Nature Done Wright

I am a big fan of the Lorrimer Sanctuary in Franklin Lakes, and thought I'd pass along this great news from New Jersey Audubon.

NJ Audubon’s Lorrimer Sanctuary Growing for the Community

Updates offer increased public access to environmental and nature-based programming.

Bernardsville, NJ (February 18, 2025)– New Jersey Audubon is pleased to announce rehabilitation of its oldest nature center. New Jersey Audubon has partnered with Architect Tom Ashbahian and Tommac Construction – both well-respected local firms – to renovate the Lorrimer Sanctuary in Franklin Lakes, NJ in anticipation of its 70^th anniversary. 

The objective is to modernize the building while retaining its historical character and creating a more inviting program space. Modifications will improve accessibility, upgrade technology, modernize restrooms and office space, and enhance public space. Overall, our aspiration is to bring additional value to local and surrounding communities by allowing an expansion of its programmatic reach.

We are especially thrilled to announce a $500,000 anonymous pledge to New Jersey Audubon for the Lorrimer renovation and expansion project. This is the second leadership gift made from this generous donor bringing their total pledged gift to $1 million to name the new expanded classroom “In Honor of Tom Gilmore.”

Combined with funding from other key donors, including a leadership gift from the Winifred M. and George P. Pitkin Foundation, to date, the project has raised $2.1 million. With this outpouring of generosity, New Jersey Audubon can complete the rehabilitation and envision a modest expansion. New Jersey Audubon is reinvesting in its core nature centers to enhance our capacity to inspire and empower people to care for nature.

 “We are excited to be able to give back to the community that has supported the Lorrimer Sanctuary since its inception nearly 70 years ago,” stated Alex Ireland, president, and CEO of NJ Audubon. “This project will allow more people to enjoy our facility and grounds, learning about all that nature has to offer. “

Lorrimer Sanctuary consists of fourteen wooded acres of trails, quiet spaces, bird feeders’ section, gardens and a visitor center consisting of a gift shop and education room. The grounds consist mostly of second-growth woods made up of oak, maple, ash, and beech trees with small stands of planted evergreens. Trails are open daily dawn to dusk.

“Lorrimer Sanctuary has been serving our community since 1956 so we are so excited to breathe new life into our physical spaces so that we can continue to develop our wonderful programs and environmental outreach. We are thrilled to be collaborating with Tom as we navigate updating this beautiful historic home into a world class environmental center,”  said Alexa Fantacone, Lorrimer Sanctuary director.