protected] St, Trenton NJ 08618. Political Chair and Treasurer: Arnold Kushnick [email protected] ‰‰Louise Taylor, 201-886-9620 ‰‰Gil Hawkins, 201-944-5799 For meeting times and locations, please contact Ruth Prince. ‰‰Connie Ftera, 201-869-7950 ‰‰Melissa McCarthy, 201-324-3964 ‰‰Donald Kopczynski, 201-224-2641 ‰‰Dr. Rosemary Arena, 201-861-6222 ACTIVITIES: ‰‰Betty Leung, 201-224-3542 ‰‰David Case, 201-332-7506 Planning: We are involved with the development of the Hunterdon County Growth ‰‰Mike Selender, 201-451-5411 ‰‰Write-in ______Management Plan, an effort that has been funded by the state DCA, and continue to attend ‰‰Write-in ______county meetings and workshops. We are coordinating with the Hunterdon Coalition on the State Plan cross-acceptance process, regarding fast-track permitting impacts. Please include your membership number (from the mailing label on p. 1): ______.

Development: We have opposed several proposed DEP permits for groundwater allo- cation and stream encroachment throughout the county, based on technical and regu- Essex“ County Group latory arguments. We continue to help in the Friends of Holland Highlands opposi- web site: http://NJSierra.org/NJS_Groups/Essex. We are also accessible from the NJ tion to the proposed Shire Rd (Musconetcong Mountain) development, and have com- Chapter web site. mented on the permit applications regarding wetlands and stream encroachment for the C1 Spring Mills Brook on the property. We are also providing municipal land use OFFICERS: advice to groups opposing unwise developments in and around Hunterdon. Chair: Janine Schaeffer 973-432-2043 [email protected] Vice-CChair: Dave Ogens 973-226-0748 [email protected] A “Group” can be two people! – if you ask the right questions – let us know if we can help! Conservation: Michel Cuillerier 973-736-0913 [email protected] Political: Chris Weis 973-224-0474 [email protected] Media: Open Position! North Jersey Group Outings/Parks: Dave Ogens 973-226-0748 [email protected] (Passaic and Bergen Counties, approximately) Open Space: Michel Cuillerier 973-736-0913 [email protected] Secretary/ OFFICERS: Treasurer: Lori Tanner 973-857-0519 [email protected] Group Chair: Betsy Kohn 201-461-4534 [email protected] Fundraising: Open Position! Group Co-CChair: Mike Herson 201-262-9472 [email protected] Events: Maria K. de Wakefield 973-736-0913 [email protected] Conservation Mike Herson 201-262-9472 [email protected] Membership: Camille Gutmore 973-667-2203 [email protected] Co-CChairs: Tom Thompson 201-848-1080 [email protected] Energy Membership Chair: Ellen Friedman [email protected] Conservation: Mike Minaides 973-470-0793 [email protected] Outings Chair: Ellen Blumenkrantz [email protected] West Orange: Sally Malanga 973-736-7397 [email protected] Political Chair: John Kashwick 201-660-8820 [email protected] GIS/Maps: Billi Schloss 973-467-8154 [email protected] Political Alternate: Greg Tondi 201-935-7162 [email protected] Publications Chair: Emily Stoecker 201-265-5889 [email protected] ACTIVITIES: Working to preserve wetlands in the Hatfield Swamp in the Passaic River Secretary: Barbara Quigley [email protected] Basin and remaining forested areas in Essex County, continuing to ensure that the Essex Treasurer: Open Position County Park and Open Space Trust Fund is implemented in a fair and consistent way, and Wildlife: John Mikalonis 201-930-7804 [email protected] addressing environmental justice (EJ) issues. Working to bring an energy audit to Essex County through the D.O.E.’s ReBuild America Program and to establish a commission to EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE/CONSERVATION MEETINGS: Held at least four times a year study the feasibility of expanding the current light-rail project in Newark. (once every quarter). For the date and location, please contact Betsy (see above). (Continued on page 8)

Members of the Hudson-Meadowlands and Central Jersey Groups: Please VOTE the Group ballots. 8 The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005

Membership Chair: Corinne Egner [email protected] GROUP NEWS Programs Committee: Ken Mayberg 609-443-9138 [email protected] (Continued from page 7) and Lisa Ridge 732-658-6440 [email protected] Publicity Coordinator: Janet Black [email protected] EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS: Political Committee: Tom Zolandz 908-874-4194 [email protected] Please contact Janine (see above) for dates and locations. Outings Chair: Ken Mayberg 609-443-9138 [email protected] Outreach Coordinator: Harold Rapp 609-671-0435 [email protected] GENERAL MEETINGS: Please call Maria de Wakefield at 973-736-0913 for dates and locations. Forest Issues Coordinator: Nancy Carringer 732-438-8688 [email protected] Parks & Loantaka Group Biodiversity Issues: Pat Sayles [email protected] (Morris and Union Counties, approximately) WEBSITES: To get the most up-to-date information and news on our issues and activi- WEBSITE: http://Loantaka.NJSierra.org ties, visit www.sierraactivist.org/getbusy.

OFFICERS: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS: Group Co-CChairs: Paul Sanderson 908-233-2414 [email protected] Meetings are generally held on the FIRST THURSDAY of the month at 7:30 pm. Please And Chris Mills 973-377-1742 [email protected] contact Laura Lynch (above) for the location, which may vary. These meetings are Treasurer: Joyce White 908-272-4478 [email protected] open to all Sierra Club members. Secretary: Lisa Melanie [email protected] Conservation Chairs: GENERAL MEETINGS: Morris County: Chris Mills 973-377-1742 [email protected] We meet on the SECOND WEDNESDAY of each month at 7:30 pm at the Lawrence Union County: Eric Hausker 732-669-0719 [email protected] Branch of the Mercer County Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville Legislative Chair: Ken Johanson 908-464-0442 [email protected] 08648. Check our website for a map. Our meetings are free and open to all members Political Chair: Meiling Chin [email protected] and the general public. We always share information about our involvement in local, Programs: Steve Yafet [email protected] state and national conservation issues, and suggest ways in which everyone can get Outings Chair: Joyce White 908-272-4478 [email protected] involved. Outreach, Events: Bob Johnson 908-771-9676 [email protected] Publicity Chair: Wynn Johanson 908-464-0442 [email protected] PROGRAM SCHEDULE: Membership: Doug Williams 973-263-8404 [email protected] Jan 12: Don Griffin, our group’s former long-time Outings Chair returns to share his Air Quality Coor: Bob Campbell 908-273-5720 [email protected] photographs and experiences with a national Sierra Club service outing to Crater Lake Webmaster: Melissa Goss National Park in Oregon working on trail maintenance and vegetation. Greenbrook: Bob Muska 908-665-2296 [email protected] Feb 9: Celeste Tracy, Trail Coordinator for the Delaware River Greenway Partnership To find out our activities, go to: http://loantaka.njsierra.org. will bring us up-to-date on the latest efforts to make the proposed Delaware River Heritage Trail a reality. To join our emailing list, send a blank email to: http://lists.njsierra.org/listinfo.cgi/loantaka-group-announcements-njsierra.org. Mar 9: Note: The location of our March meeting has yet to be determined. Please check http://sierraactivist.org/getbusy/central/html for the location. Local hiking, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS: backpacking and bicycling leaders will offer best-ppractice tips and secrets for making Meetings are held on the FIRST TUESDAY of the month at 7:30 pm at Library of the your next outdoor experience even better. If you have questions about the best equip- Chathams, 214 Main St., Chatham, NJ ment to use and how to use it, where to get the best deals, places you haven’t seen yet, and other do’s and don’ts, this meeting is a great time to get some answers. This is your club and there is always an open invitation to attend an Executive Committee meeting. Right now, we have open positions on our Executive Committee. If you are E-MMAIL NOTICES: If you’d like to receive those last minute reminders of meetings or interested in a position and would like to find out more, please contact Paul Sanderson. outings, please send your e-mail address to Corinne Egner (above). If you’d like to receive issue alerts, please send your e-mail address to Laura Lynch (above). GENERAL MEETINGS: Meetings are held on the SECOND WEDNESDAY of the month at 7:30 pm at the GROUP BALLOT: Candidates for Central Jersey Group Executive Committee: Library of the Chathams, 214 Main St., Chatham Vote for five, maximum. The first column of boxes is for “individual” members. Family (joint) members are entitled to express two opinions by using both columns. Come to a general meeting and learn something new and make some new friends. (To learn more about the candidates, contact Group officers listed in the Group We’d welcome the chance to meet you and to introduce ourselves at a general meet- News section of this Newsletter.) Please cut on the dotted line, and mail the com- ing. Please see the meeting schedule which follows and join us! pleted ballot by February 1, 2005, to C-J Group Ballot, Sierra Club, 139 W Hanover St, Trenton NJ 08618. DIRECTIONS: Directions are posted on our website http://Loantaka.NJSierra.org ‰‰Ken Mayberg ‰‰Harold Rapp MEETING SCHEDULE: ‰‰Lisa Ridge ‰‰Tim Ridge Jan 12: Thomas Denholm of the NJ Department of Agriculture will speak on the possi- ‰‰Rocky Swingle ‰‰Write-in ______ble devestating impact of the Asian Longhorned Beetle on the forests and agriculture ‰‰Write-in ______of New Jersey and the northeast region. This invasive insect has the potential to change the very forests of the region with many irreversible plant and animal extinc- Please include your membership number (from the mailing label on p. 1): ______. tions. Ordinary citizens can play a role in controlling its spread while our biologists investigate possible defenses.

Feb 9: Jim Burchell of PeaceWorks will show a short video about local resistance by a Raritan Valley Group community in Nicaragua to plans for a port at the Atlantic terminus of a trans-isthmus (Middlesex and Somerset Counties, approximately) railroad, the so-called “dry canal.” This will be followed by a discussion session about the environmental impact of development projects in emerging markets, and what we WEBSITE: www.njsierra.org/~njrar/ in the US can do to help fight damaging projects. OFFICERS AND CONTACTS: Mar 9: Making Local Government Responsive To The Environment. A presentation by Chair: Sandi Lowich 732-247-5760 [email protected] North Jersey Group Conservation Chair Mike Herson on how Citizens can help protect 44 Chestnut St, Milltown NJ 08850-1140 or shape the environment by monitoring or participating in local decision-making. Mr. Vice-CChair & Herson will explore the powers and functions of the mayor and council, planning and Membership: George Scrape [email protected] zoning boards, environmental and shade tree commissions, and other governing bodies. Conservation Drawing on his own planning board experience, he will discuss the rules and proce- Chair, Outings: Dave O’Leary 732-572-2059 [email protected] dures for drafting and updating a master plan and ensuring zoning is consistent, and eval- Political Chair: Open position uating (approving or rejecting) development proposals. He will also give a brief Programs: Sandi Lowich [email protected] overview of cross acceptance and NJ State regulations. The legal rights of citizens to par- Publicity: Pat Affrunti [email protected] ticipate - the rights to know, be heard, receive advanced notices, obtain minutes and Secretary: Open position! public records, review proposed laws, submit proposals, etc. - will also be outlined. Treasurer & Webmaster: Don McBride 732-560-0369 [email protected] ACTIVITIES: The Loantaka Group is working with concerned citizens and local environmental orga- ISSUES: nizations to protect open space and wildlife habitat in Morris and Union Counties, and We are fighting development along streams, wetlands, flood plains and steep slopes. to safeguard the water resources on which we all depend. We are also organizing vol- Group members are involved in local issues, answering questions for concerned citizens unteers to help maintain and improve trails in the Morris and Union County Park regarding development and stewarding local master plan initiatives. This includes working Systems. In addition, the Group is actively involved in State-wide initiatives involving to protect threatened and endangered species in these areas. Help us stop developers from air quality, transportation, and environmental legislation. Volunteers are always wel- buying sub-standard lots and obtaining permits and variances to construct new homes. come. Call Paul (908-233-2414), Chris (973-377-1742) or Bob Johnson (908-771-9676) for more information. Calling All Volunteers: The Raritan Valley Group welcomes you to our activities. Currently, the positions of Political Chair and of Secretary are open. If you are interest- Central Jersey Group ed in filling the open position, please contact Sandi Lowich, the Group Chair. (Mercer County, parts of Somerset and Middlesex) GENERAL MEETINGS: Held at 7:30 pm on the THIRD WEDNESDAY of the month except for July and August. Meetings are held at the Unitarian Society of New OFFICERS: Brunswick, 176 Tices Lane, East Brunswick. Take the Ryders Lane exit off Route 1 Chair: Laura Lynch 609-882-4642 [email protected] towards East Brunswick. Make a left turn at the first four-way intersection onto Tices Vice Chair: Lisa Ridge 732-658-6440 [email protected] Lane, and the church is the second driveway on the right. The public is invited and Treasurer: Bill Wowk 609-587-0502 [email protected] refreshments are served. For further directions and information, visit our website. Conservation Chair: Ed Pfeiffer 609-581-1660 [email protected]

Contact one of our Issue Coordinators (see the list on p. 12) if there’s an issue that interests you! The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 9

PROGRAM SCHEDULE: Handicap accessible parking and entrance in rear of building. Jan 19: Wild Journeys. Plainsboro Preserve Sanctuary Director Brian Vernachio, co- author of “Wild Journeys,” will discuss his book, the Plainsboro Preserve with its hik- Jan 11: Jessica Grudowski of America Corps will speak about Watershed Monitoring Projects. ing trails, the 50-acre McCormick Lake, and wildlife habitat. Discover this hidden gem right in Middlesex County. Feb 8: Michael Hogan will present “The Rebirth of the Big Timber Creek”. Slides and discussion. Feb 16: The D & R Canal: from History to Hikes. Linda J. Barth, a director of the Canal Society of New Jersey, will present a photographic tour of the Delaware and Raritan Mar 8: To be announced. Please check the website and local newspapers for topic. Canal, opened in 1834, one of the most successful towpath canals in the United States. Barth will engage us with her tales of the history and present-day 70-mile Delaware and Raritan Canal spanning from New Brunswick to Trenton that is one of Central South Jersey Group New Jersey’s most popular recreational corridors for hiking, biking, jogging, fishing, (Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland and Salem Counties, approximately) canoeing and horseback riding. OFFICERS: Mar 16: Watersheds. Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association Acting Director Group and Noelle MacKay will speak on water quality, why water is important, what the water- Outings Chair: Tom Boghosian 609-272-9005 [email protected] shed does, and current water issues in New Jersey. The watershed is the oldest in New Vice-CChair: Sally Nunn 609-704-1790 [email protected] Jersey, and one of the largest in the country. Conservation Chair: Fred Akers 856-697-3479 [email protected] Political Chair, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS: Held at 7pm on the FIRST THURSDAY on alternate Calendar Sales: Dick Colby 609-965-4453 [email protected] months except for July and August. Currently, meetings are usually held at the Bound Membership Chair: Gary Roman 609-625-3438 Brook Presbyterian Church, 409 Mountain Ave. in Bound Brook. All Sierra Club members Secretary/Treasurer: Julie Akers 856-697-3479 [email protected] are invited to attend. Please contact us first in case there is a change of plans. The central conservation issue, for which the Group was founded in the 1970s, contin- ues to be protection of the Great Egg Harbor Wild & Scenic River, and continues to con- Jersey Shore Group sume the energies of those few officers who remain active — both within the Sierra (Monmouth and Ocean Counties, approximately) Club and in two other organizations that have “spun off” from the South Jersey Group. Very few of our local members seem interested in the meetings we’ve scheduled in the Web Site: http://njsierra.org/~njshore/ past few years, and many of them have been cancelled for lack of interest. For the pre- sent, we’ll continue to be listed in this Newsletter, and offer a point of contact for Club OFFICERS: members in South Jersey who want help with local issues. If you have topics (and Group Chair: Dennis Anderson 732-888-3158 [email protected] places) for meetings, please let the officers know about them. Please contact the offi- 612 Second St., Union Beach, NJ 07735 cer(s) specified in advance of each meeting, if you wish to attend; otherwise we’ll can- Vice-CChair: Open position! cel. We welcome general comments from Club members in South Jersey. Secretary: Joe DeLuca 732-389-1835 [email protected] Conservation: Current Issues: Club officers and staff have been following closely the several studies Monmouth Co: Steve Knowlton 732-747-7011 [email protected] seeking to determine sustainable water supply levels for southeastern New Jersey, Ocean County: Open position! with the hope that findings will be used by planners (such as those employed by the Ocean County Pinelands Commission) to limit population growth. Another hot issue is proposals to Section Chair: Open position! develop several large tracts of environmentally sensitive land in Millville. Webmaster: George Newsome 732-308-1518 [email protected] Treasurer: Judy Maxcy 732-458-5074 Jan 12 (Wed): 6:30pm: Bi-monthly meeting of Citizens United to Protect the Maurice Political Chair: Laura Bagwell 732-741-8678 [email protected] River and its Tributaries. Meeting place: Millville Public Library, 210 Buck Street. Outings Chair: Mike Verange 908-902-0718 [email protected] Cumberland County development issues are usually discussed, including updates on Membership: Alan Roseman 732-780-1308 [email protected] the Holly Farm and the Airport Race Track. Call Fred Akers-856-697-6114. Program Chair: Regina (Maurer) Knowlton 732-335-1183 [email protected] Jan 25 (Tues): 7pm: Opportunity to catch up on conservation planning for the Great GENERAL MEETINGS: Egg Harbor Wild and Scenic River, at a public (membership) session of the Watershed Held at 8pm on the FOURTH MONDAY of each month - except in July, August, and Association (an organization that once got its start as our Group Executive December - at the Old Wharf House, Old Wharf Park, Main Street and Oceanport Committee!). For information or to confirm, call Fred Akers -856-697-6114. Warren Avenue, Oceanport, NJ. Come early to socialize and enjoy refreshments. For directions Fox Nature Center. and information, please call Regina Knowlton at 732-335-1183, or visit our web site. Feb 16 (Wed): 7pm: Great Egg Harbor River Council: Comprehensive Management Plan Jan 24: The State of the Oceans. Are we depleting the oceans’ resources by our meth- implementation meeting. Contact Fred Akers -856-697-6114. Warren Fox Nature Center. ods of commercial fishing? Will enough fish survive to produce the next generation? What effects are the drugs we use having on aquatic life? Hear Tom Fote, March 9 (Wed): 6:30pm: Bi-monthly meeting of Citizens United to Protect the Maurice one of New Jersey’s representatives on the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries River and its Tributaries. Meeting place: Millville Public Library, 210 Buck Street. Commission, answer these and other questions about the status of our fisheries. Cumberland County development issues are usually discussed, including updates on the Holly Farm and the Airport Race Track. Call Fred Akers-856-697-6114. Feb 28: More Time – Cleaner Environment. Energy efficiency enables us to improve our quality of life while reducing household costs. In turn, the reduction in costs March 22 (Tues): 7pm: Opportunity to catch up on conservation planning for the makes it more viable to use increases in labor productivity to reduce the workweek Great Egg Harbor Wild and Scenic River, at a public (membership) session of the without a cut in pay. Join us as Dan Aronson, Sierra Club member, economics profes- Watershed Association (an organization that once got its start as our Group Executive sor and speaker at the 2004 ”Take Back Your Time” annual convention, explains to us Committee!). For information or to confirm, call Fred Akers -856-697-6114. Warren how Americans can help themselves while helping the environment. Fox Nature Center.

Mar 28: The Highlands: Treasures at Risk. We’ve all no doubt read or heard about the environmental treasures located within the Highlands of New Jersey. Come see for Seniors Section yourself what those treasures are, as Wilma Frey of the Highlands Coalition presents a (A new chapter-wwide special interest section offering hikes/cleanups, social slide show, which showcases this region. gatherings, movies, meetings, etc.)

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS: The Group’s Executive Committee meets The Section hopes to promote Senior participation in letter writing campaigns, in monthly at members’ homes. All are welcome to attend. For more information, please social outings, and in increasing membership in a dynamic group component of the call Dennis Anderson at 732-888-3158. NJ Sierra Club. For further information, contact Nancy Carringer ([email protected]) or Richard Isaac ([email protected]). West Jersey Group (Camden, Gloucester and Burlington Counties, approximately) Singles Section (A chapter-wwide special interest section offering hikes/cleanups, social Web site: users.snip.net/~ginacee/home.htm gatherings, movies, meetings, etc.)

OFFICERS: Please join us! The NJ Singles Section was specifically created to offer a variety of singles-ori- Group Chair: Gina Carola 856-848-8831 [email protected] ented activities to NJ Sierra Club members and those who would like to know more about Vice-CChair: Wayne Zanni 856-728-4507 [email protected] us. We are not a local group; we are a statewide additional “layer” of Club involvement. Secretary: Becky Payne 856-488-5510 [email protected] Everyone is welcome to attend our events. Come out and meet fellow Club members and Treasurer: Trish Clements 856-768-5639 [email protected] others who care about the environment. We can only offer as many activities as we have vol- Publicity Chair: Bud Kaliss 856-428-8071 [email protected] unteers to run them – if you have the slightest urge to get involved, please give in to it! Political Chair: Open position Pinelands Rep: Lee Snyder [email protected] Webpage address: http://singles.njsierra.org Greenways email:[email protected] (mention “Sierra Club” in your subject line) Coordinators: Frank and Ellen Zinni Phone announcements: (973) 364--77573 Conservation Chair: Stacey Ayala [email protected] Press 1 for: Final Friday Film Fest (last Friday of each month) Membership Chair: Mike Brown 856-547-9221 [email protected] Press 2 for: Ron Pate’s upcoming hike Fundraising Chair: Reiss Tiffany 856-829-6405 [email protected] Press 3 for: 2nd Monday monthly meeting Programs Chair: Open position Press 4 for: 3rd Tuesday of the month dinner in Montclair Outings Chair: Open position Press 7 for: Joyce Haddad’s outings Inner City Outings: Jennifer Grenier 856-582-5512 Press 8 for: Singles Dance-and-a-Movie or Volleyball and Maxine Vogt 856-779-9156 The BEST way to be notified of upcoming events is to join our listserv by visiting GENERAL MEETINGS: are held at 7:30 pm on the SECOND TUESDAY of each month, at http://lists.njsierra.org/listinfo.cgi/nj-ssierra-ssingles-aannouncements-nnjsierra.org (long, the Unitarian Church, 401 N. Kings Highway (Rte. 41), Cherry Hill (located between Rte. 70 and the convergence of Rtes. 38 and 73, just north of a traffic light at Chapel Avenue). (Continued on page 10)

Group meetings offer interesting speakers, involvement, friendship, and usually food! 10 The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 GROUP NEWS (Continued from page 9) It’s Not Too Late To Give and Show isn’t it). All events, including those planned after publication, will be sent to your Your Support to NJ Chapter! email mailbox. If you prefer not to receive email, you may view all messages which Thank you for being a member of to NJ Chapter of Sierra Club. We are an environmentally con- have been sent to the listserv by going to http://lists.njsierra.org/pipermail/nj-sierra- scientious group of like-minded people who care deeply about what is happening in our state, singles-announcements-njsierra.org/. country and world. As the Sierra Club mission states… “Explore, enjoy and protect the wild places on earth. Practice and promote the responsible use OFFICERS: of the earth’s ecosystems and resources. Educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the Chair: Bob Johnson [email protected] quality of the natural and human environment. Use all lawful means to carry out these objectives.” Outings Chairs: Joyce Haddad [email protected] These are not just words, it’s a statement that each one of us believes and is the reason many Dave Ogens [email protected] have joined the NJ Chapter of Sierra Club! Conservation Chair: I’m asking for your continued support to our NJ Chapter. At the end of 2004 you received our Mary Walsh [email protected] Chapter funding raising letter. You may have already given a donation to the Chapter. If so, thank Treasurer: Joyce White [email protected] you! If not, there’s a good chance you’ve set the letter aside, planning to send your contribution Webpage designer: David Szalay [email protected]. when you could. But then the holidays were upon us and it just didn’t happen. Well not to worry Social Chair: Open position Contact us! We need you! there is still time. Please mail your check to: Programs: Diana Eichholz [email protected] NJ Chapter Sierra Club Publicity: Lynn Forrest [email protected] 295 Princeton-Heightstown Road, PMB suite 11-303, West Windsor, NJ 08550 …and remember, all contributions stay in our NJ Chapter and all funds are used towards better- Membership: Open position Contact us! We need you! ing our environment. We have so much to do and need your support in helping to achieve our ambitious goals! Volunteer Opportunities: We need volunteers in all areas of the state to run events. Volunteers needed for the positions of: hike leaders, Conservation Chair, Fundraising For our families and our future, Chair/Co-Chairs, and members of all committees, including social event planners for Tina Schvejda, Former NJ Chapter Chair Plaza Grille. Please attend an executive committee meeting or email any of the officers if you are interested. You may co-chair any position with a friend, if desired. We’re happy to help you learn the ropes. Learn more about your GENERAL MEETINGS: environment… Casual pizza gathering, introduction to club issues and activities, and letter writing. OutingsOutingsOutings take a Sierra Club SECOND MONDAY of each month starting at 7pm with optional pizza, at the Chatham Library (214 Main St). Guest speakers at each meeting at 7:30pm. $5 donation at door educational hike! and RSVP (required for pizza only) to [email protected] or 973-364-7573, ext. 3, by noon the day before. (Please leave name and specify plain or veggie-topping pizza.) GROUP OUTINGS COORDINATORS ment, routes to be followed, and special precautions to Free (and no RSVP required) if you’re not having pizza. be taken. Please arrive adequately prepared and Central Jersey: Ken Mayberg equipped. If you have any allergies, please remember to Directions to the Chatham Library: From I-287 take Rte. 24 East to Exit 8 (Summit [email protected] bring your medication. The leader has the final word in Ave). Turn left at the top of the ramp and then left again so you go back onto 24 head- Essex County: David Ogens 973-226-7107 (H) the conduct of the trip. Your cooperation will help assure a safe and pleasant outing. ed West. Take exit 7A for Chatham and bear right onto Rte. 124 (Main St). Follow 29 Hatfield Street, Caldwell, NJ 07003 Please arrive early at the meeting place so that the out- Main St. through the traffic lights at University and Hillside Avenues. The Library is to Hudson-Meadowlands: Vacant ing can start on time. For day hikes, lunch, water (at least your right about 1/2 block past the Hillside Ave traffic light. From Parkway take I-78 Hunterdon: Susan Schirmer 908-996-7722 (H) a liter), extra clothing, rain gear, and emergency equip- West to 24 West. Take exit 7A for Chatham and follow above directions. For further Jersey Shore: Mike Verange 908-732-8364 (H) ment should be carried in a small daypack. For all except directions, call the library at 973-635-0603. 1497 W Front St, Lincroft, NJ 07738 easy hikes, sturdy over-the-ankle shoes or boots should Loantaka: Joyce White 908-272-4478 (H) be worn. For most trips, you are expected to have your PLANNING/EXCOM MEETINGS each month at various locations. All welcome. [email protected] own equipment. In some cases, it may be rented from outdoor/camping suppliers -check the yellow pages or Contact any officer for date and location. North Jersey: Ellen Blumenkrantz 201-784-8417 [email protected] call the trip leader. If the weather is questionable on the date of the outing, you may assume that it will take place, Northwest Jersey: Pat Mangino, [email protected] SOCIAL GATHERINGS: unless the schedule indicates otherwise. Upcoming Fundraiser: Watch for upcoming details regarding our Sierra Singles Raritan Valley: Steve Ember, [email protected] Unless registration is required, such as for weekend South Jersey: Tom Boghosian 609-272-9005 (H) fundraising event this October. Join our listserv to be notified. trips or river tours, or if you have a question about the 3722 Lehigh Ct., Mays Landing, NJ 08330 outing, it is not necessary to contact the leader before West Jersey: Dan Procida 609-767-2149 (H) the trip. Do not call to join a trip after the posted dead- SOCIAL DINNER: First Wednesday of each month at 6:30 pm. Join us for dinner in 813 Old White Horse Pike, Waterford Works, NJ 08089 line date. When phoning a leader, please honor his or Morristown at the Famished Frog. RSVP required; join our listserv for further details. River Touring: Fred Tocce 908-453-2205 (H) her requested calling times and call 3 to 5 days before Rd 1 Box 277, Washington, NJ 07882 the outing. Please include a self-addressed, stamped SOCIAL DINNER: Third Tuesday of each month at 7pm. Join us for dinner in a Inner City Outings: Anne Dyjak 732-560-0953 (H) envelope (SASE) when writing to a leader. On popular trips, Sierra Club members will be given preference. Montclair restaurant. Location will be announced 2 weeks before the social. RSVP is NJ-ICO, 17 Mt. Horeb Rd. Warren, NJ 07059 Watercraft trips let you experience the unspoiled parts required to [email protected] or 973-364-7573 option # 4. Chapter Outings: Ellen Blumenkrantz 201-784-8417 of our region, but water safety does impose special [email protected] requirements. The size and skill of each party must be appro- SINGLES DINNER-AAND-AA-MMOVIE: priate to each river, so participation in each trip must be at the Feb 26: RSVP required - Please join us at 6pm at The Plaza Grille, 3 Headquarters Plaza, Outing Leaders: Please send April-June 2005 write-ups to discretion of the leader. We ask you to register at least one in Morristown, NJ. Approximate cost is $30 (plus $3 extra fee for non-members, your Group Outings Coordinator before January 30. If you week in advance. Unless a phone number is provided, are planning to lead an outing close to the beginning of one please bring membership card), for a full buffet dinner including soft drinks, coffee, please send a SASE with an honest assessment of your of our quarterly publication periods, please submit it for the paddling experience, whether you need or can offer a ride, dessert, tax, tip, and a movie ticket valid for one year at all Clearview Cinemas. Please previous Sierran, due to the occasional lag in mailing. Also, your phone number, and any questions you may have. You include full name in e-mail and include the subject “Sierra Dinner and a Movie”. If you please send outing rosters or sign-up sheets to the Chapter will receive a description of the trip, with directions, where you must cancel, please do so by e-mail ASAP. We will decide at dinner which movie to Office as soon as possible after each outing. can rent a canoe, and what you will need to bring. Almost all attend based on interest, and may split up to attend different movies. RSVP required Note: If possible, leaders should send their trip descrip- trip leaders can arrange for partners to share a canoe if you by Feb 25th to: [email protected], or 973-364-7573, ext. 8. tions to the Group Outings Coordinator instead of directly will be coming by yourself. Unless stated otherwise: rental to the Chapter Outings Coordinator. This is particularly canoes are available, trips do not require advanced paddling important for occasional leaders. skill or exceptional physical conditioning, public transportation HIKES: is not available, non-members may participate, and responsi- Please see the Outings section of this newsletter for our hikes. Many of Paul Serdiuk’s Group Outings Coordinators: Please submit your April- ble smokers are welcome. June trip write-ups by February 5. South Jersey hikes/events are also oriented toward singles. If you are a Sierra Club member interested in becoming NOTES ON OUTINGS: All Outings are open to Club mem- an Outing Leader or have suggestions for new outings, bers, guests and anyone interested in outings. Unless oth- contact your Group Outings Chair or the Chapter Outings Sierra Student Coalition erwise specified, the events are free and open to the pub- Chair for assistance and further information. The Sierra lic. ALL participants must sign liability waivers on ALL out- (a semi-aautonomous organization of college and high school students) Group contributing each outing is given at the end of the ings sponsored by Sierra Club. This is a new policy. Please write-up, as follows: check with the leader before bringing small children on an Website: www.ssc.org/nj outing. A parent or other responsible adult must accompa- (C) Central Jersey (JS) - Jersey Shore (L) - Loantaka (N) - North Jersey Contact Tejal Kuray; 732-770-2142; [email protected] for information. ny persons under 18. At their discretion, leaders may per- mit pets on outings if the event description specifically (NW) - Northwest Jersey (S) - South Jersey includes bringing pets. (W) - West Jersey (NJ) - NJ Chapter (H) - Hudson (RV) - Raritan Valley Inner City Outings Section Sierra Club outings are arranged by volunteer leaders (IC) - Inner City Outings (RT) - River Touring who are in charge of the trip and responsible for the safe- (another Chapter-wwide special interest activity) (E) - Essex County (ACOC) - Atlantic Chapter ty, welfare and enjoyment of all participants. Leaders Outings Comm. determine qualifications to participate, adequacy of equip- OFFICERS: Chair (North/Center Jersey): Anne Dyjak 732-560-0953 [email protected] DECEMBER/JANUARY Volunteer Coordinator: Patti Lynch [email protected] Dec 27, 2004 – Jan 2, 2005 NEW YEAR’S IN QUEBEC - By request, repeat of past years trips. Ski, sightsee, & Co-CChairs party as we welcome the New Year with our fellow club members in picturesque Quebec City! Six days and (South Jersey): Joy Booth 856-486-1574 [email protected] six nights. Lodging at the Loews Le Concorde located at the gates of the old walled city of Quebec with and Jennifer Grenier 856-582-5512 [email protected] views of the St Lawrence river. Revolving roof-top restaurant, sauna, Jacuzzi, etc. Buffet breakfasts daily & four gourmet dinners. Alpine & Nordic skiing at Mont St Anne, rated one of the top cross-country touring and Maxine Vogt 856-779-9156 [email protected] centers in North America with 223 km of classic & 125 km of groomed skating trails! Includes a special New Years party. Young adults welcome. Always a popular trip. This year we will be including trip insurance! Inner City Outings is a community outreach program which provides wilderness $875 includes lodging, meals, transportation by motorcoach. & trip insurance. Please register early to insure your reservations, this trip does fill up fast! Send $300 deposit & large SASE by Dec 1st* to leader: Norman adventures for inner city youth of NJ. Volunteer certified outings leaders conduct out- Adis, 163 Hillside Ave., Livingston N.J. 07039 phone: 973-994-2933 e-mail: [email protected]. ings on weekends, generally day trips on Saturdays. Send inquiries to co-leaders Dan Parietti, 212-781-2038, e-mail [email protected]; or Rob Greenberg, 973-334-0125 e-mail: [email protected] *Call leader beyond this date for availability. NJ is currently served by two ICO groups, one in the northern/central region and one Jan 1 2005 (Sat) 9am: Clayton Park Upper Freehold Township (Special Interest: History) Ring in the New Year with a moderate 6 mile hike in one of Monmouth County Park System’s best kept secrets. Moderate ele- in the southern region/Camden area. If you would like to experience the rewards of vation gains. Hiking shoes not required. Bring snack and drink. Meet at the Wawa store near the intersection introducing NJ inner city youth to the wonders of nature, your involvement is encour- of County Rte 537 and I-195 in Upper Freehold Township. Bad weather (includes snow cover) cancels. aged and you are requested to contact us at the above email addresses. To learn more, Confirmation/ Questions call Leader Mike Verange 908-902-0718 or mjverange@ aol.com (JS) visit our webpage at http://www.sierraclub.org/ico/newjersey/ Jan 2 (Sun) 11am: Singles Social Hike at Eagle Rock Reservation. Celebrate the New Year with a 4-5-mile hike at a moderate pace. Bring water and snacks and wear hiking boots. Rain cancels. Meet before 11:00am at the Highlawn Pavilion Parking lot off Eagle Rock Avenue in West Orange. Take Rte I-280 to Prospect Avenue

Please share this newsletter with a non-member friend, inviting use of the coupon on p. 12 The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 11

(exit 8B) head north, right turn onto Eagle Rock Ave, left turn into reservation. A $3 fee will be charged to Feb 12 (Sat) 10am: Social Hike South Mountain Reservation. Meet before 10am at the Turtle Back Rock nonmembers. Well-behaved dogs are welcome. All participants must sign a liability waiver. Inclement weath- entrance to South Mountain Reservation off Walker Rd in West Orange. We will hike 5-6 miles to Hemlock er cancels. Leader: Joyce Haddad 973-364-7573 option #7 (E) Falls and Washington’s Lookout beautiful view of NYC. Bring water, wear hiking boots, rain cancels. Lunch social to follow at local restaurant. Take Rte 280,exit 10, at light turn left onto Northfield Ave.(west) go 2 Jan. 2(Sun) 9:30 am: Singles Hike Apple Pie Hill. 7-8 miles. Moderate pace. Hike the highest point in South miles Turn left onto Walker Rd.(opposite Rock Spring water co.)Turtle Back parking area is on the right. All Jersey for a great panoramic view of the pines. Bring picnic type food to share at tailgate social after hike. participants must sign a liability waiver. Ron Pate Leader [email protected] Non members $3 fee. 973- NP/NC. Meet at Carranza Memorial parking lot, 6.7 miles SE of Tabernacle, Burl. Co. on Carranza Road. 364-7573 option # 2 Leader: Paul Serdiuk, eves. 609-462-3593 [email protected] Feb 13 (Sun): Alpine Skiing or Boarding Instruction at Sterling Forest. Down-home non-intimidating atmos- Jan. 8 (Sat.) 10am: Lakota Wolf Preserve, Columbia, NJ. Come for the photo opportunity of a lifetime and the phere with excellent instruction for the beginner or intermediate. Good practice hill for the advanced chance to listen to packs of Tundra, Timber and Arctic Wolves. Bobcats and foxes also reside at the preserve. skier/boarder. There is also a tubing park . Bag lunch recommended but there is a cafeteria. Leader available Guided tour takes approximately one and a half hours. Cost is $15 for adults, $7 for children. Carpool can be throughout the day for further or advanced instruction & help. For details and transportation info, call leader. arranged. For directions and RSVP call Pat Mangino at 973-770-8430. There is a half-mile walk to the tour area. Early registration is important! Leader: Norman Adis 973-994-2933; email: [email protected] Shuttle provided in good weather. For more info on Lakota Preserve go to www.lakotawolf.com. or call toll- free, 877-SEE-WOLF. Feb 13 (Sun) 9:30 am: Singles Orangina Hike. 7 miles, moderate pace. Annual classic hike to old clay pits used to make pottery. Bring picnic type food to share at tailgate social after hike. NP/NC. Meet at mile marker #12 Jan. 8 (Sat): Beginner Alpine Skiing or Boarding Instruction at Mt. Peter. For the timid who always wanted to on Rte 72 E., on dirt road opposite Auto Wreakers, allow for extra driving time. Leader: Paul Serdiuk 609-462- try downhill skiing or boarding, this is the place! Non-intimidating, no-frills, good instructors. Steeper slopes 3593 eve., [email protected] for the intermediate or expert to brush up on their skills. Bus service from Port Authority direct to area. Bag lunch recommended. Leader available throughout the day for further or advanced instruction or help. Call Feb 13 (Sun) 2pm: Washington Crossing State Park. Hopewell Twp. 4 miles, moderate pace. Meet at parking leader for details. Early registration is important! Leader: Norman Adis 973-994-2933 email: lot by bridge next to Delaware River off of Rte 29. Precip. or snow on ground cancels. Ken Mayberg; 609-443- [email protected] 9138 [email protected] Jan 9 (Sun): Alpine Skiing or Boarding Instruction at Sterling Forest. Down-home non-intimidating atmosphere Feb 19 (Sat) 11:15 am: Clausland Mountain. 6 miles. We’ll climb up Clausland Mountain (700’ Climb) through with excellent instruction for the beginner or intermediate. Good practice hill for the advanced skier/board- historic Rockland Cemetery to an old Nike missile base. Bring hiking boots, lunch, 2 quarts of water. You can er. There is also a tubing park . Bag lunch recommended but there is a cafeteria. Leader available throughout take the 10:40 Rockland Coaches 9A bus from the George Washington Bridge Bus terminal to meet Leader in the day for further or advanced instruction & help. For details and transportation info, call leader. Early regis- Piermont by 10:15. Drivers meet in front of 450 Piermont Ave. (building with mural) by 11:15 am. Leader: tration is important! Leader: Norman Adis 973-994-2933; email: [email protected] John P. Jurasek 845-365-3618 (no calls past 10pm) or [email protected] (ACOC) Jan 9 (Sun) 10am: Southern Harriman Stream/Lake Loop and Beaver search My favorite 8 mile loop through Feb 20 (Sun) 9am: Hartshorne Woods, Monmouth County (Special interest: Recent History) Moderate 6 mile Harriman along the streams to Pine Meadow lake where we will look for signs of recent beaver activity. They hike has elevation gains and a lot of scenery. Please bring drinks and snacks. Hiking shoes are suggested. Meet were quite active last winter, felling trees and trimming off the bark like corn on the cob. Bring lunch, water, 9am at the Rocky Point parking area. Take GSP to exit 117. Take Rte 36 toward Sandy Hook approx. 10 miles thermos with hot beverage if very cold day. Optional food/drink stop after the hike. Maximum 12 people. to the Miller St. exit. Go to the top of the hill make a right. Parking area is Straight ahead. Bad weather, Hikers must pre-register. Leader: Ellen Blumenkrantz 201-784-8417, [email protected] (includes snow cover) cancels. Confirmation/questions please call. Leader Mike Verange, 908-902-0718 or mjverange @aol.com (JS) Jan 14-117 (Fri. - Mon.): (Martin Luther King Weekend) CATSKILL MOUNTAINS Alpine Inn, Enjoy all of win- ter’s white magic in the special beauty of the high peaks of the central Catskills by skiing the numerous alpine Feb 26 (Sat) 7:00pm: Singles Full Moon Hike. 6-7 miles. Moderate pace. Hike the pines in winter under the and cross country ski trails. Hikers and snowshoers can explore and photograph the scenic mountain beauty Snow moon. Bring snack type food to share at tailgate social after hike. NC/NP. Meet in field behind Atsion of the miles of the spectacular state maintained trail system covering this mountain range. In the evening by Ranger Office on Rte 206, between Hammonton and Red Lion, Burl. Co. Leader. Paul Serdiuk 609-462-3593 fireside we plan a great mountaineering color slide program or magic show. Excellent accommodations and eve. [email protected] gourmet food! Total cost for 3 nights lodging, 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners, 2 trail lunches and all taxes & gratuities Feb. 27 (Sun) 9:30 am: Singles Hike and Haddonfield Tour. 5 miles, easy pace. We will hike Cooper River $319. This is a joint trip of the AMC, Sierra Club and UCHC. Leader: Al Tatyrek (eve 973-763-2303 - no calls Park, then have a guided tour of historic Haddonfield, fee possible. Lunch at a local eatery. Meet at Coastline after 10pm please) Will send transportation, activities planned and other info with $150 deposit and SASE Lounge, Brace Road off Rte 561, Cherry Hill to caravan to park starting point. NC/NP. Leader: Paul Serdiuk envelope to our co-leader and registrar, Brant Collins W 732-458-8334, 1480 Rte 88 West, Brick, NJ 08724. 609-462-3593 eves, [email protected] Balance due on arrival. Trip information website: http://www.geocities.com/petebeck_00/catskills. Jan. 14–17 (Fri.-MMon.): MLK ~ Ski Lake Placid Weekend ~ X/County & Alpine. By popular request, we will return to the Olympic mountain for three days of great x/ctry and alpine skiing ! Or you can skate the Olympic Oval, ride MARCH the luge, dog sled rides, tobogganing, bobsledding, etc., etc. Or just stroll thru the quaint town of Lake Placid. Trip includes transportation by motorcoach from NJ and NYC [Penn Sta.], three nights lodging [d/o] at a five star full Mar 4-66 (Fri-SSun): Catskill Mountain Winter Weekend Alpine Inn, Enjoy all of winter¹s white magic in the service Hotel in downtown Lake Placid, three breakfasts, and three dinners. Please register early, this trip will fill special beauty of the high peaks of the central Catskills by skiing the numerous alpine resorts and cross up fast!! Trip cost: $485. Trip insurance included. Send $250 deposit and large SASE by Dec.10. to leader: Norman country ski trails. Hikers and snowshoers can explore and photograph the scenic mountain beauty of the Adis, 163 Hillside Ave, Livingston, NJ. 07039 phone 973-994-2933 Fax: 973-716-0987 e-mail: [email protected] miles of the spectacular state maintained trail system covering this mountain range. In the evening by fire- Balance due by Jan 1. After this date, call leaders for availability. Co-leaders: Dan Parietti, phone 212-781-2038, e- side we plan a great mountaineering color slide program and/or magic show. Excellent accommodations mail: [email protected]. Rob Greenberg phone 973-334-0125 e-mail: [email protected] and gourmet food! Total cost for 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner, one trail lunch and all taxes & Jan. 15 (Sat) 10am: Minnewaska Carriageways A moderate paced, 8-10 mile loop along the carriageways gratuities $202. This is a joint trip of the AMC, Sierra Club and UCHC. Our several cross country skiing to/from Lake Awosting. Bring lunch, water, thermos with hot beverage if very cold day. Optional food/drink and hiking trips are rated from the easiest to more difficult. Leader: Al Tatyrek (eve 973-763-2303 - no stop in New Paltz after the hike. Heavy rain or snow cancels. Maximum 12 people. Hikers must pre-register. calls after 10pm) Send transportation, activities planned and other info with $100 deposit and SASE enve- Leader: Ellen Blumenkrantz 201-784-8417, [email protected] lope to our co-leader and registrar: Balance of payment is due on arrival at the Alpine Inn. Information Website: http://www.geocities.com/petebeck_00/catskills Registrar & co-leader: Peter Beck H 201-274- Jan 16 (Sun) 10am: Southern Harriman Stream/Lake Loop and Beaver search My favorite 8 mile loop through 4471 P.O. Box 267, Wharton, NJ 07885 Harriman along the streams to Pine Meadow lake where we will look for signs of recent beaver activity. They were quite active last winter, felling trees and trimming off the bark like corn on the cob. Bring lunch, water, Mar 5 (Sat): Alpine Skiing/Boarding at Blue Mountain, PA Spring skiing / boarding at a great area with 30 thermos with hot beverage if very cold day. Optional food/drink stop after the hike. Maximum 12 people. slopes, 8 lifts, and a 1100 ft vertical! There is also a tubing park and they have excellent instruction for all lev- Hikers must preregister. Heavy rain or snow cancels. Leader: Ellen Blumenkrantz 201-784-8417, eblu- els with special first-time skiers packages. Transportation can be arranged, dependant upon response. [2004 [email protected] lift price: $44] Please register early. Call leaders for details and to register. Leader: Norman Adis 973.994-2933 [email protected] Co-leader: Rob Greenberg 973.334-0125 [email protected] Jan. 22 (Sat) 7pm: Singles Moonlight Hike: Campfire & Campout. 6 miles, moderate pace. Hike under the Wolf moon as we walk on moonlit sand roads and return to a roaring fire. Camping is available call to reserve Mar 6 (Sun) 10am: Harriman/Claudie Smiths den & Sebago Lake. Various trails combine for a 10 mile loop space. Bring picnic type food to share at tailgate social after hike. NP/NC. Meet at Lebanon State Forest group hike along the lake shore and to the den with some great views. Heavy rain or snow cancels. Bring lunch, camp-site. Entrance to forest is on Rte 72, 1/2 mile from Jct of Rtes 70 & 72 . Leader: Paul Serdiuk 609-462- snacks, water and thermos of something hot if it’s very cold. Hikers must pre-register. Leader: Ellen 3593 eve. [email protected] Blumenkrantz 201-784-8417; [email protected] Jan. 22 (Sat) 9am: Singles Hike/X-CCountry ski at Wawayanda State Park. We will hike or x-country ski (weath- Mar 6 (Sun) 9am: Singles Hike and Birthday Brunch. 5 miles, moderate pace. Hike between two rivers in late er permitting) approx. 8 miles at a moderate pace. Bring hiking boots or cross country equipment, lunch, winter, wildlife sighting possible. Then help celebrate the leaders birthday as we enjoy an all you can eat buf- snacks and 2-3 quarts of water. Well-behaved dogs welcome. Inclement weather cancels. All participants fet at Renault Winery Restaurant. NC/NP. Meet at Atsion Office on Rte 206. Between Hammonton and Red must sign a liability waiver. Hikers must pre-register to confirm the time and meeting place of this hike. Lion Circle, Burl.Co. Leader. Paul Serdiuk 609-462-3593 eves, or [email protected] Optional stop after hike at a local restaurant for food and drinks. There is a $3 fee for non-members. Leader: Mar 12 (Sat): Alpine Ski/Board [or learn how] at Elk Mountain, PA. Spring skiing at it’s best! Rated as pa’s best- David Thompson 201-315-3530 or e-mail [email protected] (E) ski area. 1,00ft vertical, 26 slopes & trail, 6 lifts, and one of the east’s best ski schools. If we have enough par- Jan. 28-330 (Fri-SSun): Singles Getaway Weekend. Mohican Center, Blairstown, NJ. Enjoy an all-inclusive week- ticipants, leader will provide bus transportation from NYC & NJ, so PLEASE register early! Lift tickets: $33. end in a rustic lodge situated in the mountains of Northern Jersey. We will do several local hike in the area, Group cocktail party is available. Call leaders for information and to register. Leader: Norman Adis 973-994- AT, Coppermine and Rattlesnake trails. Then do a short moonlight hike around the lake in the evening. Cost 2933 [email protected] Co-leader: Rob Greenberg 973-334-0125 [email protected] is about $65 per person, covers food and lodging. Limited openings, contact leader by Jan 15. Leader: Paul Mar 12 (Sat) 10am: Singles Hike at Eagle Rock Reservation. We will hike 4-5 miles at a moderate pace. Bring Serdiuk 609-462-3593 eve, or [email protected] water and wear hiking boots. Meet before 10am at the Highlawn Pavilion Parking lot off Eagle Rock Ave. in Jan. 28 - 30 (Fri. - Sun.): Catskill Mountain Winter Weekend Alpine Inn, Enjoy all of winter¹s white magic in the West Orange. Take Rte I-280 to Prospect Ave (exit 8B) head north, right turn onto Eagle Rock Ave, left turn special beauty of the high peaks of the central Catskills by skiing the numerous alpine resorts and cross-country into reservation. We will have lunch at a local eatery after the hike. A $3 fee will be charged to nonmembers. ski trails. Hikers and snowshoers can explore and photograph the scenic mountain beauty of the miles of the All participants must sign a liability waiver. Rain cancels. Leader: Ron Pate 973-364-7573 option #2 (E) spectacular state maintained trail system covering this mountain range. In the evening by fireside we plan a Mar 13 (Sun) 10am: Social hike in Farny Higlands/Splitrock Reservoir. About 6 miles. The terrain has moderate great mountaineering color slide program and/or magic show. Excellent accommodations and gourmet food! ups & downs. Bring lunch so that we can take our time and enjoy the outdoors. Arrive before 10am. Location: Total cost for 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner, one trail lunch and all taxes & gratuities $202. This is a Farny Highlands – Fisherman’s Parking area at Splitrock reservoir. Directions: From I-80 exit #37 joint trip of the AMC, Sierra Club and UCHC. Our several cross country skiing and hiking trips are rated from Rockaway/Hibernia. Go north on Greenpond Rd (Rte 513) towards Hibernia. At about the 6.5 mile turn right the easiest to more difficult. Leader: Al Tatyrek (eve 973-763-2303 - no calls after 10pm ) Send transportation, at the Marcella Firehouse sign onto Upper Hibernia Rd. At the fork in the road go left onto Split Rock Rd. The activities planned and other info with $100 deposit and SASE envelope to our co-leader and registrar: Balance road turns to dirt keep going past the dam and the parking area is on the left. Leader: Pete Beck, 201-274-4471 of payment is due on arrival at the Alpine Inn . Info Website: http://www.geocities.com/petebeck_00/catskills; Registrar & co-leader: Peter Beck H 201-274-4471 P.O. Box 267, Wharton, NJ 07885. Mar 13 (Sun) 1:30 pm: Stony Brook Watershed, Pennington. 4 miles, moderate pace, flat. Take Titus Mill Rd. off of Rte 31. Meet at headquarters. May be wet in places. Precip. Cancels. Ken Mayberg, 609-443-9138; Jan 29 (Sat) 11:15am: Tallman Mountain State Park. 7 miles. We will hike through Tallman Mountain State [email protected] Park and view the berms and salt marsh. We will then walk the mile-long Piermont pier halfway across the Hudson! Trails include the Long Path. Bring lunch and water. You can take the 10:40 Rockland Coaches 9A Mar 20 (Sun) 9am: Manasquan River Reservoir, Monmouth County (Special Interest: birds) Enjoy an easy 5- bus from the George Washington Bridge Bus terminal to meet Leader in Piermont by 11:15. Drivers meet in mile circular hike on one of the largest reservoirs in the area. We may observe waterfowl. Bring snacks, front of 450 Piermont Ave. (building with mural) by 11:15 am. Leader: John P. Jurasek 845-365-3618 (no calls drinks, bird books or binoculars. Hiking shoes are not required. This is a great family hike. Meet at 9am at the after 10pm) or [email protected] (ACOC) main entrance to the reservoir on Windeller Rd. Take the GSP to exit 98. Head west on I-195 to exit 28 (Rte 9.) Go north on Rte 9. Make first right onto Windeller Rd. The main entrance is 1.5 miles on your left. Meet in Jan 29 (Sat) 10am: Singles Hike/ X-CCountry ski at Hatfield Swamp in West Essex Park. We will hike or X-coun- the parking area at the far left toward the back. Bad weather (Includes snow cover) cancels. try ski (weather permitting) 5 miles at a moderate pace through forested trails along the Passaic River. Meet at Confirmation/questions please call. Leader Mike Verange, 908-902-0718 or mjverange @aol.com (JS) 10am at the Environmental Center, 621 Eagle Rock Ave. in Roseland. Take Rte 280, exit 4A (Eisenhower Pkwy South), go right at 1st light onto Eagle Rock Ave., ½ mile on left. Sign reads: “Essex County Mar 20 (Sun) 10am: Singles Spring Hike. 6 miles, moderate pace. Hike in celebration of the rebirth of nature Environmental Center”. Bring water, snacks and hiking boots. Lunch to follow at local restaurant to be and spring. We hike Sandy Ridge area of Pine Barrens. Spring flowers possible. Bring picnic type food to announced at the hike. Well-behaved dogs welcome. Rain cancels. A $3 fee will be charged to nonmembers. share at tailgate social after hike. NP/NC. Meeting point is 11 miles south of Tabernacle on Carranza Road, All participants must sign a liability waiver. Please confirm the time and meeting place of this hike the day Burl. Co; look for outdoor club sign. Leader Paul Serdiuk 609-462-3593 eves, [email protected] before by calling the number below. Leaders: Joyce Haddad and Ron Pate 973-364-7573 option# 2 (E) Mar 20-227: Ski Red Mtn, BC. X/Country & Alpine. Ski the Canadian Rockies! Red Mtn. is the oldest ski area in Jan 29 - Feb 5: Ski Mt. Tremblant. Seven days on-slope lodging, d/o; including hot & cold breakfasts. Canada and one of skiing’s best kept secrets; renowned for it’s consistently good snow conditions. 2800 ft Transportation by motorcoach, NJ & NY departures. Great X-ctry skiing, ice-skating, etc. 610 acres of alpine vertical & runs up to 4.5 miles! Experts will enjoy deep powder and un-parallel tree-skiing, while the interme- skiing or boarding for all levels at the highest mtn in the Laurentians w/over 4 mtn faces. 4 star hotel with all diate or novice skiers & snowboarders can choose from a wide array of groomed runs and moderate/ glades. amenities. Celebrated nightlife at Tremblant’s renowned Pedestrian Village. Great trip at a great bargain! X/ctry skiers delight, with over 30 miles of machine groomed track. $1230 cost includes airfare from Newark, Approx. cost of $860.00 includes lodging, breakfast, transportation, and trip insurance. Must have deposit of 4-star hotel lodging [d/o], ground transportation [rental vehicles], all breakfasts, five dinners, and trip insur- $300 before Dec 15th. [mail to leader] Past this date, call for availablity. Leader: Norman Adis, 163 Hillside ance. [optional, but recommended], Lift tickets not included. PLEASE REGISTER EARLY! Early $500 deposit Ave, Livingston, NJ. 07039 Ph: 973-994-2933 Fax: 973-716-0987 e-mail: [email protected] Co-leader: Rob needed by Nov 30 to guarantee these low rates. Past Dec 30th, call leader for availability. Leader: Norman Greenberg Ph: 973-334-0125 e-mail: [email protected] Adis, 163 Hillside Ave, Livingston, NJ 07039. Ph: 973-994-2933 Fax: 973-716-0987, e-mail: [email protected] ~ Co-leader: Rob Greenberg Ph: 973-334-0125 e-mail: [email protected] Asst Co- leader: Dan Parietti, Ph: 212-781-2038, e-mail: [email protected] FEBRUARY Mar 26 (Sat) 7:30 pm: Singles Moonlight Hike, Campfire & Campout. 6miles, moderate pace. Hike sand roads around the lake under the full Sap moon and return to a warm campfire. Overnight camping is available, call Feb 6 (Sun) 10am: Singles Tundra Swan Hike. 6 miles. Moderate pace. Hike the wintry beauty among ponds leader to reserve space. NP/NC. Bring picnic type food to share at tailgate social after hike. Meet at Goshen filled with Tundra Swans. Bring binoculars. Dress for the cold weather. NP/NC. Bring picnic type food to Pond group campsite, Atsion Lake, Burl. Co., from Rte 206 turn west onto Atsion Rd. go 1.5 miles to Goshen share at tailgate social after hike. Meet at Whitesbog Village parking lot. Take Rte 70 east to Rte 530 north Pond sign, follow road to campsite. Leader: Paul Serdiuk 609-462-3593 eves, [email protected]. (Browns Mills/Ft Dix) go 1 mile, turn right onto Whitesbog Road go to parking lot. Leader: Paul Serdiuk 609- Mar 26 (Sat) 10:30 am: Hook Mountain Hike. 7 miles. Excellent views of the Hudson River and Croton Point. 462-3593 eve., [email protected] You can take the 9:15 Rockland Coaches 9A bus from the Port Authority Bus terminal to meet Leader in the Feb 6 (Sun) 10am: Harriman/Island Pond. We combine several trails for a varied loop. Some slight ups and south parking lot of Rockland Lake State Park at 10:30 am. Leader: John P. Jurasek 845-365-3618 (no calls past downs at a moderate pace. Bring lunch, water, thermos with hot beverage if very cold day. Optional 10pm) or [email protected] (ACOC) food/drink stop after the hike. Heavy rain or snow cancels. Maximum 12 people. Hikers must pre-register. Mar 26-AApr 3: Ski Summit County, Colorado! X/Country & Alpine. Repeat of last year’s great trip! World class Leader: Ellen Blumenkrantz 201-784-8417, [email protected] alpine & x/ctry skiing. Four star hotel lodging centrally located to Keystone, Breckenridge, Copper, Vail, and Feb 12 (Sat): Beginner Alpine Skiing or Boarding Instruction at Mt. Peter. For the timid who always wanted to Arapaho Mtns. All areas linked by groomed x/ctry trails plus three x/ctry ski areas. $1150 includes airfare try downhill skiing or boarding, this is the place! Non-intimidating, no-frills, good instructors. Steeper slopes from Newark, ground transportation, d/o lodging, all breakfasts, four dinners, and trip insurance. Lift tickets for the intermediate or expert to brush up on their skills. Bus service from Port Authority direct to area. Bag not included. Early $500 deposit needed by Nov 9 to guarantee these low rates. There is $100 surcharge by lunch recommended. Leader available throughout the day for further or advanced instruction or help. Call airline past this date, so please get your deposit in early! Cut-off date is Dec 10. Call leader for availability past leader for details. Early registration is important! Leader: Norman Adis 973-994-2933 email: [email protected] (Continued on page 12)

“And one by one, with sighing sound, whispering fell the beechen leaves, in the wintry woodland wavering.” -- JRR Tolkien 12 The Jersey Sierran: January-March 2005 OUTINGS (Continued from page 11) this date. Leader: Norman Adis, 163 Hillside Ave, Livingston, NJ 07039 Ph: 973-994-2933 Fax: 973-716-0987 e- NEW JERSEY CHAPTER mail: [email protected] Co-leader: Rob Greenberg Ph: 973-334-0125 e-mail: [email protected] LEADERSHIP APRIL Apr 2 (Sat) 10am: Anthony Wayne/Timp. A 10-mile loop through the most strenuous section of Harriman Chair Issue Coordinators State Park. Lots of rocky ups and downs with some scrambling. The views are great. Bring lunch, snacks and * Sunil Somalwar (732) 572-7721 water. Heavy rain cancels. Group limited to 12 people. Hikers must pre-register. Meet at Anthony Wayne lot [email protected] ATV Issues off of Palisades Parkway. Leader: Ellen Blumenkrantz 201-784-8417 [email protected] 1015 South Park Ave., Highland Park NJ 08904-2954 Fred Akers (856) 697-3479 Apr 3 (Sun) 10:30 am: Shawagunk Ridge Trail/Basha Kill A beautiful (may be VERY wet) 10-mile walk, mostly [email protected] along one of the largest wetlands in Southern NY, popular with migratory birds. One long ascent/descent to Vice-Chair PO Box 395, Newtonville, NJ 08346-0395 the Wurtsboro Ridge. Bring lunch, snacks and lots of water. Group limited to 12. Hikers must pre-register. * Ken Johanson (908) 464-0442 Heavy rain cancels. Optional dinner stop after the hike. Leader: Ellen Blumenkrantz, 201-784-8417 eblu- [email protected] Clean Air [email protected] 72 Laurel Drive, New Providence NJ 07974-2421 Bob Campbell (908) 273-5720 Apr 23 (Sat) 9am: Brookdale Community College/Thompson Park. [email protected] Moderate 6.5-mile hike that follows the Swimming River Reservoir. Please bring drinks and snacks. Hiking shoes are suggested. GSP Exit 109, head Conservation Chair 18 Shadyside Av, Summit NJ 07901-2111 Laura Lynch (609) 882-4642 west on Monmouth County Rte 520 approx. 2 miles to Brookdale Community College make first right pro- [email protected] Bill Green (908) 276-2357 ceed to parking lot #2 Meet in the right back corner at 9am. Bad weather, Confirmation/questions, please call. Leader Mike Verange, 908-902-0718 or mjverange @aol.com (JS)

Legislative Committee If no one is in the office to take your call, please Ken Johanson**, Dave Mattek, Joe Leist, leave a message on the answering machine. Kelly McNicholas, Carolyn Freeman, Please SPELL YOUR LAST NAME, and state Charles Sheard, Jeff Tittel, Dennis Schvejda whether the phone number you leave is for daytime Litigation Oversight Committee or evening. Ken Johanson**, Sunil Somalwar, Ruth Prince, Carolyn Freeman Upcoming ExCom Meetings: Group/Section Vitality All members are welcome to attend these Rich Isaac**, Laura Lynch, Jane Tousman, monthly statewide policy deliberations, held Steve Ember on SATURDAYS. Details, including agendas, public transit and driving instructions, are Facilities (office, meeting sites) available in advance from Sunil Somalwar, the George Denzer**, Joan Denzer, Chapter Chair. Bob Johnson, Joyce White, Ed Pfeiffer, January 8 • February 12 • March 19 Bonnie Tillery, Kelly McNicholas We will meet at the Hamilton Twp (Mercer Co.) 4000 Inner City Outings Coordinator Public Library. Anne Dyjak**, Joy Booth (see Group News pages) Conservation and Political Committee meetings start at 10am. Lunch is shared at noon. The main meeting starts at 1pm. We usually continue dis- * Indicates Chapter-wide elected ExCom members. cussions informally over dinner at a nearby ** Indicates committee chair or co-chair restaurant, at 5pm.

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