Nature Done Wright

I am pleased to be part of the free Zoom presentations on The Nature Conservancy's five flagship New Jersey preserves.

All these places are definitely worth a visit!

High Mountain Park Preserve, Thursday, 1 p.m., 8/13 (Host: Jim Wright)

An oasis of habitat for wildlife amidst an urban landscape, 1,260-acre High Mountain in Passaic County offers unparalleled opportunities for hikers and other nature lovers. The site’s rolling topography includes waterfalls, rare ferns and ancient rock shelters, with panoramic views of northern NJ and the NYC skyline at its summit. We will walk you through the preserve’s extraordinary history, natural features and 11.6 miles of trails in preparation for seeing it in person. (Photo above taken with the help of LightHawk.)

https://www.facebook.com/events/330118748369119/

https://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcode2grTotH9X9zvyBvQqcYoMPFmvpdt_H

South Cape May Meadows, Thursday, 8/20 (Hosts: Damon Noe/Lily Mullock)
Birds and beach are hallmarks of this 200+ acre success story along the Atlantic Ocean in Cape May. Learn the site’s history, from nearly sinking into the ocean decades ago to welcoming wildlife and providing community flooding protection after a full natural restoration in 2007. We’ll take a look at the many species that thrive at the preserve, as well as the innovative methods we use to control the marsh water levels and the suite of features visitors can enjoy, including flat walking trails, sandy beach, special bird viewing areas, a rain garden and more.

https://www.facebook.com/events/2439033893056106/

https://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJAqf-2rrjopG9GNrucxoxYbioqtqsdqXucW

Maurice River Bluffs, Thursday, 8/27 (Hosts: Damon Noe/Lily Mullock)

The 500 acres of this Millville green space have something for everyone, starting with incredible views of the Maurice River from the top of majestic bluffs. The preserve is crucial for migrating birds, dragonflies and unique plant communities (including wild rice!), but there is much for visitors to experience, including a floating dock, bird blind, pedestrian bridge, picnic areas and a dedicated 8-mile mountain bike trail. We will provide the interesting insight to maximize your visit to this history-steeped spot.

https://www.facebook.com/events/694097264653684/

https://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMocOmorjIpHNd3DiciangGnQ81KA43I_PZ

Johnsonburg Swamp Preserve, Thursday, 9/3 (Hosts: Scott Sherwood/Eric Olsen)

True New Jersey wilderness is evidenced at this ecological gem, where limestone forest and spring-fed wetlands support iconic wildlife like bobcat and black bear, waterfowl, amphibians and a host of rare plant species, including some that are carnivorous! We will discuss the preserve’s ecology, inhabitants and history, as well as itinerary options for visitors, including trails that wind through tree-canopied hills, rock outcroppings, meadows and grasslands, providing varied environments and easy to moderate hiking opportunities. The view from “High Rocks” is not to be missed!

https://www.facebook.com/events/793652904781206/

https://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcrcO2przspHdFuR-NLRQExtgjTrIBcryA1

Garrett Family Preserve @ Cape Island Creek, Thursday, 9/10 (Hosts: Damon Noe/Lily Mullock)
The ever-changing landscape at this preserve includes tidal salt marsh, canopied forest, successional fields and wildflower meadows that sustain birds, fish, crabs and an array of beneficial pollinators. Permanent easels and a poet’s trail at the site honor the namesake Garrett Family’s passion for art. We will explore preserve’s history, ecology and visitor-oriented amenities like four miles of flat trails, a shady gazebo, bird blind, insect hotel, working beehives and more. If there is time, we may even delve into why there is an old train on the property!

https://www.facebook.com/events/963450037440887/

https://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcoc-yvpjsvHNavhzXU5LPNAsjv9bt_-atd