24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:31 AM Page 1

Spring | 2018

New Jersey Conservation Photo by Ray Hennessy Ray by Photo

HALTING ORV DAMAGE Illegal off-road vehicles are harming wildlife in 10 the Pine Barrens, but we’re working to stop them.

HISTORIC CHARACTER PROTECTED Instead of a cemetery and mausoleum, 12 North Crosswicks village will keep its rural ambiance.

REMEMBERING Without Governor Byrne, ’s Pine Barrens 14 would not be protected today. 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:31 AM Page 2

ON THE COVER Photo graciously provided by NJ-based photographer Ray Hennessy. This photo shows a long-tailed salamander, a threatened species in New Jersey. Long-tailed salamanders are of particular concern because the proposed PennEast pipeline through western Hunterdon and Mercer counties would cross through their habitat. Last summer, Columbia University graduate student Neha Savant conducted field research and collected DNA samples from long-tailed salamanders along the pipeline route. She is currently analyzing the data and is hoping her research will help protect the salamanders. Read more Trustees about the pipeline issue inside.

Kenneth H. Klipstein II HONORARY TRUSTEES PRESIDENT Catherine M. Cavanaugh Catherine Bacon Winslow Hon. James J. Florio FIRST VICE PRESIDENT Hon. Thomas H. Kean Hon. Maureen Ogden Rosina B. Dixon, M.D. From Our SECOND VICE PRESIDENT Hon.

Robert J. Wolfe Executive Director TREASuRER ADVISORY COUNCIL Edward F. Babbott Michele S. Byers Pamela P. Hirsch Bradley M. Campbell SECRETARy Christopher J. Daggett Penelope Ayers John D. Hatch ASSISTANT SECRETARy H. R. Hegener When asked about New Jersey Conservation Foundation, I say: We preserve land – Hon. Rush D. Holt Cecilia Xie Birge Susan L. Hullin more than 125,000 acres in almost 60 years. Roger Byrom Cynthia K. Kellogg Finn Caspersen, Jr. Blair MacInnes Theodore Chase, Jr. But that’s not all. I talk about advocating for strong land use protections, Jack R. Cimprich Thomas J. Maher John L. Dana Scott McVay from the Palisades cliffs along the Hudson River to the fertile farmland of Clement L. Fiori David F. Moore Chad Goerner Mary W. T. Moore Delaware Bayshore. Neil Grossman John Parker Douglas H. Haynes Ingrid W. Reed Joseph Lemond L. Keith Reed In this issue, meet New Jersey Conservation Foundation’s policy team, our Michael S. Maglio Jamie Kyte Sapoch voice in Trenton, Washington, D.C., and communities in the Garden State. Policy Stephen W. Parker Leslie Sauer Fran Raymond Price Tama Matsuoka Wong team members work to defend and improve land use laws and policies, and work Samantha Rothman Susan Swayne with elected and appointed officials to make sure our health and quality of life Louise Currey Wilson EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Lee Yeash Michele S. Byers remain priorities.

As a last resort, we take legal action to stop harmful projects, as we did in All maps were created by Tanya Nolte, GIS Manager, NJ Conservation 2015 when Great Adventure proposed to clear cut 90 acres of Pine Barrens forests to make way for a solar facility to power their Six Flags Great Adventure theme park.

New Jersey Conservation Foundation is We’re big advocates of renewable energy, but solar and wind facilities must be a private, non-profit organization whose built in the right places! mission is to preserve land and natural resources throughout New Jersey for the Read about our policy team, why they love their work, our 2018 priorities, benefit of all. and the recent Six Flags Great Adventure settlement, beginning on page 4.

And, as always, thank you for being a friend and supporter of New Jersey We protect strategic lands through acquisition and stewardship, promote strong land use policies, and forge Conservation Foundation. Our work is not possible without you, and we’re partnerships to achieve conservation goals. Since 1960, we have worked to protect the state’s farmland, forests, grateful to have you in our corner! parks, wetlands, water resources and special places.

For membership information, please visit our website at www.njconservation.org or call us at 1-888-LANDSAVE. Our mailing address is 170 Longview Road, Far Hills, NJ 07931. 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:31 AM Page 3

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 3 Photo by Bill Scullion Bill by Photo Photo by Sonia Szczesna Sonia by Photo Photo by Sonia Szczesna Sonia by Photo Szczesna Sonia by Photo 22nd Annual NJ Land Conservation Rally

Four hundred land preservation professionals and volunteers came together on March 2 for the 22nd annual NJ Land Conservation Rally, a one-day educational conference about open space and farmland preservation. This year’s keynote speaker, David Case, described his landmark study “Nature of Americans,” finding that people often feel removed from the natural world but they don’t want to be! The conference celebrated conservation connections by initiating a mentor-mentee program, matching masters of conservation with students and emerging professionals new to the field. Photo by Sandy Perry Sandy by Photo Thirty-two non-profit organizations and businesses showcased their For more information about the annual programs and services, and the popular farmers market returned where NJ Land Conservation Rally, attendees bought fresh honey and other Jersey-grown products. visit www.njconservation.org/conservationrally.htm 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 13/16/182:34PMPage4

Photo by Miguel Vieira P AE THROUGHOUTN WATER OLICY TEAMDEFENDSL the state is a priority for the policy team. Promoting healthy forests throughout plants is critical to forest health. New Jersey trees, shrubs and herbaceous An understory populated with native 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/16/18 2:34 PM Page 5

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 5

New Jersey Conservation Foundation is known for preserving open space and farmland, but a big part of our work is defending land and natural resources like clean water and wildlife habitat.

The policy team advocates for strong land conservation policies at of the Highlands to the farms of the Delaware Bay region, from the Hudson all levels of government, and forges partnerships with other groups to River to the Delaware River, we speak out and take action when our protect land and natural resources. natural resources are threatened.”

Current issues include stopping unneeded pipelines across the state, In addition to Alison, the policy team includes Tom Gilbert, campaign protecting habitats for rare plants and animals, advocating for funding director for energy, climate and natural resources; Dr. Emile DeVito, staff for open space and farmland preservation, protecting historic views of biologist and resident expert on wildlife and ecology; Wilma Frey, senior the Hudson River Palisades, and opposing threats to New Jersey’s forests policy manager and Highlands region expert; Amy Hansen, policy and water supply. analyst with wide-ranging expertise; Laura Szwak, director of outreach & education; Fran Rapa, regional manager, Delaware Bay Watershed; “Our advocacy work takes us all over the state and sometimes to Alix Bacon, regional manager, Western Piedmont; and Jane Gardner, Washington, D.C.,” said Alison Mitchell, policy director. “From the forests campaign project assistant.

TACKLES MAJOR ISSUES: LAND AND n PIPELINES n NEW JERSEY n CLEAN ENERGY n OPEN SPACE

“I am a landscape painter. When I moved to New Jersey 25 years ago, I quickly realized that the local landscapes I loved painting were threatened. I became committed to doing whatever I could to preserve and protect them.– Working ALIX BACON, for NJ ConservationREGIONAL MANAGER, has enabled WESTERN me PIEDMONTto do this.”

“I have spent my career working on land conservation funding “My early experiences growing up in rural New Jersey and and policy to protect special places. I am thrilled to be part of visiting wild places around the country inspired me to dedicate NJ Conservation’s policy team, working on energy and climate. my career to preserving land and other natural resources. There Fossil fuels are not only wreaking havoc on our climate, but fossil is no more pressing time, and no better place to do this work than fuel infrastructure such as pipelines are now one of the most New Jersey. It’s a diverse coastal state full of special places and significant– TOM GILBERT, threats CAMPAIGN to preserved DIRECTOR lands, water FOR ENERGY,and natural CLIMATE, resources.” AND many people, and we push to be on the cutting edge of NATURAL RESOURCES solutions to address climate change, protect drinking water, create– ALISON vibrant MITCHELL, urban DIRECTOR parks, and OF POLICYpreserve critical habitats.” 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:31 AM Page 6

6 | New Jersey Conservation Foundation

This past year, the policy team focused on education around New Jersey’s Jersey alone, including preserved lands owned by NJ Conservation, the gubernatorial election. We collaborated on the New Jersey League of state and others. Conservation Voters Education Fund’s “Environmental Policy Guide” to educate the public and candidates about top environmental challenges PennEast cannot construct the pipeline without permits from the NJ facing the state. Department of Environmental Protection and the Delaware River Basin Commission. The NJ Department of Environmental Protection has already After ’s election victory in November, we contributed to denied permits for PennEast once and can use its full authority under the “Environmental Agenda ’18: New Jersey’s Conservation Roadmap” – federal Clean Water Act and state regulations to stop the project for good a set of guidelines for the governor-elect and his advisors. if it can’t meet New Jersey’s strict environmental standards. “We were very pleased when Governor Murphy’s transition team for the environment and energy incorporated many of Environmental Agenda “The Murphy Administration has sent a clear message that it will uphold ‘18’s guidelines, and additional recommendations we made to the the integrity of lands and the state programs that protect open space, transition team, into its own report,” said Alison. “We’re optimistic that farmland and historic sites for our children and grandchildren,” said Michele our work will have a major impact in shaping New Jersey’s environmen- Byers, executive director. “New Jersey's preserved open spaces were not tal policies over the next four years.” set aside for unneeded fossil fuel infrastructure, but rather to protect our clean drinking water, air and land that supports the overall quality of HERE ARE SOME 2018 HIGHLIGHTS: life in New Jersey.” PIPELINE PROJECTS CLEAN ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Current priorities include defending preserved lands and natural resources Another policy team priority is advocating for a transition from fossil fuels from energy infrastructure threats, especially the proposed PennEast to clean, renewable sources of energy. pipeline. “A Clean Energy Pathway for New Jersey,” a groundbreaking study released On Jan. 19, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) gave in the fall by NJ Conservation and ReThink Energy NJ, lays out a scenario conditional approval to PennEast, which would carry fracked shale gas detailing how the state can cut carbon emissions from electric power from Northeastern Pennsylvania across the Delaware River and through generation in half by 2030. The study found that New Jersey can increase New Jersey’s Hunterdon and Mercer counties. renewable energy and energy efficiency substantially by 2030 without increasing costs to consumers. The pipeline would cross thousands of acres of preserved open space and farmland, including land preserved by NJ Conservation Foundation, and A Murphy administration priority is helping New Jersey transition to the New Jersey Green Acres and State Farmland Preservation Program. 100 percent clean energy by 2050. Less than a month after taking office, PennEast is seeking to use eminent domain to seize 147 properties in New Governor Murphy took positive steps toward this clean energy future by

“My interest began as a child playing in the woods and creeks near my home not far outside Camden. Watching many rural places become urban places had an especially profound impact on my outlook. That's in large part why I've spent much of my career focused on the protection of natural resources, especially wildlife. Working with NJ Conservation to advance good policy and preserve forests and productive farmland in the Delaware Bay watershed has been an amazing opportunity to help safeguard the character and natural beauty of a truly unique region.” – FRANCIS RAPA, REGIONAL MANAGER, DELAWARE BAY WATERSHED

“Having parks, trails and natural areas close to my home has been “At my first job out of college, at an animal protection nonprofit, so important to me. These were places where my children grew I witnessed the power of “regular people” to make a difference. up – playing and being together as a family outdoors. The NJ More than 20 years later, I still get excited about the process. Conservation Blueprint shows those neighborhoods with a deficit As we work together to fight pipelines and ensure that New of nearby ‘nature’. Our work preserving natural places– LAURA that SZWAK,become Jersey becomes a leader in clean, renewable energy, I revel in DIRECTORa part of people's OF OUTREACH daily lives & EDUCATION is most satisfying.” each small victory and am buoyed by the people we meet along (pictured with former intern the– JANE way GARDNER, who share CAMPAIGN their knowledge, PROJECT passion ASSISTANT and conviction.” Felysse Goldman) 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:31 AM Page 7

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 7

“Conserving habitats is a never-ending job, and it requires “My grandparents and parents were instrumental in my caring perpetual vigilance. You cannot imagine all the bad things that for beautiful landscapes and energy conservation, beginning in can happen to habitats that we all think have been conserved the 1970s. We all depend on nature every single day for life, in perpetuity. And– it EMILE will DEVITO, only get PH.D, worse MANAGER as we OF run SCIENCE out of clean water, clean air, solace - and it's important to protect it! undeveloped& STEWARDSHIP land.” I care about our children, future generations and those who are (pictured with, from left, Dr. Joanna Burger of already experiencing– AMY HANSEN, pain POLICY and loss ANALYST from extreme climate Rutgers, Natalie DeVito, and Isabel DeVito). disasters.”

“I attended a one-room school in Michigan and wandered local woodlands, identifying plants and butterflies. At 13, we moved to Europe and I explored picturesque towns and mountain landscapes. A fight to save huge sycamore trees near Harvard from highway construction, testifying before the Massachusetts legislature on land policy issues, and an inspirational Earth Day 1970 talk by League of Conservation Voters founder Marion Edey launched me into the environmental movement, where I have happily been ever since,– WILMA pursuing FREY, my SENIOR passion POLICY for protecting MANAGER, the environment!”HOLDING THE HIGHLANDS REGIONAL MASTER PLAN

rejoining the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, teaming up with three in Trenton. And we are encouraging the new governor to create additional neighboring states in support of a fracking ban in the Delaware River urban state parks in cities like Camden, Paterson, and Newark. Basin, and pursuing a financing mechanism for offshore wind. PROTECTING NEW JERSEY’S PRESERVING PARKS, FORESTS SPECIAL PLACES AND RARE SPECIES A critical priority is promoting regional planning policies and boosting Another priority is improving stewardship of public forest lands. We’re protections for the Highlands, Pine Barrens and other special places. calling for a comprehensive and visionary planning process for manag- We are collaborating with The Nature Conservancy and Rowan university ing public lands to better protect rare plants, animals and habitats. to identify priority agricultural , ecological, and recreational land remain- We are also supporting efforts of our partners to block the privatization ing in New Jersey by developing the NJ Conservation Blueprint. See these of Liberty State Park and proceed with the proposed Capital City State Park special places at njmap2.org.

LESSSix Flags FOREST settlement: CLEARED, MORE SOLAR IN PARKING LOTS

In 2015, we and five other conservation groups proposed solar panels will be moved to numerous species of special concern. As part sued Six Flags Theme Parks, KDC Solar and parking lots. In addition, 213 acres of Pine of the settlement, we will partner with Jackson Township to prevent over 90 acres of Barrens forest and wetlands next to the theme KDC Solar and Six Flags to build pine snake Pine Barrens forest at Great Adventure from park will be permanently preserved. hibernation dens along the southern edge of being clear-cut for a solar facility. While we’re the solar facility. all in favor of clean energy, solar facilities must While the settlement outcome was far better be located in the right places and should not than the original proposal, this should not be Partner groups in the litigation included New be built at the expense of the forest! seen as a precedent for siting of future solar Jersey Conservation Foundation, Clean Water facilities in forests. Action, Environment New Jersey, the New In January, we helped negotiate a settlement Jersey Chapter of the Sierra Club, Save Barnegat with KDC Solar and Six Flags. Under the agree- The land to be preserved provides critical Bay and Crosswicks Doctors Creek-Watershed ment, less forest will be cleared – 40 acres habitat for northern pine snakes and barred Association. instead of the original 92 - and many of the owls, both threatened species, as well as 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:31 AM Page 8 Photo by Beth Davisson Beth by Photo Preserving Tewksbury’s farmland and open space

Farmer Scott Clucas remembers bicycling with friends through the village of Oldwick in Tewksbury Township, Hunterdon County, as a child.

“We'd get to the end of town and the development rights on 48 acres of the "I'm absolutely thrilled to donate a be surrounded by expansive farmland on Finderne House Farm on the outskirts of conservation easement to NJ Conservation all sides,” recalled Scott, who currently Oldwick. It will continue to be owned by Foundation to further support its land farms thousands of acres in Tewksbury. Philip and Stacy Skalski, but future uses are conservation work in our beautiful town of “I remember thinking how cool it was that now limited to agriculture. The easement Tewksbury,” said Sargent. “Hopefully, this the town just ended like that and the will be held by Hunterdon County. trail connector will encourage more people farms began, like crossing over some We also accepted the donation of a to enjoy our equestrian and hiking trails – imaginary line.” 5-acre conservation easement a few miles and support NJ Conservation's future Much of Tewksbury still looks exactly to the west from resident Louisa Sargent. conservation efforts in our community." as it did during Scott’s childhood, thanks to The property includes a trail that could Properties along the 10-mile trail would a decades-long effort to preserve farmland eventually connect to the nearby Hill & Dale include Hunterdon County’s Cold Brook and open space. Preserve, a 295-acre nature preserve open Preserve just north of Oldwick village, Two more properties totaling 53 acres to the public for hiking, horseback riding, Tewksbury Land Trust’s Lance Farm were permanently preserved by New bird watching and other passive recreation. Preserve, Raritan Headwaters’ Fox Hill Jersey Conservation Foundation and its The Sargent property brings the vision Preserve, the township’s Hell Mountain partners, adding to the preserved greenbelt for a 10-mile trail circling the village of Preserve, New Jersey Conservation surrounding Oldwick village. Oldwick and connecting preserved lands Foundation’s Hill & Dale Preserve and the In December, NJ Conservation bought a step closer. township’s Whittemore Wildlife Sanctuary. 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:31 AM Page 9

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 9

Finderne House Farm

Finderne House Farm, a horse farm that The farm is located near the Cold Brook, New Jersey anymore,” he said. “And also grows hay and corn, is named for the and preserving it helps protect the stream’s now it’s a step closer to staying like that.” circa 1740 colonial house at its center. water quality, as well as wildlife habitat. Funding for the purchase of the Originally built in the hamlet of Finderne Scott Clucas, who farms the property, farm’s development rights was provided in Bridgewater Township, the house was welcomes the preservation of additional by the u.S. Department of Agriculture’s disassembled, moved and reassembled in farmland in his hometown. “It's amazing that Natural Resource Conservation Service, Oldwick in 1963 by the late Willie and it (Tewksbury) hasn’t really changed all that the State Agriculture Development Hannah Wister. much – there aren't a lot of towns like that in Committee and The 1772 Foundation.

Much of the farmland surrounding Oldwick village in Tewksbury Township, Hunterdon County, has been permanently preserved. Recently, we and our partners preserved 48 acres of the Finderne House Farm. 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 10

Tracks in the sand show where off-road vehicles illegally drove along and across a stream in the Candice McKee Ashmun Preserve.

Stopping illegal “mudders” Hogan Michael by Photo Volunteers plant Atlantic white cedar in the Pine Barrens saplings at the Candace McKee Ashmun Preserve in the Pine Barrens as part of an effort to regenerate forests and prevent encroachment by illegal off-road vehicles. Of all the New Jersey lands urgently in need of protection, few are more important than the Inset photo: Pine Barrens tree frog section of Pine Barrens located immediately west of the Garden State Parkway in Ocean County.

On almost any given weekend, planted 500 Atlantic white cedar trees to trespassers also dump construction debris, especially in warm weather, this region – reduce vehicle access and reforest the land. old appliances, tires and other trash. called the Forked River Mountains – attracts This summer, Tim and his team plan to “It’s all related to illegal vehicle swarms of uninvited visitors arriving in install sturdy guard rails along one Garden activity,” noted Tim, “because if you’re not four-wheel drive vehicles, often trailering State Parkway exit ramp. driving in there in the first place, there’s not quads and off-road motorcycles. Thousands of acres in the Forked River much trash you can leave.” He praised one Their destination? Thousands of Pine Mountains have been preserved by NJ of our longtime partners, the Forked River Barrens acres – including wetlands, streams Conservation and other groups – including Mountain Coalition, for organizing an and forests – preserved by New Jersey Ocean County, the NJ Division of Fish & annual trash cleanup day. Conservation Foundation and others. Wildlife and The Nature Conservancy – Law enforcement partners are also Their goal? To see how much wet terrain for their conservation value. involved in the effort to protect the land and they can drive through, a pursuit known The Candace McKee Ashmun Preserve its resources. An informal task force has as “mudding.” contains the headwaters of three streams – formed, consisting of the Lacey Township “There’s a tremendous amount of the North, South and Middle branches of the Police Department, Ocean Township damage caused by these off-road vehicles, Forked River – which flow directly into Police Department, Ocean County Sheriff’s or ORVs,” said Tim Morris, our director of Barnegat Bay, a beloved Jersey Shore Department, NJ State Police and conservation stewardship. “The ORV riders intentionally fishing, swimming and boating destination. officers from the NJ Division of Fish drive through wetlands and turn them into When these streams and their tributaries & Wildlife. racetracks. And they not only drive across are torn apart by illegal ORV riding, sediment “Illegal access is still a problem,” said streams, but up and down streams.” and motor oil wash downstream and into Tim, “but it's more under control than it New Jersey Conservation Foundation the bay. was before. And once we finish installing staff and our partners are actively working Illegal ORV riding also harms rare Pine the guard rails this summer, enforcement to curtail ORV access to the Forked River Barrens animals and plants, like northern should be much easier.” Mountains, including the 4,000-acre pine snakes, Pine Barrens tree frogs and bog Candace McKee Ashmun Preserve. asphodels, an endangered plant found only Thanks to two grants, one from the in New Jersey. “There are all kinds of amaz- National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and ing animals that are being killed and whose For more information about the the other from the New Jersey Green Acres habitats are being destroyed,” said Tim. Candace McKee Ashmun Preserve and Program, we’ve been blocking trails, sand Another problem in the Forked River the Forked River Mountains, go to roads and fire breaks used by ORV riders to Mountains is illegal dumping. In addition to http://njconservation.org/ get onto ecologically sensitive land. We have ORV riders leaving their litter behind, other candacemckee.htm. 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 11

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 11

GAINING 2018 GROuND

New Jersey Conservation Foundation and its partners permanently preserved 568 acres from November 2017 through February 2018. These include family farms that produce local foods, and natural areas that safeguard clean drinking water, provide outstanding wildlife habitat and offer scenic beauty and outdoor recreation.

THANK YOU TO ALL MEMBERS, VOLUNTEERS AND PARTNERS FOR HELPING TO PRESERVE THESE LANDS!

It’s easy to join New Jersey Conservation Foundation online – visit the website at www.njconservation.org Become a Member Today! 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 12

12 | New Jersey Conservation Foundation

Two rural properties preserved in Hamilton Township

Historic North Crosswicks village in Hamilton Township

Photo by Tim Brill Tim by Photo will retain its rural character, thanks to the preservation of a property once proposed for a cemetery and mausoleum.

Nineteen acres at the edge of the North Crosswicks village historic district in Hamilton Township, once

proposed for a cemetery and mausoleums, are now permanently preserved open space. New Jersey

Conservation Foundation and its partners – Save Hamilton Open Space, North Crosswicks Friends of Open

Space, the state Green Acres Program, Mercer County and Hamilton Township – joined together to preserve

that property and a nearby 13-acre parcel. 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 13

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 13

This property, which has wetlands and steep slopes, is a bald eagle foraging area and will be kept in its natural state to protect wildlife. Photo by Robin Horn Robin by Photo

The 19-acre property fronts on In recent years, New Jersey including the 149-acre Princeton Research both South Broad Street and Crosswicks- Conservation Foundation and its partners, property, the 62-acre Barry Black property, Hamilton Square Road, and is nearly including Hamilton Township, have the 58-acre Vaishnav property and the surrounded by preserved farmland and preserved several properties in the 21-acre Linda Black farm. open space. It will be used for passive township’s rural southeast corner, public recreation such as hiking, bird watching and nature observation. Agricultural practices that create grassland bird habitat will continue on a section of the property that has been farmed for hundreds of years. As part of a package deal with the Diocese of Trenton, the purchase includes a nearby 13-acre lot with frontage along Doctors Creek. This property, which has wetlands and steep slopes, is a bald eagle foraging area and will be kept in its natural state to protect wildlife. In January 2016, the Hamilton Township Zoning Board of Adjustment denied a variance request by the Diocese of Trenton for a cemetery with 5,500 burial plots and three mausoleums. Following the zoning board’s decision, NJ Conservation approached the Diocese about selling the land. The property proposed for the cemetery is now owned by Save Hamilton Open Space, although plans are for it to be ultimately owned and managed by the North Crosswicks Friends of Open Space. The land along Doctors Creek is now owned and managed by the township. Funding for the project came from a Green Acres grant to Save Hamilton Open Space, Mercer County, a North Crosswicks Friends of Open Space grant and private donations. 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 14

14 | New Jersey Conservation Foundation Remembering Brendan Byrne, our Honorary Trustee

FORMER GOVERNOR LED THE CHARGE TO SAVE PINE BARRENS Governor Brendan Byrne signs the Pinelands Protection Act in 1979.

IN JANUARY 1978, THEN-GOVERNOR BRENDAN BYRNE STOOD BEFORE THE NEW JERSEY LEGISLATURE TO CHAMPION A CAUSE THAT WOULD WIN HIM NO POLITICAL POINTS: THE PRESERVATION OF THE PINE BARRENS.

“It’s a politically unpopular issue – trees remembered for. And I said the Pinelands,” always there for us, and we intend to always don’t vote,” he said in his State of the State Byrne recounted at a be here for him, battling for the Pinelands.” address. However, Governor Byrne added, forum in 1987. Governor Byrne’s environmental legacy he would not be “dissuaded by the pressures It all started with a book: “The Pine spread beyond the Pine Barrens. to develop the Pine Barrens.” Barrens” by John McPhee, published in 1968. Last year, Governor Byrne joined former He kept his promise, and over a million “The Pine Barrens” eloquently described Governors Kean, Whitman, and Florio, along acres of ecologically-sensitive land sitting the region’s history, natural wonders and with former Assemblywoman Maureen upon a vast underground freshwater aquifer people – as well as grandiose plans for a large, Ogden and former Congressman Rush Holt – were safeguarded in 1979 by the Pinelands new city. McPhee was pessimistic about the to promote a set of “Principles to Protect Protection Act, which also established the region remaining a near-wilderness, predict- our Public Lands, Water, Air and Wildlife” Pinelands Commission and Comprehensive ing that it was “headed slowly toward to encourage the New Jersey Congressional Management Plan. extinction” due to a lack of political will. delegation to defend the environment Governor Byrne, who served as an Governor Byrne took his message as in Washington. Honorary Trustee for NJ Conservation a challenge. Later, he would recall that The four former governors also came Foundation, passed away on January 4 at the Pinelands Act was “on no political together in 2015 to prevent a high-rise the age of 93. He is remembered for many party’s agenda.” corporate headquarters from being built things but saving the Pine Barrens was his Preserving the Pinelands was on the along the Hudson River Palisades. Their most treasured legacy, the accomplishment agenda of New Jersey conservation groups advocacy helped achieve a compromise with of which he was most proud. since 1965. In the early 70s, NJ Conservation LG Electronics North America for a lower “When I had the last word leaving Foundation worked with the Pine Barrens building with less visual impact on the office, they asked me what I wanted to be Coalition to spearhead efforts that led to the Palisades. The effort also underscored the introduction and passage of federal legisla- need for permanent preservation. Brendan Byrne, left, chats with David tion to protect the region in 1978, and to “The Palisades are an outstanding Moore, our former executive director. Governor Byrne's groundbreaking achieve- national landmark which was at risk,” recalls ment. NJ Conservation later helped found Larry Rockefeller. “Governor Byrne, in the Pinelands Preservation Alliance. perhaps his final conservation ride, mounted Byrne was thanked for his crusade up with former Governors Whitman, Florio, in 2002, when then-Governor James E. and Kean to the rescue of the Palisades.” McGreevey renamed Lebanon State Forest Everyone hopes their lives will make a in the Pine Barrens in his honor. Brendan T. difference, but there are few like governor Byrne State Forest covers 37,242 acres in Brendan Byrne whose life created a legacy Burlington and Ocean counties. of great importance. “I think he was an extraordinary gover- “Brendan Byrne was one of the state’s nor,” said McGreevey. “What he did with the best governors, who will always be remem- Pinelands was the cusp of the environmental bered because without him we would not movement that swept across the nation.” have the Pinelands Preserve,” said former “Governor Byrne never stopped advocat- Governor . “I will miss him as a ing for the Pinelands in the face of all the good leader and a great friend.” challenges and threats he saw over the years, We extend our deepest condolences to including the current pipeline developments,” Governor Byrne’s wife, Ruthie, and the rest said Carleton Montgomery, director of the of his family. Pinelands Preservation Alliance. “He was 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 15

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 15

Remembering Former Trustee Sara Jane Gordon

Former New Jersey Conservation Foundation trustee Sara Jane Gordon of Short Hills, a dedicated conservationist and passionate gardener, passed away on Dec. 5, 2017 at the age of 85. Former Trustee Sara Jane Gordon

SJ, as she was affectionately known, the president of Zone 4. She cultivated SJ and her husband, Jerry, loved to served on our Board of Trustees for over 30 gardens of flowers, wildflowers and travel, going all over the world to visit years, including a term as vice president vegetables and was known for her gardens. They often returned from their in the early 1980s. She left the board in creative arrangements, particularly of travels inspired to redo their own land- 2007 but remained active, serving on the dried wild-flowers. In addition to winning scaping and flower beds, enlisting the committee that organized our 50th many local, state and national flower show help of their children. anniversary celebration in 2010. awards, she also served as a judge in many She was also a natural and competitive She was part of a land conservation flower shows. athlete - an avid tennis and paddle tennis “sister act,” serving on the board alongside “SJ was one of the most energetic player, runner and golfer – as well as an her sister, Kathryn Porter. and inspiring human beings I have ever ardent fan of the Philharmonic Known for her green thumb, SJ was a known, and she had a huge love and and The Metropolitan Opera. past president of the Short Hills Garden Club passion for nature,” said Michele Byers, We extend our deepest condolences to and served the Garden Clubs of America as executive director. SJ’s family and friends, and we will all miss SJ.

Remembering Pat Baxter

Pat Baxter of Madison, who served as New Jersey Conservation’s publications editor for over 25 years, passed away on Dec. 1, 2017

at the age of 87. Pat Baxter with companion George Aronson

Pat came to NJ Conservation in 1972 that had nothing to do with content. Pat also had a love for sports cars, after working for many years at the Newark Plenty of NJCF employees argued for their particularly her Karmann Ghia, Dave said. News. Among her many assignments were grammatical or wording point of view, Volkswagen produced the model until 1974, editing “Education for Survival,” a social including me, but few succeeded. She kept so it was considered a collector’s item studies and science curriculum we created a newspaper style of writing through her thereafter. “Her car was winter-stored on for the Madison public schools; our news- NJ Conservation Foundation tenure, which blocks in a garage, and driven only in warm letter, then known as “Footprints,” another bothered a few of us, but she was so prolific weather with no threat of rain,” he recalled. publication called the “Environmental and had such a capacity for work and “Pat only knew of two speeds for her Ghia, Bulletin,” as well as annual reports, the perfection that it was overlooked.” or for that matter any of her other cars: go weekly “State We’re In” column and the Pat retired from NJ Conservation and stop. And go was as fast as she dared. Association of New Jersey Environmental Foundation in 2000, the same year as Dave. Consequently, the NJ Conservation staff Commissions (ANJEC) newsletter. She was interested in opera, music and invariably found a way to avoid having Pat “Virtually no publication left the office dance, and became a major force at the drive them anywhere.” without her editorial scrutiny. She was very unitarian Fellowship in Morristown, where Pat is survived by her longtime compan- nearly perfect as an editor,” recalled Dave she ran the Fellowship Saturday Evening ion, George Aronson, a nature photographer Moore, former NJ Conservation Foundation Concert Series for 26 years, and was whose images graced NJ Conservation executive editor and Pat’s boss. “I can recall newsletter editor for many years. She was publications. Our deepest condolences to only one error that made it into print, and an avid traveler and lover of nature. George and all of Pat’s many friends. 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 16

16 | New Jersey Conservation Foundation

thank New Jersey Conservation Foundation welcomes new members and gratefully acknowledges donors who made contributions between you! September 2017 and December 2017. With your support, we will work hard to preserve and protect New Jersey's lands.

Barbara Frankel Sue Ellen Mikowski Tom unger Cornerstone Financial Group New Members Sherry Frawley Ann Moore June Verderosa Carolyn Barnes Coughlin (from September 2017 Anne C. Fritz Richard and Susan Morey John Violette CTW Foundation, Inc. to December 2017) Barbara Fusco Jeff and Barbara Morgan Mr. and Mrs. Michael Vogelius Thomas and Brenda Curnin Andrea Fuss Brian Mulcahy Mary Jane Walsh Paul N. Dackow Erik Anderson Christine Gallucci Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Mulligan Margaret A. Waters John and Margo Dana Mrs. G.G. Armstrong Diana Garibaldi The Philip and Tammy Murphy Barbara Wefing Lloyd and Sally Davis Edward and Judy Barbarito Edmund Gerber Family Foundation Donna Weiss Rev. Julia S. Dawson Jim and Carolyn Barnshaw David Goteiner Elsa S. New Heidi Wendel Mr. John P. de Neufville Mr. Christopher Barr and Jim Grady John F. O'Grady Carl White Anne M. DeBevoise Patricia Shanley Edward F. Gramlich Jane Oltmann Aaron and Julia Whitley William D. deCamp, Jr. Dorothy Cynthia Bartlett Gale and Bob Grossman Margaret L. O'Neill Michael Wildermuth Dr. Rosina B. and Mr. Richard Dixon Mary Bell James Growney Stephen Ordog Joni Wisniewski Catherine Dodge Gina Berg Cathryn M. Foster and Ashleigh Palmer Ms. Karen Witt Humphrey Doermann Jan Bisco-Werner Stephen J. Hagan Colleen Parker Susan yardley Wood Susan Dorward Carol Bishop David H. Hall Gary and Trudy Patterson Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Ms. Katherine V. Dresdner, Esq. Dean Blumetti Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Halsey Mr. Mark Pensiero Foundation John and Anne Duffy Carol Bodian Roseanne Harding Dr. Karl H. Perzin Karen yock Madelyn and Dennis Dunn Sandra Brescia Meg Harmsen Harry Pfaff Dale young Landis and Peter Eaton Joan Brickman Lisa Harvey-Cicione Otto Picard Susan and Lowell Edmunds Kathryn R. Brokke William Haskins Mr. Sharath Bhaskar Pillai Virginia Falconer Ms. Phyllis Ryan Brown Doris Heffernan Robert Posner Clem and Joanna Fiori Charlene Burke Stephen Heller Raven Potosky $500 and Above Chana R. Fitton and William A. Timpson Thomas Burtnett Frank Hess Dee Prucnel Members Fox Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hood Ms. Ellen Quinn (from September 2017 Austin and Gwen Fragomen Diane Bynum to December 2017) James Caffrey Kevin Inman Jean Rachofsky Frelinghuysen Foundation David Camiolo Ms. Nancy Issenman Paula Raimondo Jane Morton Galetto Robert W. Chapman Carol Jee Marilyn W. Rautio The 1772 Foundation, Inc. Christine Gallucci Ms. Carol Cherry Patricia Johnson Kriss Replogle Valerie B. Ackerman Bruce and Karin Gast Kathy Chiarella Jean S. Kahan Bill Reynolds Penelope Ayers The Gelfand Family Foundation, Inc. yolanda Cicetti Ms. Lisa Kaslow Ms. Sally E Rice Julie C. Baron Peter Gianetti Scott Clucas Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Katz Jean L. Rich Christopher Barr and Jim and Kathleen Gilbert Robert Cohen William Kennedy Robert and Carol Ritter Patricia Shanley Chad Goerner Christine Colahan MaryJo and Paul Kenny William N. Rogers Bassett Foundation Lynda Goldschein Catherine Collins Francis Khoury Kelly Rolston Jill A. Baxter Charles and Laurel Gould Robert D. Conley David Kissinger Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rooney The Howard Bayne Fund E.J. Grassmann Trust Michael Connolley Mr. John W. Klotz Judith Rosenthal Robert and Pamela Becker Neil Grossman and Nancy Wolff Jeanette and Hunter Corbin Adam Knight Diana Rosner Mary and Dick Benioff Stephen Charles Gruber Mary Croft Denise Kubaska Carole J. Rustako Gina Berg Cathryn M. Foster and Thomas Cuff Victoria Kulikowski Mark Safran Barbara and W. Michael Stephen J. Hagan Elissa Cullen Christina Lands Jaime and Zorina Santos Blumenthal The Halpern Family Foundation Jason Daras Cindy Lawlor Paul Sasso Mary Owen Borden Mr. and Mrs. Max Hansen Marisa DeSanto Colby Leffeld Marjorie A. Schmidt Memorial Foundation Louis and Gail Harris Darlene Devico Helen P. Lindsay Crystal Schneider Mr. and Mrs. James C. Brady, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Harvey, Jr. Meghan Doody Joseph Logan Louise Sellon Franta Broulik Gates and Mary Ellen Hawn John Doyle Michael Logan Shafer & Webb Family Trust Mr. and Dr. Thomas A. Brummer Doug and Susan Haynes William Dreisbach Tina Loock Suzanne L. Shannon The Charles E. and Edna T. Brundage Healey Family Foundation Mr. Roger L. Dreyling Alice Loonam Gregory Shast Foundation Pamela and Howard Hirsch Mary K. Enright Robert E. Loveland Ms. Deborah Shea Michele S. Byers The Hon. Rush D. Holt and Catherine Errico Marilyn A. Maguire Nancy Sierra Roger Byrom Dr. Margaret Lancefield Valerie Erwin Joseph Maraziti Scott Sillars Bradley M. Campbell and The Homestead Foundation, Inc. Patricia and Mark Esch Mary Ann Marinello Gerald Silverstein Katherine Hackl Albert and Diane Horner Margaret Esposito Eloise Marsh Michael Simonet Eleanor S. Campbell-Swank Jeffrey and Dawn Howell Dawn Ferguson Elizabeth Martin Joanne Solecki Lisa Caplan Caroline P. Huber Paul Ferguson Kelly A. Martin Arthur Sorensen Robert Carter Samuel G. Huber June Filipski Virginia Massa Karl Stehle Mrs. Catherine A. M. Cavanaugh Susan and Tod Hullin Joseph S. Filo Dennis Mayer K. Subramanian Ruth Charnes Hyde and Watson Foundation C. Elaine Finger Ms. Suzanne Bolan McCarthy Daniel Dignan Sweeney Dr. Theodore Chase and Independence Seaport Museum Virginia L Finley Sharlynn McGonigal and Allan Terres Mrs. Victory Chase John and Susan Jackson Marie Fitzgerald Robert B. Spille Mark Thoman Chris Chickering Peter W. Jewell Debra Flagg J.G. and M.J. McIntosh Pat Tillisch Mrs. Sally Chubb Christy Johnson Anne Fleisher Robert McLean Foundation Trust Ms. Edy M. Toussaint Church & Dwight Co., Inc. Dr. Stephanie B. Jones James R. Florance Carl and Linda Mendez Deborah Troiani Jack and Ronnie Cimprich Mr. and Mrs. Peter Kellogg Russell Forte Thomas Messineo Leslie unger Michael Connolley Peter R. and Cynthia K. Kellogg Foundation 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 17

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 17

The Kirk Kellogg Foundation River Branch Foundation William and Elizabeth Wolfe Mrs. Catherine A. M. Cavanaugh Edward and Margaret Kelly Laurance S. Rockefeller, Jr. Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Lucy A. Chubb Tributes F. M. Kirby Foundation Rockefeller Family Fund Foundation Alice E. Corjescu (from September 2017 Carol M. Kleis and Rex A. Parker Kevin and Patricia Rohane Mr. James P. Wyse and Helen Dieterly to December 2017) Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth H. Klipstein, II Samantha Rothman and Dr. Elizabeth Garcia Dr. Rosina B. and Dan and Gail Kopp John Hankin Aili Liu and Bo Xing Mr. Richard Dixon Fred Bartenstein The Koven Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Michael E. Rothpletz H. Steve yanai Humphrey Doermann Daniel E. Murnick William Kurtz Ryan Automotive, LLC Lee and John yeash Catherine Errico Theresa Joy Lanuto Louisa Sargent Beth yingling Valerie Erwin Michele S. Byers The Leavens Foundation, Inc. Douglas M. Schleifer and Todd Zimmerman and Laurie Volk William and Constance Francesco and Annette Colbertaldo Joseph and Jennifer Lemond Maureen M. Smyth Fortenbaugh Dr. and Mrs. Robert A. Lewis Mrs. Elizabeth Schmid Mr. and Mrs. A. Crowin Frost Anita and Jeffrey Liebman Mrs. Nancy Z. Schreyer Mr. W. Preston and Beryl Doyle Richard and Elizabeth Lilleston Bruce and Sara Schundler Memorials Ms. Ann H. Granbery Ms. Lois K. Stewart (from September 2017 Losam Fund Jeff and Mary Louise Shafer to December 2017) Thomas and Olga Hance The Luckow Family Foundation, Inc. Ann E. Silverman Gates and Mary Ellen Hawn John Dunphy Alexandra A. Manning Robert W. Simpson Jesse Higgins Jennifer Jones Edward and Mary Lynn Marra Sandra L. Simpson Eva S. Beekman Caroline P. Huber Helen & William Mazer Foundation Mary Reinhart Stackhouse Ms. Nancy B. Carringer John and Susan Jackson Jeanne Eisele The Curtis W. McGraw Foundation Foundation Sandra Jakubowski Doris F. Forshner Robert McLean Foundation Trust Paul W. Steinbeiser Richardson Buist Lorine and James Jen Scott and Hella McVay Hunt and Margaret Stockwell Jean Buist Earle Mrs. Valerie Kent Louise H. and Bill Flemer IV Robert W. Messerschmidt Patricia Stover Karen Lavallen Louise Gross Mr. and Mrs. Ricardo A. Mestres, Jr. Janice Summers K. Philip Dresdner William Lester The Hon. Joseph H. Metelski Eric and Patsi Sumner Michele S. Byers Mrs. Margaret B. McMath Ed Pfeiffer Kenneth Meyers Susan and Thompson Swayne Ms. Katherine V. Dresdner, Esq. Mr. and Mrs. Ricardo A. Carol Lynn Pfeiffer Thomas D. Michalenko Richard and Laura Szwak Mestres, Jr. David and Mary Moore Mr. Pete Taft and S.J. Gordon Elaine and John Mulhern Robert J. and Barbara B. Wolfe Wilhelmina B. Moyer Ms. Mara Connolly Michele S. Byers Mrs. Langdon Palmer Betsy H. Burgess Kurt Munkacsi and Nancy Jeffries Taft Communications Kathryn A. and James M. Porter Kathryn A. and James M. Porter John T. Burgess Janet and Daniel E. Murnick Chuck and Ravenna Taylor Hilary Prouty The Philip and Tammy Murphy Marianne Teetsel and Hanssler Family Vera Reybitz Susan W. Lauffer and Donald E. Lauffer Family Foundation Robert Jacobs Dr. Ingeborg D. Bossert Mary Ann Sarni William and Elizabeth Wolfe Normandy Real Estate Partners Tewksbury Trail Association Shafer & Webb Family Trust The Hon. Maureen Ogden Ted and Penny Thomas Edward Meharg Linda Smith Clients of Ronald Berlin Architect, PC: Ashleigh Palmer W. Bryce Thompson Foundation Dr. and Mrs. Wendy and Alex and Sally uhle Alastair Binnie & Zoe Brookes Virginia Dwan Margaret H. Parker Michael Dawson and Sean Cleary Tom Woelper Achilles & Jennifer Paparsenos Mr. Stephen W. Parker and Robert Tomaselli Dr. and Mrs. John Wunderlich Kian Esteghamat & Amy Craft Dr. Elizabeth Parker The John Tyler Foundation Gordon A. Millspaugh Claire Roberts Gary and Trudy Patterson union Foundation Thelma Achenbach Glenna R. Simpson Emily Mackie Henry S. Patterson, III Victoria Foundation, Inc. Gregory Adey David A. Burchett, Jr. Colleen Goggins The William Penn Foundation Mr. John R. Weingart and Mr. and Mrs. Graham Kathleen Crawford James Baxter Carol Lynn and Edward Pfeiffer Dr. Deborah Spitalnik Argent-Belcher Lou Ann Eader Peter and Linda Sciarra Kathryn A. and James M. Porter James and Virginia Welch Giorgio and Simona Balzer Wendy Jegla ulrich Frevert Dr. and Mrs. Stanley T. Praiss Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Grosvenor Blair Amy T. Ko Ronald Berlin Princeton Hydro Heidi Wendel Mr. and Mrs. William C. Blanchard Robert W. Simpson Leslie and Eileen Quick Michael J. White Susan B. Boyle Dr. Melissa S. Tassinari David Rago Auction, Inc. Edith and Thomas Williams Mr. William D. Bruen, Jr. John S. and Leslie V. Reed Louise and Cliff Wilson Michele S. Byers Esther yanai L. Keith and Lisa Reed Bob and Barbara Wolfe Robertjoin Carter H. Steve yanai NEW JERSEY CONSERVATION FOUNDATION!

Whether it’s farmland, woodland But we can’t do it alone. As a private, not-for-profit or wetland, New Jersey Conservation We need members organization, we rely on donations Foundation protects open spaces to help us save lands at risk. from members who care about preserv- in your towns, cities and the places ing New Jersey’s precious land and you love to visit. resources for future generations. Help keep nature in New Jersey! Join New Jersey Conservation Foundation to preserve land and natural resources. BECOME A MEMBER TODAY. Visit our website at www.njconservation.org/join.htm 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 18

register Questions? Email Bill Lynch at Dates and times are subject to change, and there may be additional programs [email protected] added throughout the year. For a full list of programs and details, please today! or call 908-997-0725 check our website at www.njconservation.org/events

Saturday, April 21 Friday, June 22 Wednesday, October 10 9:30-11:30 a.m. FPP 9:30-11:30 a.m. BB 8-10 a.m. BB Forest Bathing in the Pines Early Summer Butterflies with NABA Autumn Migration Bird Walk: Heading South Wednesday, May 2 Friday, July 2 8-10 a.m. BB 9:30-11:30 a.m. BB Wednesday, October 17 Spring Migration Bird Walk: Mid-Summer Butterflies with NABA 8-10 a.m. BB Meadows & Edges Autumn Migration Bird Walk: Saturday, July 21 Searching for Sparrows Wednesday, May 9 8-11 p.m. FPP 8-10 a.m. BB Moth Night Saturday, November 17 Spring Migration Bird Walk: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. FPP Forest Interior Friday, August 10 Wild for a Day! Kids Program 9:30-11:30 a.m. BB Wednesday, May 16 Late Summer Butterflies with NABA 8-10 a.m. BB KEY Spring Migration Bird Walk: Wednesday, September 12 BB Bamboo Brook Outdoor Education Center Birding By Ear 8-10 a.m. BB FPP Franklin Parker Preserve Autumn Migration Bird Walk: NABA North American Butterfly Association Wayward Warblers Volunteer Skye Craig creating research database

At nearly 18 square miles, the Franklin Parker scientists who have studied the preserve to procure Preserve in the Pine Barrens is a Noah’s Ark of copies of their work for our permanent archives. “We are trying to compile an organized folder of biodiversity. The preserve’s pristine forests, all the wonderful work done at Franklin Parker wetlands, rivers and reservoirs are home to Preserve so that it may be accessible and presentable many rare plants and animals. for everyone to see,” explained Skye. Skye currently works as an associate at a One “species” often sighted at the preserve is the mental health facility and an evidence clerk at a police research scientist! Since the land was preserved 15 department, but her true passion is the environment. years ago, researchers have studied everything from “In my free time I enjoy just being out in nature and insects to rare plants to endangered snakes to the enjoying all that it has to offer,” she said. effects of prescribed fires. In addition to volunteering for New Jersey Thanks to the efforts of volunteer Skye Craig, Conservation Foundation, Skye also volunteers with we’re now getting a comprehensive database of Volunteer Skye Craig cares Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge to help rehabili- for a flying squirrel at the Cedar scientific studies conducted at the preserve. Skye, 24, tate injured animals, and is helping the Creek Springhill Run Wildlife Refuge animal a resident of Shamong Township and a recent graduate Brook Watershed Association with grant proposals. hospital in the Pine Barrens. of Wilmington College, has been contacting research Thank you, Skye! 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 19

New Jersey Conservation Foundation | 19 Welcome New Trustees Staff Finn Caspersen and Michele S. Byers, Executive Director

Erica Arles, Administrative Assistant, Lee Yeash Land Acquisition & Stewardship ´ Alix Bacon, Regional Manager, Western Piedmont

Mark Barrick, Information Technology/Office Manager New Jersey Conservation Foundation welcomes Finn M.W. Caspersen Jr. of Bedminster and Lee Yeash of Lumberton to the Board of Trustees. Tim Brill, Central Jersey Project Manager Both are longtime conservationists who enjoy the outdoors. Beth Davisson, Project Manager, Black River Greenway Justin Dennis, Camden Land Steward Finn grew up playing in the woods and fields of his family’s farm in Emile DeVito, Ph.D, Manager of Science & Stewardship Andover, Sussex County. He has always loved to hike, starting with boyhood trips Wilma Frey, Senior Policy Manager to New Hampshire and continuing more recently with his wife, Emily, and their Jane Gardner, Campaign Project Assistant four children. He credits his interest in conservation to his maternal grandmother, Tom Gilbert, Campaign Director – Energy, Climate & Natural Resources Eleanor Morris, founder of a land trust in Pennsylvania. In addition, his mother, Barbara Caspersen, and uncle, Cooper Morris, served on the NJ Conservation Olivia Glenn, South Jersey Regional Manager board in the 1980s and early 1990s. Amy Hansen, Policy Analyst While serving on Maria Hauser, Personnel Manager/Executive Assistant the Bedminster Township Committee, Finn was active Steven Jack, Associate Land Steward in preserving open space Russell Juelg, Senior Land Steward and farmland – frequently William Lynch, Assistant Director, Education Programs in partnership with NJ & Communications Conservation. He was also Lisa MacCollum, Assistant Director of Land Acquisition a strong proponent of Bedminster’s open space Kelly Martin, Development Associate tax, used to fund land Alison Mitchell, Director of Policy

acquisition. Stephanie Monahan, Pine Barrens Regional Manager Lee, an avid hiker, kayak Finn M.W. Caspersen Jr. paddler and camper, works as Timothy Morris, Director of Stewardship a naturalist and educator at the Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge and Hospital in Medford, Marie Newell, Project Coordinator, Acquisition teaching the public about the native plants and animals of the Pine Barrens. A former Tanya Nolte, GIS Manager registered nurse and preschool teacher, she began volunteering six years ago to help Sandy Stuart Perry, Staff Writer sick and injured animals at the refuge’s hospital. Her volunteer work led to a paid educator position. Francis Rapa, Regional Manager, When she’s not teaching, Lee enjoys hiking with her husband, John, and Delaware Bay Watershed their black lab at NJ Conservation’s preserves, especially the Franklin Parker Karen Richards, CPA, Director of Finance & Administration Preserve and Michael Heidi Marie Roldan, Corporate & Foundation Huber Prairie Warbler Relations Manager

Preserve in the Pine Greg Romano, Assistant Director & Barrens. Lee and John are Director of Statewide Land Acquisition the parents of four grown Gerard Sauchelli, Associate Land Steward children. Lee’s love of hiking Susan Schmidt, Administrative Assistant/Receptionist also led her to volunteer Bill Scullion, Land Steward, South Jersey

with the Pinelands Laura Szwak, Director of Outreach & Education Preservation Alliance to Ingrid Vandegaer, Manager, Highlands Region clean up trash and litter in Pine Barrens forests, Kathleen Ward, Director of Development & Communications and work to put a stop to Lee yeash with Apollo the turkey vulture, an “animal illegal off-road vehicle use. ambassador” at the Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge Allison Williams, Easement Steward 24594_Spring_2018-C.qxp_Layout 1 3/14/18 10:32 AM Page 20

NEW JERSEy CONSERVATION FOuNDATION Bamboo Brook | 170 Longview Road | Far Hills, NJ 07931 www.njconservation.org

Join Our E-mail List We’d like to have your e-mail address so we can keep you updated on New Jersey Conservation Foundation news, programs and events. Please send your e-mail address to [email protected] or call 1-888-LANDSAVE (1-888-526-3728).